Description
These Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars are the perfect combination of rich, indulgent chocolate and wholesome dried fruits and crunchy nuts. Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, these bars are an easy and satisfying snack, perfect for an energy boost on-the-go or a healthy dessert. Whether you need a pre-workout snack or a treat to curb your sweet tooth, these bars are a delicious and nutritious choice.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter option)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins, apricots, or any dried fruit of choice)
- 1/2 cup unsalted almonds, chopped (or any nuts like walnuts, cashews, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, for balancing sweetness)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (double boiler method).
- Prepare the Fruit and Nuts:
- While the chocolate is melting, prepare your fruit and nuts. Chop the dried cranberries (or other fruit), almonds, and any other nuts you’re using into smaller pieces to make them easier to bite into.
- If you’re using sunflower seeds and shredded coconut, have them ready as well.
- Mix Everything Together:
- In a large bowl, combine the melted chocolate, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, and any optional ingredients (like honey or vanilla extract). Stir until everything is evenly coated in the melted chocolate.
- Form the Bars:
- Line a small baking dish (8×8-inch or similar) with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Press down gently to compact the mixture, ensuring it sticks together.
- Set the Bars:
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1-2 hours or until it has completely set and hardened. If you’re in a rush, you can also freeze it for 30 minutes for quicker results.
- Cut into Bars:
- Once set, remove the chocolate mixture from the fridge or freezer and lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper.
- Cut it into bars or squares using a sharp knife.
- Serve and Store:
- Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- They can also be individually wrapped for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the type of nuts and dried fruits based on your personal preferences. You can add raisins, apricots, pecans, or walnuts for a variety of textures and flavors.
- For a vegan version, ensure you’re using dairy-free chocolate and maple syrup.
- You can make these bars as sweet or as rich as you like by adjusting the amount of honey or sweetener.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1-2 hours
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American