These Dark Chocolate Cherry Nut Bars are a delightful and healthy treat perfect for any time of day. You can easily make these wholesome bars that are packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients. They are a fantastic option when you’re looking for healthy bars that satisfy your sweet cravings without guilt.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant. Gluten-free oats work well if needed.
- Almond Butter: Any nut butter like cashew or peanut butter can be substituted. Ensure it’s natural with minimal added sugar.
- Dried Cherries: Cranberries or chopped dried apricots are good alternatives.
- Dark Chocolate: Choose chocolate with 70% cacao or higher for the best flavor and health benefits.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped almonds (or your favorite nuts)
- ½ cup dried cherries
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (or finely chopped dark chocolate)
- ½ cup natural almond butter
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to remove your healthy bars later. You’ll thank yourself for this simple step.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, dried cherries, and dark chocolate chips. Stir these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite of your healthy bars has a good mix.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the binder for your delicious healthy bars.
4. Combine All Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredient mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or your hands until all the dry ingredients are fully coated. You want a sticky, uniform mixture for your healthy bars.
5. Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Press it down very firmly and evenly across the bottom of the pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands, ensure it’s tightly packed for solid healthy bars.
6. Bake the Bars
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as this can make your healthy bars too dry.
7. Cool and Cut
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Once fully cooled, cut them into 12 even bars. Patience here leads to perfectly shaped healthy bars.
Variation Ideas
- Nutty Twist: Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds.
- Fruity Fun: Swap dried cherries for blueberries or cranberries.
- Seed Boost: Add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrients.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth.
- Citrus Zest: Include a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store your Dark Chocolate Cherry Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. If frozen, thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Do I have to bake these healthy bars?
Baking helps the bars hold their shape better and enhances the flavor of the oats and nuts.
Can I use a different sweetener?
You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar in equal amounts.
How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?
Press the mixture very firmly into the pan before baking. Cooling completely before cutting is also crucial.
Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! These healthy bars make a great grab-and-go breakfast or a nutritious snack.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the pan well, but parchment paper makes removal much easier and cleaner.