Description
These Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars are a delicious and versatile no-bake treat that combines rich dark chocolate with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and optional seeds and coconut. Perfect as a healthy snack or a sweet treat, they are easy to prepare and customizable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter option)
Fruit and Nuts
- 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)
Optional Add-ins
- 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:
Gently melt the dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and fully melted.
- Prepare the Fruit and Nuts:
Chop the unsalted almonds and any other chosen nuts into small pieces. Measure out dried cranberries or your dried fruit of choice.
- Prepare Optional Ingredients:
If using, have the sunflower seeds and shredded coconut ready to add. These ingredients add extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine the melted chocolate, dried fruit, chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt if using. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with chocolate.
- Form the Bars:
Pour the chocolate mixture into a prepared dish lined with parchment paper (an 8×8 inch square pan works well). Spread the mixture evenly using a spatula and press down gently to compact it, helping the bars stick together.
- Set the Bars:
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is firm and set.
- Cut into Bars:
Once set, remove the block from the dish using the parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
- Serve and Store:
Serve immediately or wrap bars individually for grab-and-go snacks. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- You can customize these bars by substituting any dried fruits or nuts you prefer.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey and choose vegan chocolate chips.
- Pressing the bars firmly helps them hold together better.
- Chilling time can be extended if you prefer firmer bars.
- These bars make for a great portable snack for kids and adults alike.
