Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars
Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking
Delight in these Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars that combine rich chocolate flavor with wholesome nuts for a nutritious snack.
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are perfect for a quick energy boost or a satisfying dessert. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are a guilt-free treat that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy nuts
- Nutritious and filling, perfect for on-the-go snacking
- Simple to make with minimal ingredients
The Benefits of Nuts
Nuts are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to your diet. These ingredients help promote heart health, support weight management, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. By incorporating mixed nuts into these chocolate bars, you can enjoy a snack that nourishes your body while satisfying your cravings.
Additionally, nuts are known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. This can lead to improved overall health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Enjoying a bar with a blend of these superfoods means you’re giving your body a powerful boost with every bite.
A Guilt-Free Indulgence
Many chocolate snacks are loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats, but these Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars offer a guilt-free alternative. Made with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and combined with nut butter, these bars provide a rich chocolate flavor without the excess calories. The cocoa powder adds a decadent taste while also delivering antioxidants that can enhance your mood and improve cognitive function.
By choosing wholesome ingredients, these bars not only satisfy your chocolate cravings but also keep you feeling full and energized. This makes them an ideal choice for a snack during busy days or as a post-workout treat.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are an excellent option for meal prepping, allowing you to have nutritious snacks ready for the week ahead. Simply prepare a batch, cut them into bars, and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week, making them a convenient choice for on-the-go lifestyles. You can easily grab one before heading out the door, ensuring you have a healthy option at your fingertips.
Moreover, these bars are incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seeds, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. This way, you can create a unique snack that suits your taste while making healthy choices.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Once you have all the ingredients, you can start making your bars!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
Cool and Cut
Allow to cool completely before lifting out of the dish and cutting into bars.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy chocolate nut bars!
Storage Tips
To keep your Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. This will not only keep them fresh longer but also provide a refreshing taste when enjoyed cold.
For longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it at room temperature or microwave it for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions
These bars can be enjoyed as they are, but you can also elevate your snacking experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Try pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of additional nut butter for added creaminess and protein. This combination makes for a delightful breakfast or snack that will keep you satisfied.
For a more indulgent treat, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the bars before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for an impressive presentation if you’re serving them to guests or at gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I replace the nuts with seeds?
Yes, you can substitute nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! You can use agave syrup or even coconut sugar as an alternative to honey or maple syrup.
→ Are these bars suitable for vegans?
Yes, if you use maple syrup and a plant-based nut butter, these bars can be completely vegan.
Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars
Delight in these Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars that combine rich chocolate flavor with wholesome nuts for a nutritious snack.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Holistic Healthy Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix together the honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
Allow to cool completely before lifting out of the dish and cutting into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g