Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they make for a perfect on-the-go treat.
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars combine the richness of chocolate with the crunch of nuts and the sweetness of natural ingredients. Perfect for a midday snack or a post-workout boost, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor with a satisfying crunch
- Nutritious ingredients that keep you energized
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy lifestyles
Health Benefits
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are not just a tasty treat; they are also packed with health benefits. The mixed nuts provide a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, which can help support heart health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, the rolled oats contribute dietary fiber, making these bars a satisfying snack that can help keep hunger at bay throughout the day.
Cocoa powder, a key ingredient in these bars, is rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress in the body. Dark chocolate chips also add a touch of indulgence while offering their own set of health benefits, including improved heart health and enhanced mood. These bars truly combine delicious flavors with nutritional advantages, ensuring that you can indulge without compromising your health.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a mid-afternoon energy boost, or a post-workout snack, these bars fit the bill perfectly. Their compact size makes them easy to pack in lunchboxes or take along for outdoor adventures.
Moreover, they are an excellent option for gatherings and parties. Simply cut the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces to create a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. With their rich chocolate flavor and satisfying crunch, they are sure to impress both health-conscious friends and chocolate lovers alike.
Storage and Meal Prep
One of the best things about these Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars is their easy storage and meal prep capabilities. Once cut, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to have a healthy snack readily available whenever cravings strike.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat that’s both nutritious and convenient, ensuring you always have a healthy option on hand, no matter the occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients well and prepare for the next steps!
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, cocoa powder, honey, nut butter, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly into an even layer.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars.
Enjoy your Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars as a delightful snack!
Ingredient Substitutions
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are highly customizable! If you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several ingredient substitutions you can make. For example, if you're looking for a nut-free version, you can replace the mixed nuts with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This will still provide a great crunch and nutritional benefits without the allergens.
In addition, if you're looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener of your choice. Just remember to adjust the quantity as needed, as some sweeteners are sweeter than honey. This flexibility makes it easy for anyone to enjoy these delicious bars while catering to their dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your snacking experience, consider pairing these Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars with a serving of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. This combination adds a refreshing element and boosts the nutritional profile of your snack. For an extra indulgence, try warming the bars slightly and serving them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a drizzle of additional melted dark chocolate.
These bars also work wonderfully as a base for your own creations. Feel free to sprinkle some shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried fruits on top for added flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a truly personalized snack that suits your taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or seeds.
→ Is there a vegan option?
Yes, you can use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a plant-based nut butter.
→ How do I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.
Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars
These Healthy Chocolate Nut Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they make for a perfect on-the-go treat.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, cocoa powder, honey, nut butter, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly into an even layer.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 6g