Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a snack that’s as indulgent as it is wholesome, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. They bring together the richness of dark chocolate, the satisfying crunch of mixed nuts, and that irresistible hint of sea salt to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you need an energy boost mid-afternoon or a guilt-free dessert, these bars deliver on every level, making them a standout treat you’ll want to keep on hand at all times.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely key to making the magic happen. Each plays its own role in balancing taste, texture, and that gorgeous color that makes the Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars so inviting.
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans): Choose fresh nuts for the best crunch and flavor—feel free to toast them lightly to amplify their nuttiness.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa): Opt for high-quality chocolate for that deep, rich taste and glossy finish.
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup: This natural sweetener binds the bars while adding a gentle, floral sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping): The sea salt creates a beautiful contrast, making the chocolate and nuts truly pop.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
- 1 cup rolled oats: Oats lend a chewy texture and a hearty base that holds everything together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil: Adds smoothness to the melted chocolate and helps the bars set just right.
How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and come out cleanly, giving them the perfect shape and easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the dark chocolate chips with the coconut oil until smooth and glossy. This creamy mixture is the heart of your bars, knitting all the textures and flavors together.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of the melted chocolate. Stir everything together until the nuts and oats are completely coated in that luscious chocolate and sticky sweetness — this is what brings the bars’ chewy yet crunchy texture to life.
Step 4: Press and Drizzle
Press the mixture firmly into your prepared pan, making sure it’s evenly packed to avoid crumbly bars later. Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the top, adding a shiny, decadent finishing touch that also helps bind the surface.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and sending out a heavenly aroma. While they’re still warm, sprinkle extra sea salt across the top — this adds a beautiful seasoning standout and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles. This patience pays off with bars that hold together well and have that irresistible snap with each bite.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Garnishes
Sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top for an elegant finish that teases the palate. You could also add chopped toasted nuts or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate just before serving to elevate their appeal.
Side Dishes
These bars are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries to brighten the flavors. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte complements the richness and rounds out your snack or dessert perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming rustic look. You can even serve broken pieces in a decorative bowl alongside nuts and dried fruit for a shareable snack platter that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place the Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to one week. Keeping them accessible means you’ll always have a delightful snack whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to store them longer, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months and can be thawed easily by leaving them out at room temperature for about an hour.
Reheating
While these bars are delicious straight from the container, warming them slightly for 10-15 seconds in the microwave can revive the softness and enhance the flavor of the dark chocolate. Just be careful not to overheat, or they’ll become too melty!
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts in the Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with pistachios, walnuts, or even peanuts depending on your preference. Just keep the total amount the same to maintain the right texture and balance.
Is it possible to make these bars vegan?
Yes, to make them vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and double-check your dark chocolate is dairy-free. This adaptation keeps the bars completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
How long do the bars keep at room temperature?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars remain fresh for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.
Can I add dried fruits to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots add a lovely chewy contrast and a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the nuts and dark chocolate.
What is the best way to melt chocolate for this recipe?
Microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between is the easiest and safest method. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and coconut oil gently in a double boiler to ensure smoothness without burning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of rich dark chocolate, crunchy nuts, and the bold pop of sea salt in these bars. Once you try making these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars yourself, you’ll find they quickly become a beloved staple in your snacking routine. They’re simple, satisfying, and delicious enough to share — so go ahead and treat yourself to these little squares of happiness!
PrintDark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe
These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a perfect blend of rich 70% cocoa dark chocolate, crunchy mixed nuts, and a hint of sea salt for a decadent yet wholesome snack. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup and combined with rolled oats and coconut oil, these bars offer a satisfying texture and balanced flavor, ideal for an energy boost or a guilt-free treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Snack/Bar
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the bars.
- Melt Chocolate and Coconut Oil: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of the melted chocolate mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly coated.
- Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press firmly and evenly to create a compact layer.
- Drizzle Remaining Chocolate: Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate on top of the pressed mixture for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars turn golden brown around the edges.
- Finish with Sea Salt: As soon as the bars come out of the oven, sprinkle additional sea salt over the warm surface to enhance the flavor contrast.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Once cooled, cut into squares for serving.
Notes
- Toasting the nuts before mixing enhances their flavor and crunchiness.
- Feel free to experiment by adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Ensure bars are completely cooled before cutting to prevent crumbling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: dark chocolate nut bars, sea salt snacks, homemade energy bars, healthy chocolate bars, no-bake nut bars, honey sweetened bars