Chocolate Fruit & Nut Granola Bars
Introduction
These no-bake chocolate fruit and nut granola bars are a wholesome and delicious snack that blends chewy dried fruits, crunchy oats, and a smooth layer of chocolate. They are perfect for breakfast on the go, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a healthier sweet treat.
Ingredients
• 2 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (apricots, raisins, cranberries, or dates)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• ½ cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1 ½ cups dark or milk chocolate (for topping)
Instructions
Lightly toast the oats in a pan or oven until golden for extra flavor. In a saucepan, melt honey, nut butter, and coconut oil until smooth, then stir in vanilla and salt.
Add oats, dried fruits, and nuts, mixing well until everything is evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into a lined baking dish. Melt chocolate and spread it evenly over the top. Chill in the refrigerator until set, then cut into bars.
How to Make
Start by preparing the oat and nut base, binding it together with a warm honey and nut butter mixture. Add in dried fruits for natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Once pressed firmly into a dish, cover with a smooth chocolate layer, let it set, and slice into neat bars for a perfect grab-and-go snack.
Variations
Swap the dried fruits with figs, cherries, or blueberries for different flavors. Use white chocolate or a drizzle of both white and dark for a marbled effect.
Add seeds like pumpkin, chia, or sunflower for extra crunch and nutrition. For a tropical twist, mix in dried pineapple, coconut flakes, and cashews.
Tips
Press the mixture firmly to help bars hold their shape. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing for clean cuts. Store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh longer. Use parchment paper for easy removal from the pan.
Conclusion
These homemade chocolate fruit and nut granola bars are simple, nutritious, and versatile. With endless flavor combinations, they make a tasty and energizing snack for any time of day.