Description
These decadent Dark Chocolate Bars combine toasted nuts, puffed rice, and a hint of brown rice syrup, all topped with rich melted dark chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky salt. Perfectly crunchy and sweet, these bars make a delightful homemade treat that’s sure to satisfy chocolate lovers while providing a satisfying nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Nuts and Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup cashews
- 3/4 cup peanuts
- 1 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup puffed rice
Syrup and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup brown rice syrup
- 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- Optional: flaky salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Nuts: Preheat your oven to 325˚F (160˚C). Spread the mixed nuts evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 5-8 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Mix Nuts and Puffed Rice: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted nuts and puffed rice. Toss thoroughly to blend the ingredients evenly.
- Warm Syrup and Combine: Place the brown rice syrup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds to loosen it. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until fully integrated, then pour this mixture over the nut and rice mixture. Stir well to coat every piece evenly.
- Press and Bake: Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared pan and press it down evenly to form a compact layer. Bake this mixture in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes to set and slightly caramelize the syrup.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the baked mixture from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board, cut in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 5-6 thin bars. Allow the bars to cool completely to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Coat Bars with Chocolate: Dip the bottom of each cooled bar into the melted chocolate, then place the bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle more melted chocolate over the top of each bar and sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated bars until the chocolate is completely set and firm. Enjoy your homemade dark chocolate nut bars as a delicious snack or dessert!
Notes
- Use any combination of your favorite unsalted nuts for customization.
- Brown rice syrup provides a natural, mild sweetness; substitute with honey or maple syrup if preferred.
- Ensure to toast nuts lightly to bring out their flavor without burning.
- Keep an eye on the chocolate while melting to avoid scorching.
- Flaky salt is optional but adds a great contrast to the sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American