Craving a deliciously addictive snack that's both nutritious and decadent? Get ready to discover the ultimate Chocolate Trail Mix Bars that will transform your snacking experience! These homemade bars are the perfect blend of crunchy nuts, chewy oats, and rich dark chocolate - a treat so irresistible, you'll want to make them again and again. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a guilt-free dessert, these bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup nut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by measuring out all components carefully: rolled oats, nut butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, mixed nuts, and dried fruit.
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, warm the nut butter and honey together for 30-45 seconds, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Add the rolled oats to the warm nut butter mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure all oats are evenly coated.
- Fold in the mixed nuts and dried fruit, mixing gently but completely throughout the oat mixture.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl, heating in 15-second intervals and stirring between each to prevent burning.
- Pour half the oat mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the first layer, then top with remaining oat mixture, pressing down gently but firmly.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to allow them to set completely.
- Once set, lift the bars out using parchment paper edges and cut into 12 even rectangles.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate chips.
- Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to customize your bars.
- Make sure to press the layers firmly to help the bars hold together.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey or nut butter.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat edges.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain their firm texture and freshness.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
