Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
Highlighted under: Golden Ideas
I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars for a quick snack or a delightful dessert! These bars combine the creamy richness of hazelnuts with the deep flavor of chocolate, creating a delicious treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. I find that they’re incredibly easy to whip up, and they make for an excellent post-workout snack or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, the wholesome oats provide a fantastic base that makes them filling without being overly indulgent. You'll want to keep this recipe on hand for any occasion!
When I first tried making these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars, I could hardly believe how easy they were! The combination of oats, hazelnuts, and dark chocolate creates a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that I can't resist. The secret lies in toasting the hazelnuts just before blending; it really elevates the nutty flavor and offers a rich aroma throughout the preparation.
I also love how versatile these bars are. Sometimes, I sprinkle in a bit of sea salt or add a dash of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. They last in the fridge for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep. Trust me, you and your family will be reaching for these bars daily!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
- Wholesome oats create a satisfying and nutritious treat
- Perfectly sweetened and easy to make in under 30 minutes
- Ideal for meal prepping for snacks or breakfast on the go
Making the Most of Your Ingredients
The beauty of these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars lies in their simplicity, but the quality of your ingredients can significantly elevate the final product. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips, as they will add a deep, rich flavor that plays beautifully against the nuttiness of the hazelnuts. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying flavored chocolate chips, such as espresso or orange, to introduce a unique twist to the bars.
When choosing your hazelnuts, look for fresh nuts that are firm and have a pleasant aroma. Toasting them enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the bars. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool before chopping to avoid uneven pieces and ensure a great texture in every bite.
Perfecting the Texture
Getting the right texture for your oat bars is crucial. The mixture should be wet enough to hold together but not overly sticky. If you find it too dry, add a splash more almond butter or a teaspoon of water until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, a small handful of extra oats can balance it out, ensuring that the bars hold their shape without falling apart.
After pressing the mixture firmly into the pan, refrigerate it for at least one hour. This chilling time is essential for the bars to set properly. You’ll know they’re ready to cut when they feel firm to the touch and hold their shape when you gently press against them. If you're in a rush, you can place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes instead.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix and ensure all ingredients are well combined before pressing into the prepared pan.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, dark chocolate chips, honey, almond butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
Press into the Pan
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to ensure it's packed tightly.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour until firm, then lift out and cut into squares.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- Tope your bars with a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars store beautifully in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life, approximately 10-14 days. For added convenience, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This makes for easy, on-the-go snacks anytime!
When serving these bars, consider drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance both flavor and presentation. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of almond milk for a satisfying breakfast or a special afternoon treat. For an added boost, try adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal to the mixture for a nutrition upgrade.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different nut butters for a unique spin on the flavor profile. Cashew butter or tahini can provide a different taste dimension, while also being a great option for those with almond allergies. Additionally, swapping out a portion of the oats for puffed rice can give the bars a lighter, crunchier texture without compromising their integrity.
If you're looking to boost the nutrition further, consider mixing in some dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots. They lend a sweet chewiness that contrasts with the crunchy hazelnuts and will add a pleasant fruitiness to each bite. Just be sure not to overload the mixture; about a half-cup should do the trick without affecting the bar's structure.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, you can substitute with almonds, walnuts, or any nut of your choice.
→ How should I store the oat bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
→ Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup and any nut butter to keep them vegan-friendly.
→ What can I substitute for almond butter?
Cashew butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives.
Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars for a quick snack or a delightful dessert! These bars combine the creamy richness of hazelnuts with the deep flavor of chocolate, creating a delicious treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. I find that they’re incredibly easy to whip up, and they make for an excellent post-workout snack or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, the wholesome oats provide a fantastic base that makes them filling without being overly indulgent. You'll want to keep this recipe on hand for any occasion!
Created by: Adriana Whitaker
Recipe Type: Golden Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, dark chocolate chips, honey, almond butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to ensure it's packed tightly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour until firm, then lift out and cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- Tope your bars with a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g