These bars are incredibly easy to make and require no oven time—perfect for busy schedules. They offer a naturally sweet flavor from dried fruits, a satisfying crunch from the nuts, and a chocolaty finish that feels indulgent without being overly sweet. They’re ideal for meal prepping, customizable to suit any preference, and can even be made vegan or gluten-free.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates) mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, or pistachios) honey or maple syrup coconut oil or butter vanilla extract sea salt (optional)
Directions
Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate chips, honey (or maple syrup), and coconut oil (or butter). Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Add flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt if using.
Mix in fruits and nuts: Add chopped dried fruits and nuts to the melted chocolate. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten.
Chill: Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until fully set.
Slice and serve: Remove from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into bars or squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12–16 bars, depending on size. Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: 1–2 hours Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
Add Seeds: Mix in sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added nutrition and texture.
Use White or Milk Chocolate: Swap out dark chocolate for your preferred type for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or chili powder for a warm or spicy kick.
Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate and maple syrup instead of honey.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle extra chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top before chilling.
Storage/Reheating
Store chocolate fruit and nut bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Can I use any type of dried fruit?
Yes, you can use any combination you like—just make sure they’re chopped into small pieces for even distribution.
Do I need to toast the nuts first?
Toasting is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and crunch.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, substitute the nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
What kind of chocolate works best?
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for balance, but you can use milk or white chocolate if preferred.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the chocolate and add-ins.
Can I make these without coconut oil?
Yes, you can use butter or any neutral oil instead of coconut oil.
Why did my bars fall apart?
Make sure the mixture is well-pressed into the pan and chilled thoroughly before slicing.
Can I add protein powder to these bars?
Yes, a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder can be added—just reduce the amount of nuts or fruit slightly to balance the texture.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
They should be stored in the fridge to maintain firmness, especially if your environment is warm.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger pan (such as 9×13 inches) and increase the chilling time slightly.
Conclusion
Chocolate fruit and nut bars are a no-fuss, flavorful snack that combines the best of rich chocolate, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts. Customizable and convenient, they’re perfect for on-the-go energy, healthier dessert cravings, or anytime snacking. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch stocked in your fridge at all times.
Chocolate fruit and nut bars are rich, chewy, no-bake treats combining dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and melted chocolate. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or lunchbox additions.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Yield:12 to 16 bars
Category:Snack, Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:Global
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp coconut oil or butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)
3/4 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates), chopped
3/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, or pistachios), roughly chopped
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate chips, honey or maple syrup, and coconut oil or butter. Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt, if using.
Add chopped dried fruits and nuts. Mix until well combined and fully coated in chocolate.
Transfer mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully set.
Remove from the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into 12–16 bars or squares.
Notes
Use any combination of dried fruits and nuts based on your preference.Toasting the nuts before adding enhances their flavor and crunch.Store in the fridge for best texture—bars may soften at room temperature.Add-ins like chia seeds, protein powder, or shredded coconut work well.For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and maple syrup.
