Dark Chocolate Granola Bars

Name: Dark Chocolate Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned); 1 cup almonds (chopped); 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup butter (unsalted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

85 min 12 bars Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in these rich and chewy dark chocolate granola bars, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Dark chocolate granola bars are a delightful treat that balance the richness of chocolate with the wholesome texture of oats and nuts. These bars are perfect for those who crave a sweet yet nutritious snack. Making your own granola bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor them to your taste. With a few simple steps, you can have a batch of delicious bars ready for the week.

Instructions

Prepare the pan

Line a 23 cm (9-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Pro tip: Use clips to hold the parchment paper in place if needed.

Toast the oats and almonds

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the oats and chopped almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Stir halfway through.

Pro tip: Toasting enhances the flavour of the oats and almonds.

Make the syrup

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Pro tip: Be careful not to boil the mixture as it may harden too quickly.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the toasted oats, almonds, and syrup together until evenly coated.

Pro tip: Ensure all dry ingredients are well coated for better binding.

Press into pan

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press firmly with a spatula or your hands to ensure the bars hold together.

Pro tip: Pressing firmly prevents the bars from crumbling.

Melt the chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Pro tip: Alternatively, melt the chocolate over a double boiler for more control.

Add chocolate layer

Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed granola mixture. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Pro tip: For a decorative touch, drizzle some extra chocolate in a zigzag pattern.

Cool and cut

Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour until firm. Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavour.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan for even bars.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
Wrap individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dark chocolate granola bars?

Dark chocolate granola bars are chewy snacks made with oats, almonds, and a layer of dark chocolate, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

How do you make granola bars stick together?

Use a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and butter to bind the oats and almonds. Press the mixture firmly into the pan.

How long do homemade granola bars last?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Can I substitute the almonds in the recipe?

Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

What else can I add to granola bars?

You can add dried fruits, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavour.

Serving Suggestions

These dark chocolate granola bars are great on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a twist, try serving them with a dollop of yogurt or fresh fruit. To store, keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months for a longer shelf life.