If you’re in search of a treat that’s equal parts decadent and wholesome, look no further than Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars. These no-bake delights tick all the boxes: a rich chocolatey base, crunchy nuts, bursts of chewy dried fruit, and a delicate sprinkle of sea salt for good measure. They’re wildly easy to pull together, customizable with your favorite mix-ins, and guaranteed to satisfy that mid-afternoon craving or post-dinner sweet tooth. Let’s jump into your next favorite homemade snack!

Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for these Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars is short and sweet, with each item playing a starring role in the final flavor and texture. Even better, you likely have most of these pantry essentials already on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this treat to life:

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: These provide the luscious, melty foundation that brings the whole bar together.
1 tablespoon coconut oil: A touch of coconut oil smooths the chocolate and gives the bars a glossy finish.
1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as cranberries, apricots, raisins, or cherries): These add natural sweetness and delightful chew to every bite.
1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios, or cashews): Nuts lend satisfying crunch and hearty flavor; pick your favorites or mix it up!
½ teaspoon sea salt (optional): A light sprinkle of salt sharpens the chocolate and brings all the flavors into focus.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash for warmth, depth, and that irresistible bakery aroma.

How to Make Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough of an overhang on the sides so you can easily lift out your bars later. This simple trick guarantees neat squares and zero sticking when it’s time to slice and serve.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and silky-smooth. Once it’s glossy and lump-free, stir in the vanilla extract for an aromatic touch.

Step 3: Add Fruit and Nuts

Now comes the fun part! Pour in your mixed dried fruits and nuts, then gently fold them into the melted chocolate until every piece is coated. You want an even distribution here, so each bar is packed with vibrant flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Set and Chill

Scrape the chocolatey mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you’re using sea salt, this is the moment to sprinkle it over the top. Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the bars are fully set and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Slice and Enjoy

Once your Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars are ready, lift the slab out of the pan using the parchment handles and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into bars or squares—however large or small your snack cravings desire! Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars

Garnishes

For a gourmet touch, try finishing your bars with a scattering of extra chopped nuts or drizzle them with a little melted white chocolate. Edible flowers or a dusting of cocoa powder can make each piece look and feel special—perfect for gifting or impressing friends at a gathering.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a piping hot cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or even an herbal tea to balance the chocolate richness. If you’re serving them as part of a dessert spread, add some fresh berries or yogurt for a pop of brightness alongside the deep, intense chocolate.

Creative Ways to Present

Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars are surprisingly photogenic—try stacking them on a rustic wooden board, placing each square in a mini cupcake liner, or wrapping them in parchment and tying with twine for grab-and-go snacks. For parties, cut them into bite-size cubes and spear with toothpicks for an elegant appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. A layer of parchment between each bar helps prevent sticking and keeps everything tidy.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch of Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars to enjoy later, you’re in luck—these freeze beautifully! Wrap individual bars or a whole slab tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months.

Reheating

These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating. There’s no need to reheat, but a quick zap in the microwave (about 5 seconds) can give you that fresh-from-the-pan gooeyness if you fancy it.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate in Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars?

Absolutely! You can swap in dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips if you’d like, though the sweetness level will vary. Just stick to the same quantity, and always melt gently to avoid burning.

What are the best nuts and fruits to use?

This recipe is all about personalization. Choose your favorite mix of nuts (think almonds, pistachios, cashews, or walnuts) and dried fruits like cherries, cranberries, apricots, or raisins. Just make sure the combined total doesn’t exceed two cups for the best texture balance.

Can I make Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars vegan?

Definitely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and make sure your dried fruits and coconut oil are certified vegan. The result will be just as fudgy and delicious, no animal products required.

How do I keep the bars from getting too hard or too soft?

If your bars are too hard, try using a little more coconut oil next time, or let them sit at room temp before eating. If they’re too soft, make sure your chocolate is fully set before slicing, or store them in the coldest part of your fridge.

Can I add extra ingredients like seeds or cereal?

Absolutely! For a nutritional boost, toss in a few tablespoons of chia seeds or hemp hearts. You can also add a handful of puffed rice or quinoa for extra crunch—just keep the total mix-ins to about two cups.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that’s as easy as it is satisfying, these Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars belong in your recipe rotation. They’re endlessly customizable, quick to whip up, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and let this fuss-free chocolate bar magic become a staple in your snack stash!

Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in these delicious Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars, a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors. These no-bake bars are easy to make and customizable with your favorite dried fruits and nuts.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base:

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Fruit and Nut Mix-ins:

1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, apricots, raisins, cherries)
1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews)
½ teaspoon sea salt (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Chocolate Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla.
Mix in Fruits and Nuts: Combine dried fruits and nuts with the chocolate mixture. Spread in the dish, sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate until set, then cut into bars. Store in the refrigerator.