Dark Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Dark Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars are a deliciously chewy treat combining rich chocolate, tart cherries, and tropical coconut. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, they are simple to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the oats, dark chocolate, dried cherries, and shredded coconut.
- Step 2: Add the honey to the dry mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated and sticks together.
- Step 3: Press the mixture firmly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan, spreading evenly to the edges.
- Step 4: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars are set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, add 1/4 cup chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the mixture.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey to make the bars vegan-friendly.
- Use fresh or frozen cherries if dried cherries are not available, just chop them smaller and reduce the oats slightly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well after baking.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. If refrigerated or frozen, let them come to room temperature before eating for best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, rolled oats or old-fashioned oats work best as they provide a nice chewy texture. Avoid instant oats as they may make the bars too soft.
Can I skip the chocolate?
You can omit the dark chocolate if you prefer, but it adds a rich flavor that balances the tartness of the cherries and sweetness of the honey.
PrintDark Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars Recipe
These Dark Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars are a deliciously wholesome treat combining hearty oats, rich dark chocolate, tart dried cherries, and sweet coconut, bound together with natural honey. They bake into chewy, satisfying bars perfect for a snack or an energizing breakfast option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bars evenly.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, dark chocolate chips, dried cherries, and shredded coconut thoroughly. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated and sticky.
- Press into pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Transfer the mixture into the pan and use the back of a spatula or your hands to firmly press down so the surface is compact and even.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and the bars are set.
- Cool and cut: Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into bars to prevent crumbling.
Notes
- Use rolled oats rather than instant for better texture.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Ensure bars are completely cool before cutting to maintain shape.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 10 days.
- Optional: Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavors.
Keywords: dark chocolate oat bars, cherry coconut bars, healthy snack bars, homemade granola bars, no-bake oat bars
