Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup oats; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup dried cherries; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Additional dark chocolate for drizzling; Chopped nuts or seeds

Highlighted under: Sweet Ideas

When I first tried my hand at making Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to mingle the rich chocolate flavor with the tartness of cherries. The combination creates a deliciously balanced bar that I can't resist. These snack bars quickly became a favorite in my house, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet treat after dinner. Plus, with just a few ingredients, I love how simple they are to whip up whenever the craving strikes!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:57:35.288Z

During my quest for healthy yet satisfying snacks, I stumbled upon the idea of Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars. It turned out to be a perfect blend of nutrition and indulgence. The addition of oats and nuts provides the necessary energy, while the cherries add a delightful sweetness. After testing various recipes, I found that using melted dark chocolate made a significant difference in both flavor and texture, creating a rich and chewy experience.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can swap in different nuts or even the chocolate type based on what you have on hand. My kids love it when I add a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before they cool down – it elevates the flavor even more. This keeps them excited about snacking on something that is both nutritious and indulgent!

Why You'll Love These Snack Bars
Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
Nutty texture that satisfyingly crunches with every bite
Simple to prepare and perfect for on-the-go snacking
A healthy option that doesn't skimp on indulgence

The Role of Each Ingredient

The oats in this recipe not only provide a wholesome base but also contribute to the chewy texture of the bars. These whole grains are packed with fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. When choosing oats, I recommend using rolled oats rather than instant oats, as they lend a heartier bite and hold their shape better during baking.

Almond flour adds a delightful nuttiness and moisture to the bars. It's a wonderful gluten-free option that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you need a nut-free alternative, you can swap it for sunflower seed flour. Just keep in mind that the substitution may change the flavor slightly, so choose one that aligns with your taste preferences.

Perfecting the Texture

Getting the right consistency for your snack bars is crucial. When you mix the ingredients, the nut butter and honey should create a sticky, cohesive dough. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, a splash of water or an additional tablespoon of nut butter can help bind it. On the other hand, if it appears too wet, adding a bit more almond flour can achieve that ideal balance.

When pressing the mixture into the pan, ensure that it's compact and evenly distributed. This step is essential for preventing the bars from crumbling when cut. Using a flat spatula or even the bottom of a measuring cup can help achieve a smooth surface. You want it to be snug in the pan, promoting better structure when baked.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup dried cherries
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Topping (Optional)

Additional dark chocolate for drizzling
Chopped nuts or seeds

Instructions

Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, almond flour, dark chocolate chips, dried cherries, honey, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Spread Mixture

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down evenly with a spatula or your hands to create a flat, compact layer.

Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.

Cut and Serve

Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or using other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars store beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead snack. Once fully cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they should last for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to three months.

For a quick snack, you can grab a bar straight from the freezer. They will thaw in about 15 minutes at room temperature, making them perfect for an on-the-go treat. Just be sure to adjust your serving size accordingly, as frozen bars can be a bit denser than when they’re fresh.

Serving Variations

While the base recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to customize your bars! Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or toss in some seeds, such as chia or flax, for added nutrition. Chocolate lovers might enjoy using a mix of dark and white chocolate chips for a marbled effect, which also creates a visually appealing treat.

Another fun way to serve these bars is by turning them into an ice cream sundae component. Crumble them over your favorite ice cream or yogurt for a delightful crunch. This combo works beautifully with fresh berries, making an indulgent yet balanced dessert option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Fresh cherries would add too much moisture. It's best to stick with dried cherries for this recipe.

→ How long do these snack bars last?

If stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually in foil before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ Are there any substitutions I can make?

Yes! You can use different nut butters, change the type of flour, or use other types of dried fruits and nuts.