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 rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh or dried cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I absolutely love making Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars because they satisfy my sweet tooth while offering a wholesome twist. The combination of rich chocolate and vibrant cherries creates a delightful snack that I can enjoy at any time of day. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Whether I'm enjoying them after a workout or sharing them with friends, these bars never disappoint. They are a perfect treat for those who want a delicious yet nutritious option!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:53:35.118Z

When I first decided to blend chocolate and cherries in a snack bar, I was seeking something decadent yet wholesome. I experimented with different ratios and finally arrived at this perfect version that balances flavor and nutrition. These bars are not just for indulgence; they also provide a boost of energy!

One key tip I found really makes a difference is to use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh cherries. This enhances the overall taste and gives the bars a sophisticated touch. Trust me; it’s worth the little extra effort to seek out the best ingredients!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent chocolate paired with tangy cherries
Nutrient-packed and satisfying snack
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in your Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars is crucial for an enjoyable eating experience. The balance between the chewy oats, creamy almond butter, and juicy cherries creates a delightful mouthfeel. If you're looking for a chewier bar, consider increasing the almond butter slightly to enhance moisture. Conversely, if you prefer a firmer texture, you can slightly reduce the maple syrup. Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry texture while underbaking may cause them to fall apart.

Ensure your oats are rolled oats and not instant oats, as the latter may lead to a mushy consistence. I recommend using thick-cut rolled oats, which offer a heartier bite. Additionally, consider toasting the almond flour lightly in a skillet for a few minutes—this enhances its nutty flavor and contributes to a deeper overall taste in the final bars.

Cherries: Fresh vs. Dried

When it comes to cherries, both fresh and dried versions bring unique benefits to the Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars. Fresh cherries offer a juicy burst when you bite into the bars, while dried cherries provide a concentrated sweetness and chewiness. If using dried cherries, choose ones without added sugars to keep the sweetness balanced. You can even hydrate dried cherries in warm water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the mix, enhancing their plumpness and flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different cherry varieties! Tart cherries will lend a zesty punch, while sweet cherries can provide a decadent sweetness that pairs splendidly with the rich chocolate. Just be mindful of adjusting the quantity of maple syrup depending on the natural sweetness of your chosen cherries.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars are baked and cooled, they're great for meal prepping! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them if you prefer a chilled snack. For longer storage, try freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in wax paper or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature or enjoy them frozen for a cool treat.

These snack bars are versatile, making them easy to serve in various ways. I sometimes crumble them over yogurt for a tasty breakfast or pair them with nut butter for an afternoon snack. You can also customize the toppings with shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or seeds sprinkled on top before baking for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are as delicious as they are fun!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars:

Dry Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or dried cherries, chopped

For Topping

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delightful bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars:

Prepare the Dry Mixture

In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Mix Everything Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until fully combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create an even layer.

Add Chocolate Topping

Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips evenly over the top and press gently into the mixture.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars as a tasty and healthy treat!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding nuts or seeds to the mixture for an extra crunch. You can also substitute the cherries with cranberries for a different flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free option, swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter. This provides a similar creamy texture while ensuring the bars maintain their binding quality. Other nut butters like cashew or peanut butter could also work, but remember that they may impart a different flavor profile. Adjust sweetness by using agave syrup or honey if maple syrup is not available or if you're seeking a different sweetness level.

For a gluten-free version, select certified gluten-free oats and almond flour. If you're looking to introduce whole grains, consider substituting half of the rolled oats with cooked quinoa or brown rice for varied texture and nutrition without significantly altering the overall flavor.

Flavor Variations

To add an extra layer of flavor to your bars, consider mixing in some spices. A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract can elevate the taste and complement the chocolate and cherries beautifully. You can also incorporate chili powder for a daring twist that enhances the chocolate's richness with a hint of heat, perfect for those who enjoy adventurous flavors.

Adding in extras like chia seeds or flaxseeds not only boosts the nutritional content but also can enhance the texture. These seeds contribute omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making the bars even more filling. Incorporate a couple of tablespoons into the mix without altering the original texture dramatically.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almond butter?

Yes, any nut or seed butter would work well as a substitute!

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ What's the best way to cut the bars?

Using a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion makes cutting much easier and keeps the edges from crumbling.