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 butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Favorites

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars! They're a delightful treat that's both wholesome and indulgent. With rich chocolate and the natural sweetness of cherries, these bars are perfect for an afternoon snack or an energy boost before workouts. I appreciate how easy they are to prepare, and they keep well in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go option. The combination of flavors is irresistible, making it hard to have just one!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:09:35.068Z

When I first created these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars, I wanted something that would satisfy my sweet tooth while being a bit healthier. The mix of oats, nuts, and dried cherries gives a nice texture and boost of nutrients. It's amazing how the tart cherries complement the intense chocolate, creating a wonderful balance of flavors.

I remember the first time I took a bite; I was surprised by how chewy and decadent they were without being overly rich. Experimenting with different nut butter types has been a game changer too, so feel free to get creative with the base!

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Deliciously chewy texture paired with rich chocolate and tart cherries
Perfect balance of indulgence and healthiness in every bite
Great for meal prep, making them an ideal snack for busy days

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of rolled oats and almond butter in these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars provides a solid base for both texture and nutritional value. The oats contribute dietary fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full longer, while almond butter adds a rich creaminess and healthy fats. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works beautifully as a substitute without compromising the bar's delectable taste.

Cocoa powder not only gives these bars their rich chocolate flavor but also comes with health benefits, being rich in antioxidants. When selecting cocoa powder, opt for unsweetened varieties for the best control over sweetness in this recipe. Additionally, using high-quality cocoa will deepen the flavor, enhancing your overall experience. If desired, you can also experiment with dark chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder for a more indulgent texture.

Technique Matters

When mixing the ingredients initially, it’s essential to achieve a sticky consistency. This means blending until the almond butter and sweetener fully coat the oats, making it easier for the bars to stick together during baking. If the mixture feels too dry, a splash of warm water or an extra drizzle of honey can help bring it to the right texture. Just be cautious to avoid overdoing it, or your bars might end up too gooey.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is crucial for the bars to hold together. Use a flat spatula or your hands to compress the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, aiming for a packed layer. This not only ensures they bake uniformly but also helps avoid crumbling when you cut them into bars. Keep an eye on the baking time; you want them to set without drying out—look for edges that are just starting to turn a light golden brown.

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prep the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and you achieve a sticky texture.

Add Cherries and Nuts

Fold in the chopped dried cherries and walnuts to the mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.

Shape and Bake

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, pressing it down firmly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious, homemade snack bars!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in some dark chocolate chips or substituting the walnuts for your favorite nuts. These bars can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Storage and Shelf Life

To maintain freshness, store the Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They typically last for up to a week, making them an ideal make-ahead snack option. If you prefer a longer shelf life, they can also be frozen. Cut the bars after cooling, and layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will remain fresh in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy them whenever a craving strikes.

If you find yourself modifying batch sizes for different needs, remember that these bars scale well. Just keep the same ratio of wet to dry ingredients, and you can easily double or halve the recipe without losing the desired texture and flavor.

Serving Variations

These bars are incredibly versatile and can even serve as a base for various flavors. Consider adding coconut flakes or swapping in dried cranberries for a twist on the classic cherry flavor. You can also stir in some protein powder or chia seeds for added nutrition, especially if you’re using them as a post-workout snack.

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top after cutting the bars. This not only enhances their appearance but also adds a luxurious finishing layer of flavor that’s sure to impress. Just make sure to let the chocolate set before storing them to maintain a clean cut.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Fresh cherries have too much moisture. Dried cherries work best for this recipe.

→ How can I make these bars vegan?

Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the almond butter is vegan-friendly.

→ Can I freeze these snack bars?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

→ What substitutions can I make for nut butter?

Sunflower seed butter or tahini can be used as alternatives to almond butter.