Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I absolutely love whipping up these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars for a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a delightful flavor balance that makes each bite feel indulgent yet wholesome. Plus, they're incredibly simple to make—perfect for busy days when I need a fast snack or an energy boost. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create something delicious that I know will be a hit with family and friends. Let's dive into this enjoyable recipe!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:13:34.744Z

Making these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars was a delightful experience, especially watching how the rich chocolate melded beautifully with the sweet-tart cherries. I found that using a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate really enhanced the overall flavor, giving the bars a depth that keeps me coming back for more.

I’ve experimented with different kinds of nuts, too, but I always come back to the classic chopped almonds for their crunch and ability to complement the cherries. Each batch disappears quickly, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Rich chocolate and tart cherry combination for a perfect taste.
Nutty crunch adds an exciting texture contrast.
Great for a quick snack or a healthy dessert option.

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient in these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars enhances not only the flavor but also the texture. The rolled oats provide a hearty base that offers fiber and a chewy texture, while the cherries add a tartness that complements the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup. Dark chocolate adds richness and depth, making each bite feel indulgent despite being healthy.

Almond butter acts as a binding agent, giving the bars a creamy consistency. It also adds healthy fats, ensuring that you feel satisfied after snacking. The chopped almonds contribute a delightful crunch, providing a contrast to the soft texture of the oats and cherries. Don't forget the vanilla extract; it enhances the overall flavor profile, making the bars more aromatic and inviting.

Chilling and Storing Tips

Chilling the mixture is a crucial step that often gets overlooked. By refrigerating for about 30 minutes, you allow the ingredients to bind together more effectively, resulting in bars that hold their shape better. If you find your mixture is still crumbly after chilling, simply press it down more firmly before cutting; this extra pressure will help the bars stick together.

For storage, keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to prepare them ahead and need longer shelf life, consider freezing individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients depending on what you have on hand! For a nut-free option, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter. Likewise, you can replace the chopped almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch. For a different flavor profile, try using dried cranberries or apricots in place of cherries, or even add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.

If you're looking to reduce sugar further, use unsweetened apple sauce instead of honey or maple syrup. Just remember to cut back slightly on the oats, ensuring the mixture maintains its desired texture. Each variation brings something unique to the table, so experiment to find your perfect bar!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

Ensure everything is fresh for the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your snack bars:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped cherries, chopped almonds, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the melted dark chocolate, honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

Shape the Bars

Line a baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture evenly into the dish. Make sure to pack it tightly for the best structure.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift the parchment paper and cut into bars. Store them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your delicious bars as a tasty snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling the bars. This contrast enhances the overall taste and makes them even more addictive!

Serving Ideas

These Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars are perfect on their own, but you can also elevate your serving game. Consider pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of nut butter on top. A drizzle of additional melted chocolate can also make them feel even more decadent for dessert.

For a breakfast option, crumble the bars into yogurt or oatmeal to add texture and flavor. They also make excellent energy-boosting snacks before or after workouts. I’ve even taken them on hikes, where their compact size and portability come in handy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bars crumble during cutting, it could be due to insufficient binding. Ensure you're pressing the mixture down firmly into the baking dish for a more cohesive structure. If the mixture feels too dry before chilling, try adding a teaspoon of water or additional nut butter to help it bind better.

On the other hand, if your bars are too sticky and won’t hold their shape, it may be a sign of too much wet ingredients. In this case, you can add a little more oats or a fine nut flour to absorb the moisture. Don’t be discouraged; troubleshooting can lead to an even better final product!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable based on your needs. If you want to make a larger batch for a gathering, simply double all the ingredients and use a bigger baking dish, adjusting the chilling time if necessary. Just ensure you evenly distribute the mixture for consistent texture across all bars.

Conversely, if you want to try a smaller portion, you can halve the ingredient measurements without compromising the integrity of the bars. Use a smaller dish—like an 8x8-inch pan—that fits the reduced amount, and keep an eye on the chilling time as it may set a bit faster with less volume.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Yes, but keep in mind that you should pit and chop them first, and they may add more moisture.

→ How long do these bars stay fresh?

They can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the almond butter?

Absolutely! You can use peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice.

→ Are these bars suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey!