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; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars during the busy week! They’re the perfect blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries, creating a delightful treat that satisfies my chocolate cravings without being overly indulgent. The combination of flavors and textures — soft, chewy oats with crunchy nuts — make them ideal for snacking or a quick breakfast on the go. I find them incredibly easy to whip up, and they stay fresh for days, making it a staple in my kitchen for healthy yet decadent snacking.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:22:35.273Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars, I was amazed at how delicious and simple they turned out! I used a blend of oats and almond flour for a wholesome base, and the cherries added a surprising burst of flavor that kept me coming back for more. The chocolate chunks melting into the mixture created a heavenly texture that feels indulgent yet remains healthy.

A key to achieving the right consistency is ensuring not to overbake them. I always check for a light golden hue around the edges; that way, the bars remain fudgy and chewy in the center. A sprinkle of sea salt right before baking enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully!

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        A perfect balance of rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors
Nutritious oats and nuts create a filling snack
Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits

      

Texture and Flavor Balance

The combination of rolled oats and almond flour in these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars delivers a satisfying texture, with the oats providing chewiness and the almond flour adding a delightful nuttiness. This duo not only enriches the flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile, making them a fulfilling option for your snack needs. When mixed together, the oats absorb moisture from the honey or maple syrup, creating a cohesive base that holds the bars together perfectly.

The blend of unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips introduces a rich chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness. Pairing this with dried cherries elevates the bars with a burst of tartness, balancing the richness. During baking, the cocoa creates a glossy finish, providing a beautiful contrast to the lighter oat mixture. For those who prefer a deeper chocolate flavor, you can experiment with using bittersweet chocolate chips as a substitute.

Key Preparation Tips

Be sure to chop the dried cherries into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the bars. This helps avoid large chunks that can disrupt the texture when biting into the finished product. Similarly, the choice of chopped nuts can vary based on your preference, but keep in mind that walnuts add a more earthy undertone, while almonds provide a sharper crunch. Both options create delightful contrasts against the chewy oats and cherries.

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, use a flat spatula or your hands to create an even layer. Pressing firmly is essential so that the bars hold their shape after baking. If the mixture feels crumbly, a little extra honey or maple syrup can help bind it better. After baking, let them cool completely in the pan; this can take about 30 minutes, ensuring they firm up before cutting.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Combine these ingredients in a large bowl for a delicious and nutritious treat!

Instructions

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Add Chocolate and Cherries

Fold in the dark chocolate chips, chopped cherries, and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish and press down firmly. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out the parchment paper. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as nuts or seeds! If you want to reduce sweetness, you can cut down on the honey or maple syrup.

Storage and Freshness Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them to stay fresher for longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life by a few days. When storing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, especially if you stack them.

For a longer-term solution, these bars can also be frozen. After cutting, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply remove a bar from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars with different mix-ins based on what you have on hand. For instance, substituting dried cranberries or apricots for cherries can offer new flavor profiles. If you're looking for added protein, consider incorporating a scoop of your favorite nut butter into the mixture; just be sure to adjust the amount of sweetener accordingly if you do.

You can also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth. Another fun variation is to drizzle some melted chocolate over the top after they cool to create a decadent finishing touch. For a nut-free version, replace almond flour with oat flour and use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower in place of the nuts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

While you can, fresh cherries contain more moisture and may affect the texture. If using fresh, reduce other liquid ingredients slightly.

→ How can I make these bars vegan?

Simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! Wrap them individually and store in the freezer. They can last up to three months.

→ What is the best way to cut the bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and cut while the bars are slightly chilled.