Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love creating delicious treats that combine my favorite flavors, and these Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars are a perfect example. With a rich chocolate base complemented by crunchy hazelnuts and a hint of coconut, they are a real delight. Each bite melts in your mouth, making them a perfect indulgence for any time of the day. Whether I’m enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at gatherings, these bars always win hearts. Trust me, once you try them, you'll crave more!
During one of my many baking afternoons, I stumbled upon a combination that heightened my love for sweets: chocolate, hazelnuts, and coconut. I realized that by blending these ingredients, I could create a chewy, decadent bar that was not only delicious but also easy to make. With just a few steps and a bit of patience, I was amazed by the result!
What surprised me the most was how the textures played together; the crunch of the nuts contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate. I recommend letting them set in the fridge – it intensifies the flavor and makes each bite even more satisfying. Always use high-quality chocolate for the best results!
Why You Will Love These Bars
- Decadent layers of chocolate and nutty flavors
- Irresistibly chewy with a hint of coconut
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of dark chocolate, hazelnuts, and coconut in these bars is what gives them their rich, decadent flavor. Dark chocolate serves as both a delightful base and a source of antioxidants, while the hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty undertones. Don't hesitate to roast the hazelnuts beforehand; just a quick toast in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes can enhance their flavor immensely, making each bite even more delicious.
Unsweetened shredded coconut not only contributes a chewy texture but also balances the sweetness from the maple syrup. If you're looking for a more pronounced coconut flavor, consider substituting part of the almond flour with coconut flour, but be cautious as coconut flour absorbs more moisture. This simple swap can deepen the tropical element of the bars while keeping everything moist and delicious.
Perfecting Your Technique
Melting the chocolate is crucial in achieving the right texture for these bars, so take your time with it. Use a double boiler to prevent the chocolate from seizing. If you notice that the chocolate gets too thick, you can stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to smooth it out. This ensures a glossy finish and an even melt, which gives the bars their enticing look and feel.
When it comes to folding in the hazelnuts and coconut, use a gentle hand to avoid deflating the mixture. A spatula is your friend here; fold until just combined, allowing some of the nuts and coconut to remain somewhat visible. This not only creates a visually appealing texture but also makes sure every bite is loaded with all the good stuff.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars:
Ingredients
- 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of hazelnuts, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1/2 cup of almond flour
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
With these ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation for these scrumptious bars.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars:
Melt the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted chocolate with the almond flour, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Add Nuts and Coconut
Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts and shredded coconut into the chocolate mixture until evenly distributed.
Set in Pan
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Press it down firmly.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours until the bars are set. Once firm, lift them out and cut into squares.
Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the bars before chilling. It enhances the sweetness and makes each bite even more delightful!
Storing and Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars are ideal for meal prep; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Cut them into squares, place parchment between layers, and keep them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, making them a convenient grab-and-go treat to pull out whenever the craving strikes.
When it comes to serving, consider pairing these bars with fresh fruits, like berries, or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. For an added touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling them, enhancing the flavor profile while giving them a gourmet look.
Variations and Dietary Swaps
If you're looking for a way to make these bars even more decadent, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients! Try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for a subtle coffee flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate. Alternatively, you can mix in a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for a more pronounced nutty taste.
For those needing a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can substitute for the almond flour while providing a similar texture. This adjustment maintains the bars' rich taste without compromising on flavor or structure, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate will give a sweeter flavor, but dark chocolate pairs well with the hazelnuts.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I substitute the hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts would also work great in this recipe.
→ Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free certified ingredients, these bars are gluten-free!
Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars
I love creating delicious treats that combine my favorite flavors, and these Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars are a perfect example. With a rich chocolate base complemented by crunchy hazelnuts and a hint of coconut, they are a real delight. Each bite melts in your mouth, making them a perfect indulgence for any time of the day. Whether I’m enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at gatherings, these bars always win hearts. Trust me, once you try them, you'll crave more!
Created by: Madeline Archer
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of hazelnuts, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1/2 cup of almond flour
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
How-To Steps
In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted.
In a large bowl, mix the melted chocolate with the almond flour, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts and shredded coconut into the chocolate mixture until evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Press it down firmly.
Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours until the bars are set. Once firm, lift them out and cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the bars before chilling. It enhances the sweetness and makes each bite even more delightful!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g