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 cocoa powder; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars whenever I crave something sweet yet satisfying. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries makes each bar a delightful treat. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to whip up, and they provide a great source of energy. Perfect for afternoon snacks or a post-workout boost, I often find myself reaching for them instead of processed snacks. Once you try these, you’ll understand why they’ve become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:09:34.832Z

When I first developed this recipe, I wanted something that would satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. After a few tries, I discovered that the combination of dark chocolate and dried cherries not only tasted amazing but also provided a nutritious boost. The chocolate gives a rich flavor while the cherries add a chewy tartness that elevates the entire bar.

One tip that I found incredibly helpful is to let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This makes them much easier to slice and ensures that they hold together well. Trust me, waiting will be worth it for the perfect bite!

Why You Will Love These Bars
Indulgent chocolate flavor with a fruity surprise
Nutritious and energizing, perfect for any time of day
Easy to make and can be stored for quick snacks

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of these Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars is made from rolled oats and almond flour, which provide a nutritious foundation. Rolled oats are not only high in fiber but also contribute to the chewy texture of the bars, ensuring they hold together well. Almond flour, on the other hand, adds healthy fats and a hint of nuttiness that complements the chocolate flavor beautifully. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Cocoa powder is the star ingredient here, giving the bars their rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar of commercial chocolate. When choosing cocoa powder, opt for unsweetened varieties with a deep color, which indicates quality. For a variation in flavor, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with carob powder, which adds a unique twist while still being deliciously chocolaty.

Technique Tips for Perfect Bars

When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix. You want the mixture to be just combined, so the chocolate chips and cherries remain evenly distributed. If the dough appears too crumbly, add a teaspoon of warm water or additional almond butter to help it come together. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture, contributing to a satisfying, chewy experience.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is crucial for the bars to hold their shape once baked. Use a flat measuring cup or the bottom of a glass to evenly compress the mixture. This will help the bars rise slightly and set uniformly during baking, leading to a perfect texture that isn’t too crumbly or dry.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start to make the process smoother.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

Make sure to mix well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

Instructions

Prepare your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the chopped cherries and dark chocolate chips, stirring until fully combined.

Press into Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a lined baking dish and press down firmly to create an even layer.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until firm.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars as a healthy treat!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Snack Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. If you prefer, you can also freeze them; just wrap each bar individually in parchment paper and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months, and you can grab one whenever the sweet cravings hit.

To revive the texture after freezing, simply let the bars sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying. However, if you're in a hurry, a quick 10-second microwave zap will soften them up nicely without compromising their overall quality.

Serving Suggestions

These snack bars are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of servings. You can enjoy them plain or, if you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate on top or sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for an elevated treat. They also make a great addition to a breakfast bowl with yogurt and fresh fruit, turning them into a more wholesome morning meal.

For a post-workout boost, pair these bars with a smoothie rich in protein or a side of nut butter for an extra energy punch. Their combination of healthy fats, fiber, and carbohydrates makes them an excellent choice to replenish your energy levels after exercise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, you can use peanut butter or any nut/seed butter of your choice.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives.