Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars because they are the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent. The combination of oats and nuts provides a satisfying crunch, while the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors give it a decadent touch. These bars are easy to prepare, making them an ideal snack for busy days or a delightful treat for my friends. Plus, they are sweetened with natural ingredients, so I feel good about enjoying them anytime!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:28:12.223Z

When I first crafted these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars, I was searching for something delicious yet nutritious to satisfy my afternoon cravings. I experimented with different ratios of chocolate and nuts until I found the perfect match that balanced health and indulgence seamlessly. The result was these delightful bars that I couldn’t stop snacking on!

Throughout my trials, I discovered that lightly toasting the oats beforehand really enhances their flavor and adds a wonderful crunch. Also, using pure hazelnut spread instead of a mixed nut butter elevates the taste profile and makes each bite an irresistible treat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Nutritious oats provide lasting energy throughout the day
Easy to make and perfect for any snack occasion

      

The Role of Oats and Hazelnuts

In this recipe, rolled oats are the backbone, providing structure and a chewy texture. They are rich in fiber, which not only helps keep you feeling full but also offers sustained energy throughout the day. The oats also absorb moisture when baked, helping the bars maintain a soft yet sturdy consistency. For those looking for a gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats can easily be used without compromising taste or texture.

Hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate. They also provide healthy fats, making these bars satisfying without being overly heavy. If you're short on hazelnuts or looking for a different flavor profile, walnuts or almonds can be substituted, although the taste will shift slightly. Just ensure that whatever nut you choose is roughly chopped to maintain an even distribution throughout the bars.

Perfecting Texture and Flavor

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it’s important to achieve a homogeneous mixture without overmixing; this ensures that the bars bake evenly. Once combined, the mixture should look cohesive but slightly sticky. If it seems too dry, a splash of water or an additional tablespoon of nut butter can help bind the ingredients without altering the flavor substantially. If it appears too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats or cocoa powder.

As the bars bake, you'll want to keep an eye on them. The edges should turn a golden brown, and they should feel slightly firm but not hard to the touch. If they seem undercooked after the initial 25 minutes, bake in 3-5 minute increments, checking periodically to avoid over-baking. They will firm up further as they cool, so it's crucial not to rely solely on time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these simple ingredients on hand, you are ready to create a batch of delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your bars:

Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix together the hazelnut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until everything is well combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes until slightly firm and edges are golden.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the overhanging parchment to lift the bars out and cut into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars as a nutritious snack any time of the day!

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can sprinkle some extra chopped hazelnuts on top before baking. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the honey or maple syrup slightly.

Storage Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about five days, although I find they taste best within the first couple of days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. Just make sure to separate the bars with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

For longer storage, freeze the bars in individually wrapped portions. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take one out and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds for a soft, chewy texture.

Serving Ideas and Variations

These bars are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as-is or enhance the presentation by drizzling melted dark chocolate on top or sprinkling with sea salt for an extra touch of flavor. They make a fantastic on-the-go breakfast paired with a piece of fruit or as an afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite beverage.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding variety to the recipe by incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and texture. Alternatively, swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or even a blend of different chocolates to create a unique flavor combination that suits your palate perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the hazelnuts?

Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter you like, such as almond or peanut butter.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually for easy snacking.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, the bars will be gluten-free.