Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/3 cup honey; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Soft Meals

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars for a tasty treat that satisfies my sweet tooth. These bars are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, all held together by wholesome oats. Every bite is chewy and satisfying, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or a quick breakfast on the go. I enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and these bars are versatile enough to adapt to my favorite flavors. I can't wait for you to try them!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:29:35.707Z

When I first baked these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they turned out. The combination of oats and hazelnuts provides a fantastic texture, complemented beautifully by the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. I’ve perfected the baking time to ensure they’re chewy without being too soft and crumbly.

One of my favorite tips is to toast the hazelnuts slightly before adding them to the mixture. This enhances their flavor, giving the bars a wonderful depth that makes them hard to resist! Each time I make these bars, I can't help but admire how they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty twist
Chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Great for on-the-go snacking or a sweet treat

Choosing the Right Oats

When making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars, the type of oats you choose can significantly impact the texture and chewiness of the final product. Rolled oats work best in this recipe because they provide the perfect balance of chewiness and structure. Avoid instant oats, as they can result in a mushy consistency. If you prefer a heartier bar, consider using steel-cut oats, but be mindful that this may require a longer baking time and can alter the final texture.

Additionally, if you want a gluten-free version of these bars, ensure that you select certified gluten-free rolled oats. This will keep your snack safe for those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining the delicious flavor and chewiness that make these bars irresistible.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right balance of chewy and slightly firm texture is key to making these oat bars satisfying. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix; you want everything to be just combined. Overmixing can lead to overly dense bars that won’t hold together as nicely. Look for a mixture that clumps together when squeezed in your hand, indicating it will bake into a cohesive texture.

Baking time is also crucial. Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of the 25-minute baking period. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges begin to turn a light golden brown, and the center is set but still slightly soft. Allowing them to cool completely will ensure they firm up nicely for slicing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you get started:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to make the bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the honey and almond butter until well combined. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Add Chocolate Chips

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

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly in the lined baking dish and bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Enjoy!

Once baked, these bars can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon. You can also substitute hazelnuts with your favorite nuts or seeds.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks without losing their proper texture. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying, as cold bars might be a bit too firm.

For even longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Flavor Variations

While the chocolate and hazelnut combination is a classic, feel free to experiment with different flavors! For a fruity twist, you can add dried cranberries or blueberries into the mix. Just ensure to adjust the amount of honey accordingly, as the added fruits can introduce their own sweetness.

Another exciting variation is to introduce different nut butters, such as cashew or peanut butter, instead of almond butter. Each type will impart a unique flavor while keeping the bars creamy and delicious. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract can also enhance the overall flavor, making these bars even more delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap hazelnuts for almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds.

→ How do I store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, use certified gluten-free oats to make these bars gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! They freeze well. Wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to three months.