Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars whenever I need a quick, nourishing treat. With the rich flavor of chocolate complementing the earthy crunch of hazelnuts, they are the perfect pick-me-up for my busy days. I find that the combination of oats and nuts not only satisfies my hunger but also keeps me energized. They are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping, so I always have a healthy snack on hand when cravings hit.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:10:11.785Z

When I first tried making these snack bars, I was amazed at how simple the process was. I just combined my favorite ingredients and baked them in the oven. The result was a mixture that brought together nutty flavors and a hint of sweetness, making it hard to believe they were healthy!

The trick I found is to let the bars cool completely before slicing them. This solidifies the chocolate hazelnut mixture and ensures that you get perfect, chewy bars that hold their shape. They not only taste fantastic but are also incredibly satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Nutritious oats that provide sustained energy
Great for on-the-go snacking or a quick breakfast

      

The Role of Oats and Hazelnuts

Oats are the foundation of these snack bars, providing not only texture but also an excellent source of dietary fiber. This fiber helps to keep you full longer and aids in digestion. I prefer using rolled oats for their chewiness, which contributes to the overall mouthfeel of the bars. Instant oats can be used in a pinch, but they won’t deliver the same hearty texture.

Hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and their unique nutty flavor elevates the entire bar. They also bring healthy fats and protein to the mix, making these snack bars a balanced treat. If you’re allergic to hazelnuts or simply don’t have any on hand, almonds or walnuts can serve as great substitutes without sacrificing nutrition.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

The baking time is crucial to achieving the right consistency. Aim for around 20 minutes, but keep an eye on the edges; they should turn golden brown. If they’re browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking. Under-baking may lead to a crumbly texture, while over-baking will create a dry bar, so finding that sweet spot is essential.

Once out of the oven, cooling is just as important. Allowing the bars to rest for 15 minutes in the pan helps them set, making slicing easier later on. If you lift them out too soon, they might fall apart. Patience pays off here to achieve beautifully cut bars that hold their shape!

Making Ahead and Storage Options

These bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a larger batch and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember to label them with the date so you can enjoy them at their best.

When you’re ready to eat from the freezer, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop one in the microwave for a quick 15-20 seconds. This makes them a great choice for busy mornings or whenever you need a quick snack on the go!

Ingredients

For the Snack Bars

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, almond flour, salt, honey (or maple syrup), chocolate hazelnut spread, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang, and place on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these bars by adding your favorite mix-ins such as dried fruits, seeds, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. The tartness of berries contrasts beautifully with the sweet, rich flavor of the bars, adding freshness to your snack.

For a delightful breakfast, crumble a bar over your favorite oatmeal or yogurt. This not only adds texture but also a burst of flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Flavor Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider adding a handful of dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mix. This not only brings natural sweetness but also a chewy texture that complements the crunch of the hazelnuts.

For a hint of spice, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder to the batter. These flavors enhance the chocolate and create a more complex taste profile that keeps things interesting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute chocolate hazelnut spread with almond butter or peanut butter for a different flavor.

→ 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.

→ Can I make these bars vegan?

You can make them vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and ensuring your chocolate hazelnut spread is dairy-free.

→ How can I make these bars more chocolaty?

Add chocolate chips or chunks into the mixture before baking for an extra chocolaty bite.