Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars whenever I need a quick yet satisfying treat. The combination of creamy hazelnut spread with oats creates a chewy texture that's both delicious and nutritious. I find these bars are not only perfect for an afternoon snack but also make a great on-the-go breakfast option. Plus, they're super easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of your time!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:09.857Z

When I first tried making these bars, I was amazed at how simple the process was. With just a few wholesome ingredients, I was able to create a treat that was both rich in flavor and packed with nutrition. I often experiment with different nut spreads, but the chocolate hazelnut spread is truly a winner.

I’ve learned that letting the bars chill for an hour before cutting helps them hold their shape better. This little tip has made all the difference in achieving that perfect texture while still being chewy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible chocolate hazelnut flavor in every bite
Nutty oat base for a hearty snack
No baking required - quick and easy to prepare

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The harmony of flavors in these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars relies heavily on the quality of the chocolate hazelnut spread. Opt for a spread that is made with real nuts and minimal additives for the best flavor and texture. The creaminess will help bind the ingredients together, creating a moist bar unlike those made with dry ingredients alone. This ingredient also introduces a rich taste that complements the oats beautifully.

Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, providing not only texture but also a nutritious base that is high in fiber. For a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. The oats also absorb moisture, so if you notice the mixture seems too wet, consider adding an additional 1/4 cup of oats to keep it balanced without sacrificing chewiness. This will help ensure your snack bars hold their shape.

Tips for the Perfect Bar

When mixing the ingredients, it's essential to stir until everything is well combined, forming a sticky dough. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a small drizzle of honey or a teaspoon of coconut oil to achieve the right consistency. Conversely, if overly wet, a few more oats will help absorb excess moisture. The right balance will give your bars a perfectly chewy texture that's not overly crumbly.

After pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish, it's crucial to chill for at least one hour or until firm to the touch. This step allows the flavors to meld and the bars to set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares. Keep an eye on them as they cool; if left too long, they may become too hard. If you're in a rush, even a quick 30 minutes in the freezer can work in a pinch!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own delicious snack bars:

Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds to customize the bars to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your snack bars:

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chocolate hazelnut spread, honey, chopped hazelnuts, dark chocolate chips, and sea salt. Stir until everything is well mixed and forms a sticky dough.

Press into a Baking Dish

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure it's compact.

Chill and Set

Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the bars to firm up.

Cut and Serve

Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy your homemade snack bars!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Experiment with dark chocolate or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Making Variations

Feel free to experiment with different nuts if you want to switch things up! Instead of hazelnuts, almonds or walnuts can be used to provide a varied flavor profile while still complementing the chocolate beautifully. Additionally, consider adding mix-ins like dried fruit for a chewy surprise or seeds like chia or flaxseeds for added nutrition. Just be mindful of balancing the wet and dry ingredients so the texture doesn't change significantly.

For an extra indulgence, you might incorporate a layer of melted dark chocolate on top after slicing the bars. This melts beautifully and adds an aesthetic finish, making the bars appear more gourmet. Just melt the dark chocolate in a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bars before chilling again to set.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Snack Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will keep comfortably for two weeks. Placing parchment paper between layers can prevent sticking and make retrieval easier.

For extended storage, these bars freeze beautifully! Cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours, ready for that mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut spread?

Yes! Feel free to substitute almond butter or peanut butter for a different flavor.

→ How do I store these snack bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to a week.

→ Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and make sure your chocolate hazelnut spread is dairy-free.

→ What can I add to these bars for extra nutrition?

You can add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruits for added flavor and nutrients!