Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars
Highlighted under: Creative Baking Recipes
When I first made these Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars, I couldn't believe how delicious they turned out! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts not only provides an indulgent treat but also a hearty start to the day. I love how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings. Plus, these bars are packed with nutrients that keep me full for hours. They truly make my breakfast feel special and worth the time spent preparing them.
Making these Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars has quickly become a beloved tradition in my kitchen. The first time I tried this recipe, I was amazed by how well the flavors came together. The nuttiness of the hazelnuts complements the richness of the chocolate, creating a balanced taste that is incredibly satisfying.
I recommend letting the bars cool completely before cutting them. It makes slicing so much easier and helps maintain their shape. This small detail can really enhance your enjoyment of these delightful bites!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Decadent chocolate flavor combined with rich hazelnuts
- Nutritious and filling for a healthy breakfast on-the-go
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits
The Importance of Oats
The foundation of these Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars is rolled oats, which provide both texture and nutritional benefits. Oats are high in fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Choosing rolled oats instead of instant oats ensures a chewy texture, supporting the overall integrity of the bars. When combined with the other ingredients, they absorb moisture while baking, resulting in a well-balanced consistency.
Make sure to use gluten-free oats if you're adhering to a gluten-free diet. This small swap does not compromise the flavor or texture and allows everyone to enjoy these delicious bars without worry. For an additional health boost, consider soaking the oats overnight in a bit of almond milk for increased digestibility and a creamier texture in the final product.
Perfecting Texture with Nut Butter
Almond butter serves as a key ingredient in this recipe, binding the dry ingredients together while adding creaminess and nutty flavor. I recommend using a natural almond butter with no added sugars or oils for the best results. This provides a clean taste that complements the richness of the chocolate and hazelnuts. If you're looking for alternatives, peanut butter can provide a similar texture and flavor or sunflower seed butter can replace it for a nut-free version.
When mixing the almond butter with honey or maple syrup, make sure to combine them thoroughly, ensuring a smooth consistency. This step is vital, as any lumps will affect the overall texture of the bars. The final batter should be thick, yet pliable, making it easy to press into the lined baking dish.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once the bars have cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles to suit your serving preferences. These breakfast bars can be stored at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container, however, refrigeration can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. If you prefer your bars to maintain a firmer texture, refrigeration is recommended as it helps to maintain shape and avoid crumbling.
For those busy mornings, consider wrapping individual bars in parchment or wax paper for easy grab-and-go convenience. You can also customize your bars by adding different nuts, seeds, or dried fruit; just ensure the total volume remains similar for the best texture. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast or a midday snack when you need a burst of energy!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Press and Bake
Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it down evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, try adding some sunflower seeds or dried fruits to the mixture before baking. These bars can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Customization Ideas
These Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars are versatile and can be tailored to fit various taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you are not a fan of hazelnuts, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding spice options like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the overall aroma and taste of the bars.
For those looking to enhance the nutritional value, consider mixing in seeds such as chia or flaxseeds. These superfoods are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and add a pleasant crunch. You can also fold in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to provide a touch of natural sweetness and chewiness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your bars crumble when you cut them, it's likely due to insufficient binding. Make sure your almond butter is creamy enough and that you've thoroughly mixed the wet and dry ingredients. A touch more almond butter or an additional drizzle of honey can help to unite the ingredients better if you find them too dry.
Conversely, if the mixture seems too sticky and difficult to manage, it may be beneficial to chill it briefly in the fridge. Chilling can help firm up the mixture, making it easier to press into the pan without it sticking to your hands.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If you're preparing for a larger gathering, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as larger batches may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Make sure to test for doneness by looking for firm edges and a slightly soft center, which will set as they cool.
For smaller batches, halve all the ingredient amounts and use an 8x8-inch baking dish. This is a perfect solution for trying out new variations or testing if you enjoy a certain flavor combination before committing to a larger batch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter depending on your preference.
→ Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars are completely gluten-free.
→ How do I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these breakfast bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars
When I first made these Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars, I couldn't believe how delicious they turned out! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts not only provides an indulgent treat but also a hearty start to the day. I love how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings. Plus, these bars are packed with nutrients that keep me full for hours. They truly make my breakfast feel special and worth the time spent preparing them.
Created by: Florence Keaton
Recipe Type: Creative Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Breakfast Bars
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it down evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, try adding some sunflower seeds or dried fruits to the mixture before baking. These bars can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g