There’s a special joy that comes from creating something delicious and wholesome in the kitchen, especially when it’s homemade! Recently, I found myself rummaging through my pantry, craving a snack that was both satisfying and nutritious. That’s when I decided to whip up these delightful Homemade KIND Bars. The combination of crunchy nuts, light puffed rice, and a touch of chocolate transforms a simple treat into something truly remarkable.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of peanuts, walnuts, and almonds mingling with the subtle sweetness of honey and brown rice syrup, all topped off by a drizzle of rich dark chocolate. It’s a snack that not only curbs your hunger but also gives your taste buds a delightful dance. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you can make these bars while avoiding the heavy feeling that often accompanies fast food options. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these bars are not only easy to make but also customizable to your preferences. Let’s dive in and create a batch that you and your loved ones will adore!
Why Choose Homemade KIND Bars?
Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are a powerhouse of nutrients that will satisfy snack cravings without the guilt.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for busy schedules.
Customization Galore: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or add dried fruits to make it your own!
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or a midday snack at work, these bars will have everyone reaching for more.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: The dark chocolate drizzle adds a touch of sweetness that makes these bars feel like a treat without being too indulgent.
Budget-Friendly: Save money by making these at home instead of buying pricey store-bought versions!
Homemade KIND Bar Ingredients
For the Nut Base
- Peanuts – These add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats that offer lasting energy.
- Walnuts – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they contribute a delightful buttery flavor and texture.
- Almonds – Packed with vitamin E, almonds bring a lovely sweetness and crunch to your bars.
For the Crunchy Mixture
- Puffed Rice Cereal – This light ingredient gives the bars their airy texture while keeping them chewy.
- Flaxseed Meal – Adding fiber and omega-3s, it helps to bind the ingredients together as well!
For the Sweet Syrup
- Brown Rice Syrup – This natural sweetener creates a sticky consistency that holds everything together while adding mild sweetness.
- Honey – Perfect for a touch of sweetness, honey complements the brown rice syrup beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – A splash of this adds depth and enhances all the flavors in your homemade KIND bars.
- Sea Salt – Just a pinch will elevate all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Drizzle
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Rich in antioxidants, they add an indulgent layer that brings all the ingredients together.
- Coconut Oil – A spoonful helps the chocolate melt smoothly, making it easy to drizzle over the bars.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating your very own Homemade KIND Bars that are not only delightful but also wholesome!
How to Make Homemade KIND Bars
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Grease the Pan: Start by adding a teaspoon of melted coconut oil to a large bowl, greasing it well. Then, line an 8-inch pan with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
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Mix the Nuts: In the greased bowl, combine the peanuts, walnuts, almonds, puffed rice cereal, and flaxseed meal. Stir gently until they are well mixed and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the brown rice syrup, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Heat it over medium and whisk continuously until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
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Combine Mixtures: Immediately pour the warm syrup mixture over the nut mixture you prepared earlier. Stir everything together well until all the dry ingredients are coated and combined.
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Pack into Pan: Transfer the sticky nut mixture into your 8-inch pan. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly to eliminate any gaps and ensure the bars will hold together nicely.
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Cool the Bars: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
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Melt the Chocolate: For the chocolate drizzle, place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
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Drizzle and Set: Gently drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled bars, then set them aside to allow the chocolate to firm up, making them even more delicious!
Optional: Sprinkle some extra sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for an added flavor punch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Homemade KIND Bars?
Create the perfect snacking experience with delightful pairings that elevate your homemade treat!
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Greek Yogurt: With creamy texture and tangy flavor, it makes a refreshing dip for your KIND bars, adding protein and probiotics.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries burst with juiciness and natural sweetness, complementing the rich chocolate beautifully.
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Nut Butter: A smear of almond or peanut butter brings an extra layer of richness and pairs perfectly with the nutty components of your bars.
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Banana Smoothie: This delightful concoction adds creamy sweetness and balances the crunchiness of the KIND bars, making it a wholesome snack.
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Tea or Coffee: A warm cup enhances the overall experience, the bitterness of coffee or the soothing qualities of tea pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bars.
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Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Extend the indulgence with fruits like bananas or strawberries dipped in dark chocolate for a decadent but healthy treat.
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Trail Mix: A handful of your favorite trail mix alongside your KIND bars offers great texture and variety in flavor, satisfying all your cravings.
With these pairings, you can create a truly enchanting snack time that highlights the joy of enjoying homemade goodness!
Homemade KIND Bars Variations
Feel free to play around with the ingredients and make these bars your own!
- Nut-Free: Substitute peanuts, walnuts, and almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
- Dried Fruit: Add 1/2 cup of chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy burst of flavor in every bite.
- Coconut Magic: Stir in 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds delightful texture and flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of granola for added crunch that elevates each bar to a new level of deliciousness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the nut mixture for a surprising burst of warmth.
- Protein Boost: Swap 1/4 cup of puffed rice cereal with protein powder to make these bars even more filling and energizing.
- Flavor Infusion: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the bars beautifully.
- Dark Chocolate Variety: Experiment with different chocolate varieties like milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for a personal twist.
These variations ensure your Homemade KIND Bars can always delight your taste buds in new ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade KIND Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the nut mixture (peanuts, walnuts, almonds, puffed rice cereal, and flaxseed meal) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can make the syrup mixture and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before combining; simply reheat it gently before use. When you’re ready to finish your bars, simply combine the prepared mixtures, pack into the pan, cool, and drizzle with chocolate as directed. This way, you’ll have a nutritious snack ready to enjoy with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade KIND Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Homemade KIND Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store them in the fridge where they can last up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars in a single layer separated by parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months this way!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a while after taking them out of the fridge or freezer.
Expert Tips for Homemade KIND Bars
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Choose Fresh Nuts: Ensure your nuts are fresh to enhance the flavor and crunch. Stale nuts can ruin the overall taste of your Homemade KIND Bars.
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Avoid Overcooking Syrup: Keep a close eye while boiling the syrup; overcooking can lead to a hard texture. It should thicken but remain pourable.
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Press Firmly: When packing the nut mixture into the pan, press down firmly to eliminate gaps. This helps your bars hold together better once cooled.
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Cool Completely: Don’t rush the cooling process—letting the bars rest for a full 30 minutes is key to achieving the right texture.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in dried fruits or substitute different nuts. This flexibility allows for personalize your Homemade KIND Bars delectable!
Homemade KIND Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients?
When choosing nuts for your Homemade KIND Bars, opt for fresh, high-quality varieties without any dark spots or rancid smells. The richer the flavor, the better your bars will taste! Similarly, choose dark chocolate chips that are at least 70% cocoa for a delightful bittersweet finish, and ensure your puffed rice cereal is crisp and airy for added texture.
How should I store my Homemade KIND Bars?
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their prime freshness. If you’d prefer them to last longer, keep them covered in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to check for any moisture that could lead to them becoming sticky.
Can I freeze my Homemade KIND Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Separate each bar with parchment paper before stacking in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying for the best texture!
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your Homemade KIND Bars turn out crumbly, it often means they didn’t bind well enough. Next time, ensure you’re pressing down the mixture firmly into the pan and let them cool fully before cutting. Alternatively, you can add a little more honey or brown rice syrup to your mixture, as this will provide additional binding power.
Are these bars suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you’re avoiding gluten, these bars are naturally gluten-free as long as you choose certified gluten-free puffed rice. They can also be adapted to cater to nut allergies by substituting the nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Always check the labels of your ingredients to be certain they meet your dietary needs.
Can pets eat these bars?
While some of the ingredients in Homemade KIND Bars are safe for pets, such as oats and honey, it’s best to keep these treats for humans only. Ingredients like nuts can be high in fat and may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about specific ingredients.
Homemade KIND Bars: Nutty, Chewy Bliss You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by adding a teaspoon of melted coconut oil to a large bowl, greasing it well. Then, line an 8-inch pan with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In the greased bowl, combine the peanuts, walnuts, almonds, puffed rice cereal, and flaxseed meal. Stir gently until they are well mixed and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a saucepan, combine the brown rice syrup, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Heat it over medium and whisk continuously until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Immediately pour the warm syrup mixture over the nut mixture you prepared earlier. Stir everything together well until all the dry ingredients are coated and combined.
- Transfer the sticky nut mixture into your 8-inch pan. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly to eliminate any gaps and ensure the bars will hold together nicely.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- For the chocolate drizzle, place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Gently drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled bars, then set them aside to allow the chocolate to firm up.