Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup tart cherries, dried; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love these Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars! They're the perfect combination of chewy oats, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate, making for an indulgent yet wholesome snack. When I first made them, I was amazed at how easy it was to bring such bold flavors together. The addition of shredded coconut adds a hint of tropical flair that keeps me coming back for more. You can enjoy these bars any time of day, whether as a breakfast treat or a dessert. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to snack.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-01-21T17:58:36.128Z

When I first experimented with these bars, I was looking for a way to combine my love for sweet and savory flavors in a healthy snack. The balance of chocolate and cherry is pure perfection! I discovered that using tart cherries enhances the overall taste, making each bite delightful. Plus, using rolled oats as the base keeps them filling and satisfying.

One of my favorite tips is to slightly underbake them for that perfect chewy texture. This way, they stay soft and moist even after cooling completely. The coconut adds not just flavor, but a wonderful texture that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. You’ll love having these on hand for a quick treat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate paired with sweet-tart cherries
Nutty flavors complemented by coconut
Healthy ingredients that keep you energized

Ingredients You Can Trust

The combination of rolled oats and shredded coconut provides a delightful chewiness that makes these bars satisfying and wholesome. The oats are high in fiber, which helps to keep you full, while the coconut adds a natural sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor. For those who need a gluten-free option, ensure that the oats you choose are certified gluten-free.

Dark chocolate is the star ingredient in these bars, offering a rich flavor that beautifully complements the tartness of the dried cherries. When selecting your chocolate chips, go for at least 70% cacao to get the full, robust chocolate taste without excessive sugar. You might even consider using chocolate chunks for a more decadent texture.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking times are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars. Keep a close eye on them as they bake; you're looking for golden edges and a slightly firm center. If you prefer a softer texture, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes, but be cautious not to underbake them too much, or they might fall apart when cut.

When pressing the mixture into the pan, use the back of a spatula or your hands to really pack the mixture down. This not only ensures the bars hold their shape but also leads to a denser, more enjoyable bite. If you find the mixture is too sticky, lightly oil your hands or the spatula with coconut oil for easier handling.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bars:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup tart cherries, dried
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, dried cherries, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and salt.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine wet and dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Bake

Spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Cool and cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute other nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Coconut Oat Bars are perfect for meal prep. After cooling completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container or a resealable bag, where they will stay fresh for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you're planning to use them as an on-the-go snack, consider cutting the bars into smaller pieces for easy portion control. This way, you’ll have a healthy treat ready whenever hunger strikes, and kids will love having their own mini snack-sized bars.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize the dried fruit in this recipe. While tart cherries are a delightful choice, you can substitute with dried cranberries, apricots, or even raisins depending on your taste preference. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the honey or maple syrup accordingly.

For a more indulgent treat, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking. This contrast will amplify the flavors and enhance the overall experience. Additionally, you could mix in some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for an extra crunch and added healthy fats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

While fresh cherries provide great flavor, they contain more moisture and may make the bars too wet. Dried cherries are recommended for best results.

→ How do I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for slightly longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can be added for extra flavor and crunch.