Cherry Coconut Oat Bars

These no-bake Cherry Coconut  Oat Bars are a wholesome treat layered with flavor and texture. The chewy oat base combines almonds, coconut, dried cherries, almond butter, and honey, while the topping adds rich dark chocolate, fresh cherries, crunchy nuts, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for summer snacking, these bars are best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge or freezer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are an easy, no-bake option that’s both delicious and nourishing. They strike the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and slightly tart flavors, with a decadent chocolate topping that makes them feel like a dessert. With wholesome ingredients and no refined sugar, they’re great for meal prep, afternoon snacks, or a healthier dessert alternative. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the base:

• 1 1/2 cups old fashioned oats

• 3/4 cup raw almonds

• 1/2 cup coconut flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup dried cherries

• 1/2 cup almond butter

• 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

For the topping:

• 6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 teaspoon coconut oil

• Fresh red cherries, pitted and halved, for decorating

• Flaked coconut, for decorating

• Chopped raw almonds, for decorating

• Flaky sea salt, for decorating

Directions

1. In a food processor, combine oats, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes fine and flour-like.

2. Add dried cherries, almond butter, and honey. Pulse until fully combined into a dough-like mixture. If too dry, add extra almond butter, honey, or cherries; if too wet, add more oats.

3. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the oat mixture firmly into the pan in an even layer. Set aside.

4. Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Stir in coconut oil.

5. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the oat base.

6. Decorate with fresh cherries, coconut flakes, chopped almonds, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

7. Freeze for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.

8. Cut into 12 bars with a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, run the knife under hot water and wipe dry before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars.
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Chill Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.

• Substitute cashew butter or peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.

• Add dried cranberries or apricots in place of cherries.

• Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or drizzle extra melted chocolate on top.

• Mix chia seeds or flaxseed into the base for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 weeks. Enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer for the best texture. These bars are not intended to be reheated, as they are a chilled, no-bake recipe.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer. Old fashioned oats provide more structure.

Do I have to use almond butter?

No, you can substitute with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

Can I skip the chocolate topping?

Yes, but the chocolate adds a nice richness. You can replace it with a drizzle of almond butter if preferred.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, simply replace honey with maple syrup.

How do I keep the base from crumbling?

Make sure the mixture holds together before pressing into the pan. If it seems dry, add more almond butter or honey.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh for topping?

Fresh cherries work best, but frozen cherries can be used if thawed and drained well.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the base mixture for extra nutrition.

Do these bars taste very sweet?

They’re naturally sweetened and balanced by tart cherries and dark chocolate, so they’re not overly sweet.

Can I make bite-sized pieces instead of bars?

Yes, cut into smaller squares or roll the mixture into energy bites before topping with chocolate.

Can I prepare these without a food processor?

Yes, chop the almonds and cherries finely by hand, then mix everything in a large bowl until combined.

Conclusion

Cherry Coconut Almond Oat Bars are a no-bake treat that combines wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors. The chewy oat base and rich chocolate topping, paired with fruity cherries and crunchy almonds, create a snack that feels both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for summer, they’re easy to prepare, customizable, and a great way to enjoy a healthier dessert or midday pick-me-up.