Mediterranean No-Sugar Chocolate Crunch Bars

By Muhammad Faizan

Mediterranean No-Sugar Chocolate Crunch Bars

A rich, satisfying no-sugar, Mediterranean-inspired chocolate bar with a crunchy texture. These bars combine dark chocolate, olive oil, and wholesome add-ins for a guilt-free treat that’s easy to make and requires no baking.

The picture shows chocolate bars with a glossy top and crunchy bits throughout — exactly what this recipe creates.

Ingredients

BASE (Chocolate Layer)

  • 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
    (or chopped no-sugar dark chocolate)

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (Mediterranean option)
    or coconut oil

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

CRUNCH MIX-INS (Choose 1–3)

Pick according to preference:

  • 1 to 1½ cups of:

    • Roasted nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, peanuts, etc.)

    • Seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame)

    • Sugar-free cornflakes or puffed rice

    • Unsweetened coconut flakes

    • Sugar-free chocolate chips for extra texture

(The image resembles a mix of puffed pieces or chopped nuts covered in chocolate.)

Optional:

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • ½ teaspoon espresso powder (enhances chocolate flavor)

  • Sugar-free sweetener if desired (erythritol, stevia, monk fruit)

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate Base

  1. Add chocolate chips and olive oil to a heat-safe bowl.

  2. Melt using one of these methods:

    • Microwave: heat 30 seconds → stir → repeat until smooth.

    • Double boiler: place bowl over simmering water and stir until melted.

  3. Once melted, whisk in:

    • Cocoa powder

    • Vanilla extract

    • Optional espresso powder

    • Sweetener if needed

2. Add Crunch

  1. Add your chosen nuts, seeds, or cereal.

  2. Stir well so everything is coated evenly.

3. Mold and Set

  1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.

  2. Pour the mixture into the pan and spread evenly.

  3. Chill in the fridge 1–2 hours or until firm.

4. Slice

  1. Once set, lift the slab out and cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife.

Notes

  • For bars that look like the photo, use mixed chopped nuts and some sugar-free chocolate chips.

  • Olive oil adds a true Mediterranean touch and keeps chocolate smooth.

  • Coconut oil hardens more firmly and gives a snappier texture.

  • To avoid melting at room temperature, use chocolate with >70% cocoa.

Tips for Best Results

  • Toast nuts first — gives a deeper flavor.

  • For a glossy finish, don’t overheat the chocolate; melt slowly.

  • Add sea salt flakes on top before chilling for a gourmet twist.

  • Refrigerate until cutting to keep bars from crumbling.

  • For a thicker bar, use a smaller pan (6×6).

Servings

  • Makes 12 large bars or

  • 16 small squares

Estimated Nutritional Information (per square – 1/16 pan)

(Values vary by ingredients used)

  • Calories: 110–140

  • Carbs: 3–6 g net

  • Fiber: 2–4 g

  • Protein: 2–4 g

  • Fat: 10–12 g

  • Sugar: 0 g added sugar

Benefits

✔ No added sugar

Great for keto, diabetic-friendly eating, or reducing sugar intake.

✔ Mediterranean-inspired

Olive oil, nuts, and seeds supply healthy monounsaturated fats.

✔ Antioxidant-rich

Dark chocolate and cocoa contain polyphenols beneficial for heart health.

✔ Quick and no-bake

Ready with minimal effort.

✔ Customizable

Add nuts, seeds, or cereals to your liking.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this completely dairy-free?

Yes — use dairy-free sugar-free chocolate and olive oil.

Q: Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of sweetener?

Yes, but then it will no longer be no-sugar. Reduce the oil slightly to maintain texture.

Q: Do these store well?

Store in:

  • Fridge: up to 2 weeks

  • Freezer: up to 3 months

Q: Can I make this without nuts?

Absolutely. Use puffed rice, seeds, cocoa nibs, or coconut flakes.

Q: Why add olive oil?

It makes the chocolate smoother, shinier, and adds Mediterranean flavor and healthy fats.

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