Larabar Bites: A Healthier Chocolate Fix (DISCONTINUED)

Unfortunately, Larabar Bites were discontinued. But they still make classic Larabars and Protein Larabars. For a snack bite experience, try EatPastry Real Cookie Dough Bites, Enjoy Life Chocolate Protein Bites, or Optimum Nutrition Nature Bites.

For those of us who love the more indulgent Larabar flavors, enter Larabar Bites.

These truffle-sized portions kick that classic Larabar date-nut base up a notch with just a little more chocolate. The ingredients remain quite simple, with dates, almonds, coconut flour, and semi-sweet, dairy-free mini chocolate chips in all. From there, each flavor has its own added nuances. For example, one contains an extra dose of cocoa powder and a pinch of sea salt, while another packs in some powerful peppermint oil.

But before I get into our tasting notes, I want to address the elephant in the room. Like many others, sticker shock hit when I looked at the price of these enticing Larabar Bites. You might think you’re buying actual artisan truffles rather than the sweet wholesome snacks that these are. Each bag is a little more than 3 times the size of 1 Larabar, so I anticipated a full retail price of around $5 per bag. Unfortunately, it’s a good dose higher. The lowest price I have found to date is on Amazon. I think they’re worth the splurge to sample, since they fill a delicious need for healthy treats. Then you can decide if your weekly budget should make room for bags of Larabar Bites.

Tasting Notes for Larabar Bites

Larabar Bites are chewy and cohesive like traditional Larabars, but have a light coconut flour dusting to make them easier to handle. I consider these to be two-bite treats, but I’m sure many others would argue that they’re straight-up poppable. That said, I love being able to enjoy four Larabar Bites in each 130 calorie serving. I highly recommend having a bag of each flavor on hand, for a snackable assortment each time you indulge.

Cherry Chocolate Chip

The cherries take center stage, despite being far down on the ingredient list, and give these Larabar Bites and old-school, fruit bar-esque vibe. The coconut flour and almonds add a little graininess to the texture, but I didn’t find this off-putting. I was a little disappointed that the chocolate chips weren’t more abundant. But overall, this variety should hit the mark for chocolate cherry fans.

Double Chocolate Brownie

These were more rich in cocoa than the others, and somewhat heavy in dates. The slightly earthy flavor was quite pleasant, but didn’t really take my taste buds to brownies. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed these as a snackable treat.

Chocolate Macaroon

This blend was a little more seamless than the others. The coconut underpinnings helped to meld the chocolate and date flavors, and escalated the “treat” factor just a touch. I didn’t expect it, but this might be my favorite of the Larabar Bites.

Mint Chocolate Truffle

The minty scent is amazing, but that bold essence carried over a bit too much in the flavor. My first taste was over-the-top with this potent oil, but it seemed to settle in after a night in the refrigerator. This variety was richer and more chocolaty than the others, but still not quite a truffle.

The Facts on Larabar Bites

Price: $7.59 per 5.3-ounce bag

Certifications: The Larabar Bites are Certified Kosher Pareve and Fair Trade Certified. 

Dietary Notes: By ingredients, the Larabar Bites are dairy-free / non-dairy, egg-free, gluten-free, grain-free, peanut-free, soy-free, vegan / plant-based, and vegetarian. Nonetheless, always read the ingredient statement and check with the company on their manufacturing processes for all varieties if potential allergen cross-contamination is an issue for you. Processes and labeling are subject to change at any time for any company / product.

For More Product Information: Visit the Larabar website at larabar.com.

Both a snack and a sweet

Rated 5 out of 5

March 9, 2019

Though they don’t quite achieve full-blown “truffle” or “brownie” status, these healthy workhorses easily perform double duty as both a snack and a sweet. I ended up grabbing a couple bites when sweets cravings hit for a fulfilling treat that didn’t leave me flat. My top pick is the Chocolate Macaroon for it’s very cohesive goodness. That said, the Chocolate Brownie is a nice baseline flavor, while the other two varieties are fabulous for intense flavor seekers. I don’t usually dock stars for cost, since affordability and value is relative. But be sure to price these pouches around, as the full retail price may seem a bit steep for the sizing.

Alisa