Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it gently in a small saucepan over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth and glossy. Smell the rich cocoa aroma filling the air.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, coconut flakes, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well with a spatula until evenly distributed.
Pour the melted chocolate into the dry ingredients, stirring vigorously until everything is coated in that smooth, velvety chocolate. The mixture should be sticky and glossy.
Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract, then fold them into the mixture. Continue stirring until the mixture is thick, sticky, and holds together when pressed.
Using your hands or a small scoop, portion out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a compact ball. Place each bite on the parchment-lined tray, pressing gently to slightly flatten if desired.
Once all the bites are shaped, place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate firms up and the bites are set. You’ll notice a shiny exterior and a chewy texture inside.
After chilling, remove the bites from the fridge and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
