Chocolate Granola
If you’re looking for a deliciously indulgent yet wholesome breakfast or snack, look no further than this Chocolate Granola recipe. It’s a delightful combination of old-fashioned oats, crunchy nuts, and rich cocoa that will satisfy your chocolate cravings while providing a boost of energy. Perfect for topping your yogurt, enjoying with milk, or munching straight from the jar, this granola is a must-try for chocolate lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
Why This Chocolate Granola Stands Out
What sets this Chocolate Granola apart from the rest? First and foremost, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that are not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of oats, nuts, and seeds provides a perfect balance of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it a great way to start your day. The addition of cocoa powder and dark chocolate gives it that irresistible chocolatey flavor, while the hint of sweetness from maple syrup and coconut sugar keeps it perfectly balanced. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste!
Shopping List
To make this decadent Chocolate Granola, you’ll need the following ingredients. Be sure to gather them all before you start!
- 2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats (certified gluten-free, if needed)
- ½ cup almonds, chopped
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- â…“ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup date sugar, coconut sugar, or light brown sugar
- â…“ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped into chunks or ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
Must-Have Equipment
Before you dive into making this Chocolate Granola, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowl – for combining all the dry ingredients.
- Baking sheet – to spread the granola mixture for even baking.
- Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing the ingredients.
- Oven – to bake the granola to perfection.
Chocolate Granola in Steps
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making this delicious Chocolate Granola! Follow these easy steps for a scrumptious treat.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect crunch.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, cocoa powder, chia seeds, kosher salt, and your choice of sugar (date sugar, coconut sugar, or light brown sugar). Stir well to combine all the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture will provide the moisture needed to bind the granola together.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the wet mixture.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet. Press it down gently to help it stick together as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate
Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then stir in the chopped dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips while the granola is still warm. The chocolate will melt slightly and create delicious clusters.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into clusters and transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you need to make any adjustments or substitutions, consider the following options:
- Oats: Use gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free option.
- Nuts: Swap almonds and walnuts for your favorite nuts, like pecans or hazelnuts.
- Cocoa Powder: Use carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative.
- Sweetener: Substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or honey for a different flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Replace with another neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
When making Chocolate Granola, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Don’t skip the stirring: Stirring the granola halfway through baking is crucial for even browning.
- Watch the clock: Granola can go from perfect to burnt very quickly, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
- Let it cool completely: Allowing the granola to cool completely will help it form those crunchy clusters you desire.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Chocolate Granola fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Granola can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
Chocolate Granola FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, rolled oats can be used, but old-fashioned oats provide a better texture and chewiness in granola.
Is it possible to make this granola nut-free?
Absolutely! You can omit the nuts entirely or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Can I add dried fruits to the granola?
Yes! Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots can be added after baking for a sweet and chewy addition.
How can I make my granola clumpier?
To achieve clumpier granola, make sure to press the mixture down firmly before baking and avoid stirring it too much while it bakes.
See You at the Table
There you have it! A simple yet indulgent recipe for Chocolate Granola that’s sure to please everyone in your household. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option or a mid-day snack, this granola is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in so many ways. There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade granola, especially when it’s infused with the rich flavor of chocolate. Grab a bowl, pour in some yogurt or milk, and dig in. Happy munching!
Chocolate Granola
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, cocoa powder, chia seeds, kosher salt, and your choice of sugar. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until evenly coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet, pressing down gently.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.
- Once golden brown and fragrant, remove from the oven and stir in the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips while still warm.
- Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet, then break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Granola can be frozen for up to three months.
- For a nut-free option, substitute nuts with seeds.
