One pan, 40 minutes, zero stress. This healthy chocolate granola is the answer to your busy mornings. You can enjoy a delicious treat that is actually good for you. It is the perfect way to start your day with a smile. You will love how simple it is to pull together. This recipe is exactly what you need for a healthy reset right now.
Why This Healthy Chocolate Granola Is a Winner
This recipe uses simple and whole ingredients you can trust. You get heart-healthy oats in every single crunchy bite. The dark chocolate provides a rich and satisfying flavor boost. It is much better than any store-bought cereal option. Your family will love the deep cocoa taste and toasted almonds. This granola fits perfectly into your weekly meal prep routine. It makes mornings feel special without any extra work. You can feel good about serving this to your kids. It is naturally sweetened and full of good-for-you fats.
Simple Method
Making your own cereal at home is very rewarding. You just mix the dry ingredients in one large bowl. Then you whisk the wet ingredients until they are smooth. Combine everything together and spread it on a tray. It is completely foolproof for any home cook to master. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. The oven does all the hard work for you. In less than an hour, your kitchen will smell like a warm chocolate bakery.
What You Need
Most of these items are probably in your pantry already. Using fresh, high-quality cocoa makes a big difference here.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup ground flax seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/3 cup melted virgin coconut oil
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped almonds, cocoa powder, flax seeds, and sea salt.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until emulsified.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until the oats are thoroughly and evenly coated.
- Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even, thin layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting and prevent burning.
- Remove the tray from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the pan for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crunchy texture.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chips only once the granola has reached room temperature to prevent melting.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this granola over a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt. Add some fresh sliced strawberries for a bright touch. It also tastes amazing with a splash of cold almond milk. You can even use it as a crunchy topping for smoothies. Pack some in a small jar for a quick snack. It is great for on-the-go fuel during a busy day. Set the table and enjoy a slow morning with your family. Every bite is perfectly crisp and full of dark chocolate flavor.
Keep It Fresh
Store your leftovers in an airtight glass jar or container. It will stay crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks. Keep the jar in a cool and dry place. You can also freeze this granola for up to three months. Just thaw it at room temperature before you eat it. If it loses crunch, bake it briefly at 300°F. This makes it a reliable staple for your pantry. You will love having a healthy snack ready at all times.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the cooling time or it won’t be crunchy.
- Avoid adding the chocolate chips while the granola is still hot.
- Use parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup every single time.
- Stir the mixture halfway through to prevent the edges from burning.
- Double the batch during the holidays to give as homemade gifts.
- Add a pinch of extra sea salt to elevate the chocolate.
- Press the granola down firmly before baking for bigger clusters.
- Check the oven early to make sure the nuts don’t over-toast.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Use gluten-free certified oats to make this safe for gluten-free diets.
- Swap the almonds for pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
- Add a handful of dried cherries for a sweet and tart twist.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a milder sweetness.
- Stir in some shredded coconut before baking for a tropical flavor.
Common Questions
Can I make this granola ahead of time?
Yes, this is a perfect meal prep recipe. It stays fresh for two weeks in a jar. You can make a big batch on Sunday for the week.
What if I don’t have coconut oil?
You can use avocado oil or melted butter instead. Coconut oil adds a nice flavor but any neutral oil works. Just make sure it is in liquid form before mixing.
How do I get big granola clusters?
Press the granola into the pan with a spatula before baking. Do not stir it too much while it is cooling. This helps the oats stick together into satisfying chunks.
I hope this crunchy treat makes your mornings a little brighter. It is such a simple way to feel good and stay full. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 3 cups old -fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup ground flax seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/3 cup melted virgin coconut oil
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped almonds, cocoa powder, flax seeds, and sea salt.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until emulsified.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until the oats are thoroughly and evenly coated.
- Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even, thin layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting and prevent burning.
- Remove the tray from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the pan for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crunchy texture.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chips only once the granola has reached room temperature to prevent melting.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks.
