Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe

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If you have a sweet tooth and love a bit of crunch in your morning routine, this Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a delightful blend of rich cocoa, crunchy peanuts, and luscious dark chocolate chunks, all tied together with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the smoothness of coconut oil. The result is a granola that’s not only irresistibly tasty but also perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a healthy dessert treat. Trust me, once you try this homemade chocolate granola, you’ll never want to reach for store-bought again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable granola experience. Each component plays its part in building the perfect flavor, texture, and color that make this granola recipe stand out.

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base that provides chewiness and fiber for a wholesome bite.
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts: Brings a satisfying crunch and a touch of savory balance to the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying.
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil: Helps the granola crisp up beautifully with a subtle tropical scent.
• 1/2 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that lends both moisture and an irresistible caramel note.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm, aromatic depth.
• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chunks: Added at the end for melty bursts of intense chocolate goodness in every bite.

How to Make Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures your granola bakes evenly without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, cocoa powder, roasted peanuts, and salt until everything is well incorporated. This dry base is where the magic begins—each ingredient contributes layers of flavor and texture.

Step 3: Melt and Mix the Wet Ingredients

Gently melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. This luscious mixture will coat the oats perfectly, helping to bind all the ingredients with a gentle sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the coconut oil and maple syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly, making sure every bit of oats and nuts gets an even coating. This step is key to achieving that perfect crunch and flavor melding.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Spread your granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. An even layer allows for uniform baking and a more consistent texture throughout.

Step 6: Bake and Stir

Bake for 20 minutes, then gently stir the granola to promote even cooking. Return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until it is crisp and fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling like a chocolate lover’s dream in no time.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking tray. This cooling period helps it crisp up further before you add the chocolate.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Chunks

Once cooled, stir in the dark chocolate chunks. These melt slightly with the residual warmth, giving pockets of melty richness throughout your Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe.

Step 9: Store and Enjoy

Transfer your granola to an airtight container and store it at room temperature. It stays fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, perfect for quick breakfasts or satisfying snacks.

How to Serve Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cold milk for a creamy contrast to the crunchy granola. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also introduce a bright, juicy burst that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Side Dishes

This granola pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of oatmeal or a smoothie bowl topped with sliced bananas and chia seeds. You can even sprinkle it on top of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifting, layer your Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe in a mason jar with layers of nuts, dried fruit, and mini marshmallows for a fun hot chocolate mix. Or package it in colorful bags to share with friends and family—it makes such a thoughtful and tasty gift!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your granola keeps best in an airtight container at room temperature, staying crisp and flavorful for up to two weeks. Avoid humidity to keep it from getting soggy.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, freezing granola is a great option. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature.

Reheating

If your granola loses some of its crunch over time, a quick reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–10 minutes will refresh that toasted, crispy texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the peanuts for other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap peanuts with almonds, walnuts, or pecans depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Each nut will add its unique crunch and flavor.

Is there a vegan option for this Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses maple syrup and coconut oil. Just double-check to use dark chocolate that is dairy-free to keep it completely vegan.

How do I make the granola gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the granola is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chunks?

Of course! You can use milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate chips depending on your taste, but dark chocolate offers a nice balance to the sweetness and bitterness in this recipe.

How crunchy is the granola?

The Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe yields a pleasantly crunchy texture, with toasted oats and nuts baked to crisp perfection. Cooling completely helps lock in that crunch before you add the soft chocolate chunks.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chocolate Granola Recipe is truly a game changer, simple enough to whip up anytime but rich with flavors that feel special and indulgent. Whether you’re starting your day or craving a wholesome snack, this granola brings comfort and joy to every spoonful. Give it a try — I promise it will become a treasured favorite in your kitchen too!

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