Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Granola

$- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats - 1 cup chopped nuts (like almonds, walnuts, or your favorite blend) - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted (plus a little more for greasing) - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher for a rich flavor) - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for garnish) - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (like dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins) When I make this granola, I grab the old-fashioned rolled oats first. They give the granola its hearty base. Next, I chop my favorite nuts. Almonds or walnuts work best, but use what you love. Then I mix in unsweetened cocoa powder. This adds a rich chocolate flavor. After that, I measure out pure maple syrup. It adds sweetness and binds everything. I also melt coconut oil, which makes the granola crispy. Then I combine dark chocolate chips. They are key for that melty, chocolatey goodness. I sprinkle in sea salt for a nice contrast. Lastly, I add pure vanilla extract for depth. If I want some chewiness, I toss in dried fruit. Using these ingredients, you create a tasty snack. This granola is great on its own, or you can enjoy it with yogurt or milk. The mix of flavors and textures makes it special. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it to help with cleanup. - In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. - Stir them well to mix all dry ingredients. - In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. - Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. - Stir until the oats and nuts are well coated. - Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet. Press it down a bit to help it clump. - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. - Stir the granola halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. - Once baked, take the granola out and let it cool on the baking sheet. - As it cools, it will get crispier. - While warm, mix in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips. You can also add 1/2 cup of optional dried fruit. - Break the cooled granola into clusters for serving. To get those perfect clusters, press the granola mixture down before baking. This simple step helps the granola stick together better. Use a spatula to flatten it out. Watch the granola closely while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a burnt taste, so keep an eye on it. Choosing quality dark chocolate chips makes a big difference. Aim for chips that have at least 70% cocoa. This adds richness and depth to your granola. You can also add a bit more sea salt. This contrast brings out the chocolate flavor and makes each bite special. Get creative with how you serve your granola. Mason jars make a fun and rustic display. You can layer it with yogurt and fruit for a tasty breakfast. Or, simply enjoy it with milk for a satisfying snack. {{image_4}} You can change the nuts in this recipe. Try pecans or hazelnuts. These nuts add a new flavor. You can also mix different nuts for more crunch. Simply replace the chopped nuts in the recipe with your choice. Just keep the same amount. This way, you still enjoy that great texture. Want to spice things up? Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix. These spices pair well with chocolate. Just a pinch can make a big difference. You can sprinkle them in when mixing the dry ingredients. Feel free to experiment with other spices too. If you need a different sweet taste, use agave syrup or honey. Both options work well in this granola. They can add a unique flavor twist. Just swap them in for the maple syrup. Remember to keep the same amount to ensure the right sweetness. To keep your dark chocolate sea salt granola fresh, use an airtight container. This will stop air and moisture from making it soggy. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Make sure to seal it tightly after each use. When stored right, this granola stays fresh for about two weeks. After that, its flavor and crunch may fade. To enjoy it longer, follow the freezing options below. You can freeze granola for up to three months. To do this, place the granola in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. When you want to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy your tasty snack anytime! Yes, you can make this granola gluten-free. Just use certified gluten-free oats. These oats ensure that you avoid any cross-contamination with gluten. Check the label when you buy them to be safe. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty snack without worry. You can replace coconut oil with other oils. Vegetable oil works well and has a neutral flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, butter is a great choice too. Just melt it before mixing it with the other wet ingredients. You can serve this granola in many ways. Enjoy it as a snack straight from the jar. It also makes a great breakfast when mixed with milk. Try it as a topping on yogurt for added crunch and flavor. Get creative with your serving ideas! To lower the sugar in your granola, use less maple syrup. You can also try using unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. Another option is to add more cocoa powder for a rich taste without the extra sugar. Experiment until you find the perfect balance! This granola recipe is simple, tasty, and full of healthy ingredients. You learned about the key items needed and step-by-step instructions to create it. I shared tips for perfect clusters and flavor boosts, along with fun serving ideas. You can switch ingredients for your taste or storage preferences. Enjoy your homemade dark chocolate sea salt granola as a snack or breakfast, and remember to store it properly for freshness!$

Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Granola

Indulge in the rich flavors of decadent dark chocolate sea salt granola with this easy recipe! Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this delicious granola combines rolled oats, nuts, and dark chocolate, all brought together with a hint of maple syrup and sea salt. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a treat everyone will love.

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Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or your favorite blend)

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/3 cup coconut oil, melted (plus a little more for greasing)

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher for a rich flavor)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for garnish)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup and prevent sticking. A lightly greased baking sheet can also help.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and cocoa powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly mixed and coated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and well integrated.

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until the oats and nuts are thoroughly coated in the chocolatey mixture.

Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Use a spatula to press it down slightly to encourage clumping, which will yield crispy clusters.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to promote even browning. Keep a close watch as it approaches the end of baking—you're aiming for a deep brown color without burning.

Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crispier as it cools.

While still warm, sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the granola, gently folding them in so they melt slightly and make delightful pockets of chocolate.

Once the granola has cooled, mix in any optional dried fruit for a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness. Break the cooled granola into clusters for serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Presentation Tips: Delight your guests by serving the granola in mason jars for a rustic and attractive breakfast display. To elevate the aesthetic, sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top as a garnish. Enjoy this granola as a snack, a satisfying yogurt topping, or simply with milk for a delightful breakfast!