Name: Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups rolled oats; 1 cup finely chopped nuts (almonds and walnuts); 1/2 cup coconut flakes (optional); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup coconut sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/2 cup coconut oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup chocolate chips or 2 chocolate bars chopped; flake sea salt (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 49 reviews

If you’re craving a snack that feels indulgent yet is packed with wholesome ingredients, this Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s wonderfully crunchy, subtly sweet, and bursts with rich cocoa flavor, making it perfect not only for breakfast but also for a guilt-free dessert or a satisfying anytime snack. Combining oats, nuts, natural sweeteners, and a bit of coconut oil, this granola strikes the ideal balance between delicious and nutritious, proving that you don’t have to compromise when you want something truly good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each with a different baking ingredient. The largest bowl in the center is filled with light beige rolled oats, with three metal measuring spoons placed on the right edge. Surrounding this bowl are smaller white bowls: one with dark brown chocolate chips at the bottom left, another with a white creamy substance at the bottom right, a bowl with golden liquid honey at the top right, a bowl with light to medium brown powder (cocoa) near the top center, a bowl with cream-colored finely ground nuts on the left, a small bowl with pinkish salt at the top left, and another small bowl with light brown powder (brown sugar) at the lower left. The image is bright and clear, arranged neatly with good lighting, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing an essential role in creating texture, flavor, and that irresistible chocolatey glow. From the hearty oats to the deep cocoa powder, everything blends perfectly to bring you a granola that feels as comforting as it tastes.

4 cups rolled oats: The hearty base that creates the perfect crunch and keeps you full longer.
1 cup finely chopped nuts: Almonds and walnuts add richness and a satisfying crunch.
1/2 cup coconut flakes (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and chewiness with tropical flair.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that gives depth without overpowering sweetness.
1/2 cup cocoa powder: Delivers rich, chocolatey intensity that defines this Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe.
1/2 cup maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
1/2 cup coconut oil: Brings moisture, helps everything crisp up nicely, and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Lifts all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars: Melts into the granola for those gooey, chocolatey pockets we all crave.
Flake sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top heightens the sweet and salty contrast perfectly.

How to Make Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Gather Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gathering all your measured ingredients upfront makes the process smoother and ensures nothing is forgotten.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, coconut flakes if you’re using them, and salt. This dry blend will be the crunchy framework of your granola, so mix it well to distribute everything evenly.

Step 3: Heat the Chocolate Mixture

Warm the coconut sugar, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and coconut oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes glossy and smooth. This step is what binds the granola together and infuses it with rich chocolate flavor.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Combine with Dry Mix

Once you remove the saucepan from the heat, stir in the vanilla extract to deepen the aroma. Pour this luscious liquid over the oat mixture and stir thoroughly to make sure every bit of granola gets evenly coated with that chocolatey goodness.

Step 5: Bake Your Granola

Spread the mixture out on your prepared baking sheet and press it firmly into an even layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, which will toast the oats and nuts to perfection, giving you that satisfying crunch and a slight caramelized flavor.

Step 6: Melt Chocolate Chips on Top

Immediately after the granola comes out of the oven, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the surface. Pop it back in for another 5 minutes so they melt into soft, glossy pools. Then, stir the granola to distribute the melted chocolate throughout — this little step adds an irresistible gooey texture that makes this Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe truly special.

Step 7: Cool and Break Apart

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet for about an hour. This resting time helps it crisp up fully. Once cooled, break it apart into clusters of your desired size, and it’s ready to enjoy or store!

How to Serve Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe

A white bowl filled with clusters of dark brown chocolate granola resting in white milk. Each granola cluster shows a rough texture with visible oats and small nut pieces, some clusters have shiny melted chocolate melted on top.The setting includes a white marbled surface with parts of other bowls and containers containing more granola and milk visible at the edges. The natural light highlights the glossy chocolate and oat textures clearly photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This granola shines beautifully when topped with a drizzle of Greek yogurt or a splash of cold milk. For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle fresh berries or a handful of sliced bananas on top to balance the chocolate with fresh, fruity brightness.

Side Dishes

Pairing this granola with a creamy smoothie bowl or alongside a fresh fruit salad elevates your breakfast or snack to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s also fantastic sprinkled over vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert that feels homemade and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the granola in pretty glass jars layered with yogurt and fruit for a stunning parfait. Or mix it into your favorite trail mix for a decadent touch. For an on-the-go treat, pack it in small resealable bags so you can enjoy the Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe wherever life takes you.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your granola will keep wonderfully in an airtight container stored in a cool, dry pantry for up to two weeks. This makes it super convenient to have on hand for busy mornings or whenever a snack attack hits.

Freezing

If you want to store it longer, freezing granola is a great option. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Granola is typically eaten at room temperature or chilled, but if you prefer a warm treat, gently reheat it in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F to bring back that freshly toasted crunch and warm chocolate aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides almonds and walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to use pecans, pistachios, or even hazelnuts depending on your preference. Just chop them finely so they mix well and toast evenly.

Is it possible to make this granola vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as long as you choose vegan chocolate chips and use pure maple syrup. Coconut oil and the other ingredients are plant-based.

Can I omit the coconut flakes?

Definitely! Coconut flakes add texture and subtle sweetness, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand, just skip them — the granola will still be delicious.

How do I make granola less sweet?

You can reduce the coconut sugar or maple syrup slightly to suit your taste. Just keep in mind it might affect the binding and texture, so cut back gradually.

What’s the best way to keep granola crunchy?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and avoid exposing it to moisture. If you live in a humid climate, adding a dry food-safe packet or keeping it in the fridge can help maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite treats to make and share because it satisfies the chocolate craving while keeping things wholesome. Whether you’re spooning it into your yogurt, snacking straight from the jar, or sprinkling it onto ice cream, it’s a comforting crunch that brightens any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how such simple ingredients can come together to create something so deliciously addictive!