Healthy Chocolate Granola

$To make healthy chocolate granola, gather these ingredients: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (choose from almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts) - 1/4 cup chia seeds - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted until liquid - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs Each ingredient in this granola has health perks: - Rolled oats: These oats are high in fiber. They help keep you full. They also lower cholesterol, supporting heart health. - Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder has antioxidants. It can improve mood and brain health. - Chopped nuts: Nuts like almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats. They support brain function and heart health. - Chia seeds: These seeds are rich in omega-3s, protein, and fiber. They aid digestion and boost energy. - Maple syrup or honey: Both offer a natural sweetness. They have vitamins and minerals that support immune health. - Coconut oil: This oil contains medium-chain triglycerides. They can provide a quick energy source. - Dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate has antioxidants. It can improve heart health and lower blood pressure. When picking your ingredients, consider these tips: - Oats: Look for whole rolled oats. Avoid instant varieties, as they often contain added sugars. - Cocoa powder: Choose unsweetened and organic cocoa powder for better flavor and health benefits. - Nuts: Buy raw or dry-roasted nuts without added oils or sugars. This keeps them healthier. - Chia seeds: Look for whole seeds. They are more nutritious than ground options. - Sweeteners: Opt for pure maple syrup or raw honey. Avoid processed sweeteners with additives. - Coconut oil: Choose extra virgin coconut oil for the best flavor and health benefits. - Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for more health perks. These tips will help you create a tasty and healthy granola! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, add the following dry ingredients: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) - 1/4 cup chia seeds - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt Stir these ingredients well. You want them mixed evenly. This way, every bite will be tasty and full of flavor. In a smaller bowl, whisk together: - 1/4 cup melted coconut oil - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Mix until smooth. Then, pour this wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold it all together. Make sure every bit of dry ingredient gets coated. This will help form nice clusters when baking. Now, spread the mixture on your lined baking sheet. Press it down slightly with your spatula. This helps create those delicious clumps. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir it halfway through to ensure it bakes evenly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. When the granola smells great and looks slightly crispy, take it out. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. After it cools, fold in: - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs Break the cooled granola into clusters of your choice. Store it in an airtight container. This will keep your granola fresh and crunchy. Enjoy your tasty and healthy chocolate granola! To get those nice clumps in your granola, press the mixture down on the baking sheet. When you spread it out, use the back of your spatula to pack it tightly. This helps the granola stick together while it bakes. Keep the clumps large for that chewy texture you want. If you break them apart too much, you'll end up with a loose granola. Baking granola can be tricky. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and watch it closely. Bake it for 20 to 25 minutes, but stir it halfway through. This helps it bake evenly and stops the edges from burning. If you smell it getting too crispy, check it right away. Every oven is a bit different, so adjust your time as needed. You can enjoy your chocolate granola in many ways. Serve it in a bowl with creamy yogurt and fresh fruits. This makes for a colorful and healthy breakfast. Another fun idea is to sprinkle it on smoothie bowls. The crunch will add great texture and flavor. You can also grab a handful as a snack. It's tasty and keeps you full! Pro Tips Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your granola is only as good as the ingredients you use. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and pure maple syrup for the best results. Experiment with Nuts: Don’t hesitate to mix and match different nuts in your granola. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture, enhancing the overall dish. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your taste preference. You can also add dried fruits for natural sweetness! Store Properly: To maintain the crispy texture, store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing in the fridge as it can make it soggy. {{image_4}} If you want a nut-free version, you can still enjoy great taste. Just skip the nuts and add seeds instead. Try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch. They pack protein and healthy fats too. You can also swap the nuts for more chia seeds. This keeps the texture while making it nut-free. Adding dried fruits can boost flavor and nutrition. Consider raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apricots. These fruits add sweetness and chewiness. You can also toss in superfoods like goji berries or cacao nibs. They add unique flavors and extra nutrients. If you want to change the sweetness, use different sweeteners. Agave syrup or coconut sugar are great choices. They add depth to your granola without overpowering it. For flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt. These can enhance the chocolate taste and make your granola even more delicious. To keep your healthy chocolate granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. Glass jars work best, but plastic containers are fine too. Make sure the lid seals tightly to keep out air. This helps maintain the crunch you love. For the best texture, avoid storing granola in a humid place. Heat and moisture can make it soggy. A cool, dry pantry is ideal. If you notice it getting soft, you can crisp it back up. Just spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (149°C) for 5-10 minutes. Homemade granola can last up to two weeks when stored properly. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before enjoying! Yes, you can use quick oats. They will make a finer texture. However, they may bake faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Rolled oats give a heartier crunch. If you want clumps, stick with rolled oats. To make this granola vegan, swap honey for pure maple syrup. Maple syrup is a great option. It adds sweetness without any animal products. Also, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Look for brands labeled as vegan. Cocoa powder has many health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals. This can improve heart health. Cocoa powder may also boost mood and brain function. It contains minerals like magnesium and iron. Adding cocoa powder to your diet can be a tasty way to enjoy these benefits. Healthy chocolate granola is easy to make with quality ingredients. We explored how to choose the best options and shared the health benefits of key ingredients. I provided step-by-step instructions for perfecting your granola, along with tips for achieving that desired clumpiness. You can also try fun variations to mix it up. Remember to store your granola properly to keep it fresh and crunchy. With these ideas, you can create a tasty snack that's good for you. Enjoy your baking adventure!$

Healthy Chocolate Granola

A nutritious and delicious chocolate granola made with oats, nuts, and dark chocolate.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
0.5 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
0.25 cup chia seeds
0.25 cup pure maple syrup or honey
0.25 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.5 teaspoon sea salt
0.5 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, chopped nuts, chia seeds, and sea salt. Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly combined.
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth mixture.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the mixtures together until all the dry ingredients are well coated.
Transfer the granola mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Press it down slightly to create clumps.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking.
Once the granola is aromatic and slightly crispy, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
After cooling, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs. Break the cooled granola into clusters of your desired size and store in an airtight container.

Notes

Serve with yogurt and fresh fruits for a colorful breakfast.

Keyword breakfast, chocolate, granola, healthy