Hey there, granola lovers! ๐ Iโm super excited to share this amazing Chocolate Chia Granola recipe with you today. Itโs ridiculously easy to make, packed with healthy ingredients, and has that perfect chocolatey crunch we all crave. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a snack, or a yummy topping for your yogurt, this granolaโs got you covered. Ready to get started? Letโs do this! ๐ซ๐ฅฃ
Try this recipe: Tropical Keto Granola
What youโll need
Serves: 16 Recipe keys: Gluten free, Dairy free, Low carb, Meal prep, Vegan
- 6.4 oz. (180g) rolled oats
- 2.5 oz. (70g) nuts of choice
- 4 tbsp. coconut oil, melted
- 4 tbsp. maple syrup
- 2 tbsp. chia seeds
- 3 oz. (85g) 85% dark chocolate chips
Letโs talk about the stars of our Chocolate Chia Granola! ๐ Weโve got rolled oats for fiber and energy, a mix of nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch and protein, and coconut oil to bind everything with a hint of coconut flavor. Maple syrup adds natural sweetness, while chia seeds pack in omega-3s and antioxidants. And of course, 85% dark chocolate chips bring those irresistible pockets of chocolatey goodness. Together, these ingredients make a delicious and nutritious granola youโll love! ๐ซ๐ฅฅ๐ฐ
Letโs make Easy-Peasy Chocolate Chia Granola
Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 25 mins
Hey there, granola fans! Ready to whip up a batch of the yummiest, crunchiest, chocolatiest granola ever? Letโs get started. This recipe is super simple and only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Hereโs how to do it:
1| Preheat your oven to 320ยฐF (160ยฐC). Grab a baking sheet and line it with some baking paper. No sticking, no mess!
2| Mix it up! Throw all your ingredients into a big bowl. Give it a good stir until everything is nice and combined. Itโs like making a tasty, healthy potion.
3| Spread the love on your baking sheet. Flatten it out into an even layer. Give it a little press to help it all stick together nicely.
4| First bake: Pop your sheet in the hot oven for about 10 minutes. Then take it out and give it a gentle shake or a stir to break it up a bit. This helps it cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.
5| Back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on itโyouโre looking for that gorgeous golden brown color.
6| Cool down time: Once itโs out of the oven, let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This is where the magic happens and it gets all crunchy. After itโs cool, break it into chunks and store it in an airtight container.
And there you have itโyour very own homemade Chocolate Chia Granola! Perfect for snacking, topping your yogurt, or just munching by the handful. Enjoy!
Some possible substitution and improvisation ideas
Here are some substitution and improvisation ideas to make this Chocolate Chia Granola your own:
Try this recipe: Pistachio Granola Bars
1| Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, you can swap out the nuts for seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. They still add crunch and nutritional value without the allergen risk.
2| Sweeteners: Instead of maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup for sweetness. If youโre looking to reduce sugar, try using a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
3| Oil Alternatives: Not a fan of coconut oil? No problem! You can use melted butter, olive oil, or any other neutral-flavored oil as a substitute.
4| Chocolate Variations: While dark chocolate chips add a rich flavor, you can experiment with different types of chocolate like milk chocolate or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. You can also chop up a chocolate bar into chunks instead of using chocolate chips.
5| Additional Mix-Ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for a burst of sweetness. You can also throw in some shredded coconut, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
6| Gluten-Free Option: If youโre gluten intolerant, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep the granola gluten-free.
7| Spice it Up: Add a pinch of your favorite spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to give your granola a warm, cozy flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these substitutions to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Happy baking! ๐ช๐ฅฃ
Some useful tips for the recipe
Here are some useful tips to ensure your Chocolate Chia Granola turns out perfectly every time:
Try this recipe: Creamy Protein Mango Oatmeal
1| Mix Thoroughly: When combining the ingredients in the bowl, make sure to mix everything really well. You want each oat, nut, and chocolate chip to be coated with the oil and sweetener for maximum flavor.
2| Even Layer: When spreading the mixture onto the baking sheet, aim for an even layer. This ensures that the granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect crunch throughout.
3| Gentle Shake: After the first 10 minutes of baking, gently shake the baking sheet or stir the granola to break it up slightly. This helps promote even browning and prevents clumps from forming.
4| Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the granola during the last few minutes of baking. It can go from golden brown to burnt pretty quickly, so itโs best to check it frequently to avoid overcooking.
5| Cool Completely: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into chunks. This allows it to firm up and become extra crunchy.
6| Store Properly: Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh and crispy for up to two weeks, but letโs be realโit probably wonโt last that long!
7| Customize: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite nuts, seeds, or additional mix-ins. Get creative and make it your own!
Follow these tips, and youโll be enjoying delicious homemade Chocolate Chia Granola in no time. Happy baking! ๐ซ๐ฅฃโจ
Some serving suggestions
Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy your Chocolate Chia Granola:
Try this recipe: Matcha Chia Pudding with Mango Puree
1| Breakfast Bowl: Start your day right by topping a bowl of Greek yogurt or your favorite dairy-free alternative with a generous sprinkle of Chocolate Chia Granola. Add fresh berries or sliced bananas for extra flavor and nutrition.
2| Smoothie Topper: Sprinkle a handful of Chocolate Chia Granola on top of your morning smoothie for added texture and crunch. Itโs the perfect finishing touch to your favorite blended drink.
3| Parfait Perfection: Layer Chocolate Chia Granola with yogurt and fruit in a glass to create a beautiful and nutritious parfait. Repeat the layers until your glass is full, and enjoy a tasty and satisfying snack or dessert.
4| Ice Cream Sundae: Take your ice cream sundaes to the next level by adding a sprinkle of Chocolate Chia Granola on top. It adds a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy ice cream and your favorite toppings.
5| Trail Mix: Mix Chocolate Chia Granola with dried fruits, nuts, and seeds to create your own custom trail mix. Itโs perfect for snacking on the go or as a quick energy boost during outdoor adventures.
6| Baked Goods: Use Chocolate Chia Granola as a topping for muffins, pancakes, or waffles. Simply sprinkle it on before baking or serving to add a delightful crunch and chocolatey flavor to your favorite baked treats.
7| Snack Attack: Enjoy Chocolate Chia Granola straight out of the container for a quick and satisfying snack anytime, anywhere. Itโs perfect for munching on during movie nights, road trips, or afternoon cravings.
Get creative and experiment with different serving ideas to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious Chocolate Chia Granola! ๐ซ๐ฅฃ๐
Some storage suggestions
Here are some storage suggestions to keep your Chocolate Chia Granola fresh and delicious:
Try this recipe: Almond and Berry Breakfast Bake
1| Airtight Container: Store your cooled Chocolate Chia Granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crispy. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from getting in.
2| Room Temperature: Granola can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Just keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3| Pantry or Cupboard: Store your container of granola in a pantry or cupboard for easy access. Avoid storing it near the stove or oven, as heat can cause the granola to lose its crispness.
4| Refrigerator or Freezer: While not necessary, you can also store granola in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life. Just make sure to use an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
5| Portion Control: Consider portioning out your granola into smaller containers or resealable bags for easy grab-and-go snacks. This helps prevent overeating and keeps your granola fresh for longer.
6| Labeling: If youโre storing multiple batches or varieties of granola, be sure to label your containers with the date and type of granola inside. This helps you keep track of freshness and prevents any mix-ups.
7| Refresh: If your granola starts to lose its crunch over time, you can revive it by spreading it out on a baking sheet and baking it in a low oven for a few minutes. This helps remove any excess moisture and crisp it back up.
Follow these storage suggestions, and your Chocolate Chia Granola will stay fresh and delicious for weeks to come! ๐ซ๐ฅฃโจ
Try my other breakfast recipes, here.
And just like that, youโve got a delicious batch of homemade Chocolate Chia Granola! ๐ฅณ I hope you enjoy every crunchy, chocolatey bite as much as I do. Itโs perfect for any time of day and so easy to whip up. Donโt forget to store it in an airtight container, though I doubt it will last long! Thanks for joining me in the kitchen today. Happy munching, everyone! ๐ซ๐ฅโจ
Chocolate Chia Granola
Want to make the best granola ever? Try this Chocolate Chia Granola recipe. It's crunchy, chocolatey, and oh-so-simple. Perfect for breakfast or a snack. Youโll love it!ย
Ingredients
Instructions
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Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 320ยฐF (160ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with baking paper.
-
Step 2:
Place all the ingredients into a large bowl and stir until well combined.
-
Step 3:
Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet, flattening into an even layer. Press down to ensure the mixture sticks together.
-
Step 4:
Bake in the hot oven for 10 minutes, then remove and gently shake the baking sheet, or stir the granola to break it up a little and ensure an even cook.
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Step 5:
Return to the oven and bake for a further 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
-
Step 6:
Remove from the oven and allow to cook completely on the baking sheet, before breaking the granola into chunks and storing in an alright container.
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 153kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.