Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Golden Cooking

I love making these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters for a quick, healthy snack that’s full of flavor. The combination of rich dark chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delightful contrast that keeps me coming back for more. The best part? It takes only a few minutes to prepare and is packed with wholesome ingredients! Whether I’m enjoying them as a breakfast option or a dessert treat, these clusters never disappoint in satisfying my cravings.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:47:36.424Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters is always a fun adventure in my kitchen. I experimented with different nuts and seeds, but the almond and dark chocolate combination truly stood out as a winner. I realized the key is to not overbake them; this way they retain that delightful crunch without becoming too hard!

What I love most about these clusters is their versatility. Depending on what I have on hand, sometimes I even toss in a few dried fruits or seeds. They store well in an airtight container and are perfect for travel, road trips, or simply enjoying at home. I always keep a batch ready for snacking!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious crunch with every bite
Customizable with your favorite nuts and dried fruits
Great for on-the-go snacking

      

The Importance of Ingredients

Choosing high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters. Old-fashioned rolled oats provide a hearty base that stays chewy while holding together, creating the perfect crunch. I prefer using organic almonds for their richer flavor, but feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans if you're looking for a twist on the classic nut combination.

The dark chocolate chips are not just for indulgence; they add a touch of sophistication and balance the sweetness from the honey or maple syrup. A high cocoa percentage ensures a rich taste that complements the granola's crunch. If you’re dairy-free, opt for vegan chocolate chips to maintain that decadent chocolatey flavor without compromising dietary choices.

Techniques for Perfect Clusters

When mixing the granola ingredients, it’s crucial to coat everything evenly in the melted coconut oil and sweetener. This step not only helps to bind the mixture but also adds a lovely flavor. Stir until the oats and nuts are glossy, ensuring no dry ingredients are left at the bottom of the bowl. It might feel like a lot to mix, but this thorough incorporation is what leads to those satisfying clusters.

Forming the clusters can be a fun part of the process. I recommend using a large cookie scoop to create uniform portions, which will bake evenly. Press the mixture firmly together on the baking sheet to ensure the clusters stick during baking. If you prefer smaller bites, simply adjust the portion size accordingly, keeping an eye on baking time to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious clusters:

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your granola clusters:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped almonds, salt, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well coated.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Form Clusters

Scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters by pressing them together.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the clusters to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them apart and storing in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap almonds for your favorite nuts or add in some dried fruit like cranberries for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

Once your clusters have cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, retaining their crunchy texture. If you find yourself with a larger batch, consider freezing some for later. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they'll last for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste as fresh as the day you made them.

Be cautious of moisture; avoid storing the granola in a humid area as this can lead to sogginess. If you’re worried about humidity, you can also add a silica gel pack to your storage container to absorb excess moisture, helping maintain that delightful crispness.

Customizing Your Clusters

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to substitute or add in your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Chopped dried apricots or cranberries can introduce a lovely chewy texture and counterbalance the richness of the chocolate. For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite nut butter before mixing the dry ingredients, which can enhance creaminess and flavor.

You can also experiment with different sweeteners—agave nectar or brown rice syrup can be used in place of honey or maple syrup, depending on your taste preferences. The key is to achieve a similar liquid consistency, ensuring the clusters bind together while providing the flavor you enjoy. Don't hesitate to get creative with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an added aromatic depth!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While quick oats can be used, rolled oats provide better texture and crunch for clusters.

→ How long do these granola clusters last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks at room temperature.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ Can I add additional ingredients to the clusters?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with seeds, other nuts, or even spices to elevate the flavor.