Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters! They are the perfect combination of crunchy oats, rich chocolate, and the delightful nuttiness of almonds. I love having them for breakfast or a quick snack throughout the day. This recipe is straightforward and only requires a few key ingredients, making it incredibly accessible. Plus, the clusters are fun to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits, and they provide a healthy dose of energy with every bite.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:37:35.727Z

When I first made these chocolate almond granola clusters, I was looking for a healthier snack that didn’t sacrifice flavor. Using dark chocolate for drizzling not only enhances the taste but also gives the clusters a lovely sheen. I found that letting them cool completely before breaking them into clusters helped maintain their shape beautifully.

What I love most is how versatile these clusters can be. You can easily swap out almonds for walnuts or add in dried cranberries instead of chocolate chips, making them ideal for anyone’s taste preferences. It’s a treat I feel good about eating!

        Reasons to Love Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Customizable with your favorite nuts and fruits
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a breakfast option

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters lies in the balance of dry and wet ingredients. Rolled oats serve as the hearty base, providing a chewy texture that holds everything together. The chopped almonds add an essential crunch, while also introducing healthy fats and protein. If you're looking to change things up, consider substituting with walnuts or pecans, but remember that different nuts may alter the overall flavor profile.

Using either honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the mixture but also helps bind the ingredients. Honey gives a slightly more robust flavor compared to the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. Coconut oil, when melted, helps to evenly combine the ingredients and adds a delicate hint of tropical flavor. If you prefer, you can swap the coconut oil for unsalted butter, though it may change the texture a bit.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

When baking the granola, keep a close eye on the color. You want it to turn a deep golden brown, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Stirring halfway through is crucial to prevent burning and ensure even toasting. If the granola edges start to darken too quickly, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). This helps maintain that desirable crunch without compromising on flavor.

Allowing the mixture to cool before adding the chocolate chips is also essential. If you add them while the granola is still warm, the chocolate may melt entirely and create a chocolate coating rather than distinct chips. Once cooled, the clusters should stick together well. If they aren’t clumping, try pressing them gently with your hands before fully cooling, which will help them hold their shape.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters:

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything, you’re ready to start making these delicious clusters!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your granola clusters:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Bake the Mixture

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, stirring halfway through.

Add Chocolate

Once out of the oven, allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in the dark chocolate chips. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet.

Form Clusters

Once cooled, break the mixture into clusters of your desired size.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters as a healthy snack or breakfast treat!

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding cocoa powder to the mixture before baking. You can also store these clusters in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay crunchy for about a week. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to two weeks. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing, as any residual heat can create moisture and lead to sogginess.

If you want to extend the shelf life even further, you can freeze your granola clusters. Just pack them tightly in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air, and they can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, or pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the nuts and fruits according to your preferences. For a tropical twist, add in some chopped dried pineapple or shredded coconut, or if you're in the mood for extra crunch, throw in some pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Dried cranberries or raisins can also contribute a burst of sweetness that complements the chocolate beautifully.

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. Using only a quarter cup instead of a half will still yield delicious clusters. Additionally, consider swapping standard dark chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or even using cacao nibs for a less sweet option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes! Maple syrup or agave syrup works great as a vegan alternative.

→ How can I make these clusters gluten-free?

Ensure that you use gluten-free oats and check the labels of any other ingredients to avoid gluten contamination.

→ Can I add other nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or your favorite nuts.

→ How do I store these clusters?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness.