Are you ready to indulge in a snack that’s both crunchy and delicious? In this post, I’ll guide you through making Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Granola. Packed with healthy ingredients like oats, nuts, and rich dark chocolate, this treat satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt. Whether you enjoy it as breakfast or a midday snack, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the tasty details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Granola
– 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds and walnuts)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries or cherries)
When I create this dark chocolate sea salt granola, I love the mix of flavors and textures. The oats give a great base. They add a chewy quality that I find so satisfying. I choose old-fashioned rolled oats because they hold up well during baking.
Nuts bring a nice crunch and protein. I use a mix of almonds and walnuts, but you can pick your favorites. Chopped nuts enhance the flavor and add healthy fats.
Cocoa powder is key for that rich chocolate taste. I always use unsweetened cocoa to control the sweetness. It balances perfectly with the maple syrup, which is my go-to sweetener for this recipe.
Melted coconut oil gives a hint of tropical flavor. It also helps to bind the granola together.
I recommend dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa. They melt into the granola, creating delicious pockets of chocolate goodness.
A pinch of sea salt enhances all the flavors. It contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
Lastly, I often add vanilla extract for a warm, inviting aroma. If you want to mix it up, add dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a sweet burst.
This blend of ingredients makes the best crunchy snack. You will love every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. Mix them well to ensure they blend evenly. This step is key for flavor.
Preparing Wet Mixture
– In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Make sure it’s smooth. This mixture adds sweetness and binds everything.
Combining Ingredients
– Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until all oats and nuts are well coated. This helps the granola clump together when baking. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet, pressing it down slightly.
Baking Instructions
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch it carefully to ensure it turns a deep brown but does not burn. This is where the magic happens, creating that crunchy texture.
Final Steps
– After baking, remove the granola from the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will become crisp. While still warm, sprinkle 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips on top, gently mixing so they melt slightly. Once cooled, add optional dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, and break the granola into clusters. Enjoy your crunchy snack delight!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Granola Texture
Clumping is key for great granola. It helps form crunchy clusters, which everyone loves. To get this, press the granola mixture down on the baking sheet. This makes it clump together while baking.
Monitor your baking time closely. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even browning. Watch for a deep brown color, but be careful not to burn it.
Enhancing Flavor
You can add spices to boost flavor. Try cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Nut butters also add richness. A spoonful of almond or peanut butter can bring a new twist.
Experiment with sweeteners, too. While maple syrup is great, honey or agave can work well. Each adds a unique taste to your granola.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Serve granola in jars for a lovely display. It makes breakfast inviting! You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top. This adds a nice touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Granola is versatile. Enjoy it as a snack, or top your yogurt with it. You can even pair it with milk for a simple breakfast.
Variations
Nut-Free Alternatives
If you want a nut-free version of this granola, you can use seeds. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds add great crunch. They also offer healthy fats and protein. You can swap out the nuts in the recipe with an equal amount of seeds. This keeps the texture similar while making it safe for nut allergies.
Sweetener Substitutes
Maple syrup gives this granola a lovely sweetness, but you can change it up. Honey is a great option if you like a floral note. Agave syrup is another choice that stays liquid. Both can replace maple syrup in equal parts. This way, you can customize the taste to your liking.
Flavor Twists
Want to make your granola even more exciting? Add a pinch of spices. Cinnamon or nutmeg can bring warmth and depth. You can also use extracts like almond or mint for a fun twist. Just a teaspoon can change the whole flavor profile. Mix it in with the dry ingredients for a tasty treat.
Storage Info
How to Store Granola
Store your dark chocolate sea salt granola in airtight containers. Glass jars work well. They keep granola fresh and let you see the yummy snacks inside. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, your granola will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge. In the fridge, it can last up to a month. Just make sure to seal it tightly to keep air out.
Reheating Granola
If your granola gets a little stale, don’t worry. You can easily refresh it. Spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This will make it crunchy again. You can also microwave it for about 20 seconds, but the oven method gives it a better texture. Enjoy your crunchy snack delight!
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use other types of chocolate in this granola. If you like milk chocolate, it works well too. Just remember, it will taste sweeter. White chocolate is another option. It adds a creamy touch but lacks the rich flavor of dark chocolate. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite!
Is this granola gluten-free?
Yes, this granola can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free oats. Many oats are naturally gluten-free, but some may get cross-contaminated during processing. Look for oats labeled gluten-free. You can also use quinoa flakes or puffed rice as good alternatives if you want to switch things up.
How can I make this granola vegan?
To make this granola vegan, simply swap honey with agave syrup or date syrup. Both options add sweetness without any animal products. You can also ensure that your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Many brands offer vegan chocolate chips, so check the label before buying!
In this post, I shared how to make dark chocolate sea salt granola. You learned about the key ingredients, from oats to dark chocolate chips. I also covered step-by-step instructions for easy preparation. Plus, I shared tips for great texture, flavor, and storage.
Making this granola is simple and fun. You can tailor it to fit your taste. Enjoy your tasty and healthy snack! Try it out and share your results.
