Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters for a quick snack or breakfast option. They’re easy to prepare, and the combination of chocolate and almonds creates a delightful treat that satisfies sweet cravings without being overly indulgent. Preparing these clusters is a great way to experiment with your favorite nuts and add-ins. I often enjoy them with a cup of yogurt or simply on their own, and they always disappear quickly in my household!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:43:42.558Z

When I first tried making granola clusters, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it could be. I love experimenting with different combinations of nuts, seeds, and sweeteners. For these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters, the balance of dark chocolate and nutty almonds truly elevates the flavor. I've found that baking them slightly longer creates a delightful crunch.

One tip that really enhances these clusters is to let them cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them apart. This helps them hold their shape and ensures that I get those perfect crunchy bites. I've tried different chocolate types, but dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the almond flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Customizable with your favorite nuts and seeds
Perfectly sweet with a hint of salt for balance

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters plays a crucial role in both texture and flavor. Rolled oats are the base, providing fiber and a chewy texture. Slice them too thin, and they won’t hold together; too thick, and they won't crisp up nicely. Adjusting the thickness of your oats can significantly influence the final product, so find a balance that works for you.

Sliced almonds not only add crunch but also a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider swapping them for other nuts like walnuts or pecans. Just keep in mind that different nuts have varying oil contents, which can affect the clusters' cohesiveness. Toasting the nuts slightly before mixing can also enhance their flavor and should be done if using raw nuts.

Tips for Perfect Clusters

Forming the clusters might seem straightforward, but uniformity is key for even baking. If you find your mixture too dry to hold together, try adding an extra splash of coconut oil or sweetener. Additionally, using a cookie scoop can help achieve evenly sized clusters that will bake uniformly, ensuring that some don’t end up overcooked while others remain chewy.

When baking, it’s essential to keep an eye on your clusters as they near the end of the baking time. Look for a golden brown color and a toasty aroma. Elements like your oven’s calibration and the baking sheet material can influence cooking time, so don’t hesitate to pull them out a minute or two early if you notice they’re browning too fast.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters.

Granola Cluster Ingredients

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

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring everything is well-coated.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious granola clusters.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the oats and almonds are evenly coated.

Form Clusters

Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a cluster. Place the clusters on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between each.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Add Chocolate

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the warm clusters. Allow to cool on the baking sheet.

Serve

Once completely cooled, break clusters apart and enjoy them as a snack or breakfast topping!

These granola clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in your favorite seeds or dried fruits to customize these clusters to your taste. Experimenting with different sweeteners can also yield delightful variations.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These granola clusters store exceptionally well, making them a great snack to prepare in advance. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can also store them in the refrigerator, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to regain that delightful crunch.

For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled clusters in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. They will last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their warmth and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Try serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a balanced breakfast or snack. This combination not only adds creaminess but also boosts the nutritional profile with protein and vitamins.

You can also sprinkle these clusters on top of smoothie bowls or use them as a topping for ice cream. The contrast of cold creamy textures with crunchy clusters creates a delightful eating experience. Feel free to get creative and incorporate them into other desserts or as a standalone snack for a sweet but wholesome treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts like walnuts, pecans, or even peanuts.

→ How do I store the granola clusters?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ How can I make these more healthy?

Consider reducing the amount of sweetener or using less chocolate to suit your health preferences.