Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick snack or a delightful treat to share with friends. Each bite is packed with rich cocoa, crunchy almonds, and the tropical sweetness of coconut. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and I can customize them with different nuts or seeds based on my mood. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast grab-and-go or a post-workout snack, these bites have quickly become a staple in my kitchen.
The first time I made these bites, I was surprised by how satisfying they turned out. The combination of chocolate and coconut is truly magical, and I can’t believe they are so simple to prepare. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor, as it enhances the overall taste and adds a nice richness that pairs perfectly with the coconut.
One of my favorite tips when making these granola bites is to toast the oats and almonds lightly before mixing them with the other ingredients. It brings out their flavors wonderfully, adding an irresistible crunch to each bite. Plus, the aroma fills the kitchen and makes cooking feel even more special!
Why You'll Love These
- Rich chocolate flavor perfectly balanced with coconut and almonds
- Nutty, chewy texture that satisfies any craving
- Great for meal prep – easy to store and grab on the go
Texture and Flavor Profile
These Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites deliver a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The chewiness of the oats combined with the crunch of chopped almonds creates a satisfying mouthfeel. The unsweetened shredded coconut adds a subtle tropical sweetness that wonderfully complements the rich, deep flavor of dark chocolate. The balance between the nutty almonds and the sweet coconut is what makes each bite a pleasurable experience, ensuring that you savor every morsel.
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using cocoa nibs in place of or alongside the chocolate chips. This will amplify the chocolate richness and introduce a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the coconut. Additionally, if you're a fan of spices, a dash of cinnamon can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile, making these bites even more irresistible.
Customizing Your Bites
One of the best aspects of these granola bites is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, substituting walnuts or pecans for almonds can provide a different flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a nut-free version, sunflower seeds are an excellent alternative that still offers a pleasant crunch without sacrificing nutrition.
In terms of sweeteners, while honey or maple syrup adds a nice touch of sweetness, you can try agave nectar or even a sugar-free syrup if you prefer a lower-sugar option. Keep in mind that the choice of sweetener can subtly alter the final texture, with maple syrup providing a slightly softer bite compared to the stickiness of honey.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Granola Bites
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup almonds, chopped
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Make sure to mix well so that all ingredients are evenly coated!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped almonds, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt.
Melt Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan, melt the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil together on low heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix Everything Together
Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Form the Bites
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool completely before serving.
These bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute the almonds with other nuts or seeds for a different flavor profile. Adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can add a nice sweetness and chewy texture!
Storage Tips
After baking, allow the granola bites to cool completely on the tray, which helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their lifespan, consider freezing them. Simply layer the bites between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months ready for a quick snack.
To enjoy these bites at their best, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will reintroduce some softness while retaining their delightful chewiness. They can also be quickly reheated in the microwave for about 10 seconds if you prefer them warm and melty.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easily scalable, making it simple to prepare larger batches for gatherings or meal prep. When doubling or tripling the recipe, rather than multiplying each ingredient, consider adjusting the proportions of certain ingredients slightly to maintain the right texture. Pay close attention to the liquid ingredients, and you might want to add a bit extra coconut oil and honey to ensure the mixture binds well.
If you find yourself with extra granola bite mix after shaping them into balls, simply press the mixture into a lined baking dish for granola bars instead. This alternative not only saves time but also offers a different snacking experience. Just remember to adjust the baking time, as bars may require a little longer in the oven, around 15-20 minutes until they’re set and browned on the edges.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other sweeteners?
Yes, you can use agave syrup or any other liquid sweeteners you prefer.
→ How do I store these granola bites?
Store the granola bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
→ What if I don't have coconut oil?
You can replace coconut oil with other oils like vegetable oil or melted butter, though the flavor may be slightly different.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
I absolutely love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick snack or a delightful treat to share with friends. Each bite is packed with rich cocoa, crunchy almonds, and the tropical sweetness of coconut. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and I can customize them with different nuts or seeds based on my mood. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast grab-and-go or a post-workout snack, these bites have quickly become a staple in my kitchen.
What You'll Need
Granola Bites
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup almonds, chopped
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped almonds, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt.
In a small saucepan, melt the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil together on low heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool completely before serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute the almonds with other nuts or seeds for a different flavor profile. Adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can add a nice sweetness and chewy texture!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g