Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
When I crave a sweet snack, I love whipping up these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites. They’re simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. This recipe combines crunchy almonds and chewy coconut with rich dark chocolate, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether I need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon or a portable treat for a busy day, these bites are my go-to choice. Plus, they’re easy to store and perfect for sharing, though I often find myself wanting to keep them all to myself!
Making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites became a fun experiment in my kitchen. I started with a basic granola recipe and added yogurt to bind it, which resulted in a creamier texture. I sometimes sprinkle a little sea salt on top right before baking, and it enhances the flavors beautifully.
Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy and chewy that I can make ahead of time and store in the fridge. The pairs of chocolate and coconut also remind me of tropical vacations, making these bites a little piece of paradise whenever I indulge.
Why You'll Love These Bites
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
- Chewy coconut pieces for a tropical twist
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Perfecting Your Granola Bites
To achieve the ideal texture for your Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites, it’s essential to maintain the right balance of dry and wet ingredients. The combination of rolled oats and shredded coconut provides a hearty base, while almond butter and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup bind the mixture together. If you find the mixture too dry to hold shape, you can add a little more almond butter or a splash of milk to help it adhere.
Baking time is another crucial factor for getting those perfect bites. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want the granola bites to turn a beautiful golden color. If you overbake them, they can become too crunchy rather than chewy. I recommend setting a timer for 8 minutes and checking them. If they need more time, add in 1-2 minute increments.
Ingredient Insights
The choice of chocolate is key to the overall flavor of your granola bites. Dark chocolate chips provide a rich, indulgent taste without overpowering the other ingredients. If you prefer a dairy-free option, make sure to select vegan dark chocolate. Alternatively, you can substitute with carob chips if you're avoiding caffeine altogether. This substitution will alter the flavor profile slightly but keeps the bites deliciously sweet.
Almonds, in this recipe, not only add a nutty flavor but also bring beneficial nutrients such as healthy fats and protein. If you're nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be excellent substitutes, maintaining the bite's texture while catering to various dietary needs.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started making these delicious granola bites:
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you are all set to start preparing the bites!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites:
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, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir well until everything is evenly coated. Add the dark chocolate chips and mix again.
Shape the Bites
Use your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
Your homemade Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites are now ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a tablespoon of chia seeds to the mixture.
Storage Tips
Once your granola bites have cooled, it’s best to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for up to a week on your countertop, or if you want to keep them longer, consider refrigeration, where they can last for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying them for the best texture.
For long-term storage, these bites freeze well! Simply layer them between pieces of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just take out a few bites and let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites make for a versatile snack option. You can enjoy them on their own for a quick energy boost or serve them alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Crushed bits can also be sprinkled over ice cream or blended with smoothie bowls to add texture and flavor.
Feel free to experiment with flavors by incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots into the mix, or by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Such additions can customize the bites to suit your taste preferences and keep your snacking experience exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! You can substitute any nuts you like, such as walnuts or pecans.
→ Can I make these granola bites vegan?
Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
→ How should I store these bites?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
→ Can I freeze these granola bites?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
When I crave a sweet snack, I love whipping up these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites. They’re simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. This recipe combines crunchy almonds and chewy coconut with rich dark chocolate, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether I need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon or a portable treat for a busy day, these bites are my go-to choice. Plus, they’re easy to store and perfect for sharing, though I often find myself wanting to keep them all to myself!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir well until everything is evenly coated. Add the dark chocolate chips and mix again.
Use your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a tablespoon of chia seeds to the mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g