Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I love making these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters for a delicious and satisfying snack. The perfect blend of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and wholesome oats makes them a treat I can enjoy any time of day. Their delightful texture and flavor are irresistible, and they’re quick to whip up when a craving strikes. Whether I’m snacking before a workout or needing a pick-me-up in the afternoon, these clusters never disappoint. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to control portion sizes while still indulging in something sweet.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:20.905Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters, I was amazed by how easy and quick they were to prepare. The secret is in using just the right amount of chocolate to stick everything together while keeping that crunchy texture I love. I found that lightly roasting the almonds before adding them enhances their flavor, creating a perfect balance with the sweetness of the chocolate and the oats.

Additionally, I learned that letting the clusters cool completely before breaking them apart makes a significant difference in their texture. This ensures that they hold together beautifully, resulting in perfectly shaped, crunchy bites. I always store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness, so they can last throughout the week!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Perfectly sweet yet wholesome for guilt-free snacking
Customizable with your favorite nuts and seeds

      

Ingredient Highlights

The combination of rolled oats and chopped almonds is what gives the Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters their satisfying crunch. Rolled oats provide a hearty base rich in fiber, which is great for keeping you feeling full longer. Using chopped almonds adds a delightful nuttiness, but feel free to mix it up by adding your favorite nuts like walnuts or pecans for a new flavor twist. Just ensure that whatever nuts you choose are chopped to similar sizes for even baking.

Cocoa powder is the star of this recipe, enticing you with its rich chocolate flavor while maintaining a healthy edge. Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the sweetness balanced; this allows the clusters to remain guilt-free. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense chocolate experience, consider using a darker cocoa or adding a touch more cocoa powder, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors in the mix.

Technique Tips

When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure they are well combined before adding the wet mixture. This helps distribute the cocoa and salt evenly, ensuring that every bite packs the same delightful flavor. I like to use a whisk to break up any clumps of cocoa powder for a more uniform texture. If you notice some dry ingredients sticking to the bottom of the bowl, gently use a spatula to scrape and incorporate them into the mixture.

Forming the clusters is another key step. By pressing the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet, you are enabling the clusters to hold together better during baking. If they seem loose, don't hesitate to give them a tighter squeeze—this will help them achieve that coveted cluster shape and prevent them from crumbling apart once cooled. Remember, presentation matters, and well-formed clusters are not only visually appealing but also easier to grab for snacking!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready for smooth preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your granola clusters:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Form Clusters

Scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it firmly to form clusters.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Store

Allow the clusters to cool completely before breaking them into pieces. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also substitute other nuts or dried fruits based on your preference.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters are best stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If stored correctly, you can expect them to last for about a week at room temperature. For extended shelf life, consider refrigerating them; this can help retain their crunchiness, especially in humid environments. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup that could lead to sogginess.

If you're preparing these clusters for later use, you might consider freezing them. They freeze well, and you can store them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to regain their texture, or microwave them briefly for a quick warm treat.

Serving Suggestions

These granola clusters are incredibly versatile! Enjoy them on their own as a quick snack, or mix them into yogurt for a delicious breakfast or dessert. The contrast of creamy yogurt with the crunchy clusters offers a satisfying texture combo, and you can pair it with fresh fruit for added flavor and nutrition. I often add a handful of berries or sliced bananas to mine, elevating this snack to a wholesome meal.

Another fun idea is to use the clusters as a topping for homemade smoothie bowls. Their crunchy texture complements the creaminess of the smoothie, making each spoonful enjoyable. You might also consider incorporating crushed clusters into baked goods, such as cookies or muffins, to add an extra crunch and a burst of chocolatey goodness throughout the treat. Don't be afraid to experiment and find new ways to enjoy these delicious clusters!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the almonds for your favorite nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

→ How long do these clusters last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

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

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Certainly! Consider adding dried fruits or seeds to enhance flavor and nutrition.