Easy Chocolate Almond Granola Recipe – Oats, Dates & Cocoa

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Chocolate Almond Granola Recipe – Oats, Dates & Cocoa

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s for a chocolate almond granola that’s seriously addictive. I first made this when I was craving something sweet and crunchy, but didn’t want to reach for a biscuit. It’s become a weekend staple in my house, and I know it’ll be in yours too! It’s super easy to make, and the combination of oats, dates, almonds, and cocoa is just chef’s kiss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This granola isn’t just delicious; it’s also pretty great for you! It’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to start your day, or to have as a snack when that afternoon slump hits. Honestly, it’s just a feel-good food. And who doesn’t need a little more of that?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this chocolatey goodness:

• 2 cups Rolled Oats
• 3 tablespoon Cocoa Powder
• 0.25 cup Almonds
• 0.25 cup Chopped Dates
• 1 tablespoon Raisins
• 1.5 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 3 tablespoon Honey
• 3 drops Vanilla Essence
• 1 pinch Salt
• 2 tablespoon Oil

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Rolled Oats: Types & Benefits

Rolled oats (about 150g) are the star here. I prefer using old-fashioned rolled oats, as they hold their shape better during baking. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but the granola will be a bit more crumbly. Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied.

Cocoa Powder: Choosing the Right Kind

For the cocoa powder (about 20g), I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give a smoother, less acidic flavor, but natural cocoa powder works beautifully too!

Almonds & Dates: A Nutritious Combination

Almonds (about 30g) add a lovely crunch and healthy fats. Dates (about 40g) provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Feel free to roughly chop the almonds and dates – no need to be perfect!

Honey: Regional Variations & Substitutes

Honey (about 45ml) is my go-to sweetener, but you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. Indian honey varieties like Jamun or Eucalyptus honey can add a unique floral note!

Oil: Best Oils for Granola – Coconut, Olive, or Sunflower?

I usually use sunflower oil (about 30ml) for its neutral flavor. Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut taste, which is also delicious! A light olive oil works well too, but be mindful of its flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking!

1. First things first, chop your almonds and dates. Get all your ingredients measured out and ready to go – it makes the process so much smoother.
2. In a pan, combine the oil, cocoa powder, salt, brown sugar, and honey. Gently mix everything together without heating it. We just want to combine the flavors.
3. Pour that lovely chocolate sauce over your rolled oats, almonds, dates, raisins, and vanilla essence in a mixing bowl. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly coated.
4. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the tray.
5. Bake for 25-28 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes after the first 15 minutes. This ensures even roasting and prevents burning. Keep a close eye on it!
6. Once it’s golden brown and smells amazing, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely. This is important – it will crisp up as it cools. Once cool, break it into clusters and store it in an airtight container.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the cooling time! It’s crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
• Stirring halfway through baking is key for even roasting.
• For extra flavor, try toasting the almonds lightly before adding them to the mixture.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Chocolate Almond Granola

Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Almond Granola

Make sure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free.

Adjusting Spice Levels (Adding Cinnamon or Cardamom)

My friend, Priya, loves adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom to the mix. It adds a lovely warmth!

Festival Adaptations (Diwali/Christmas Gift Granola)

Package this granola in pretty jars and tie with a ribbon – it makes a wonderful homemade gift! During Diwali, I sometimes add a sprinkle of edible silver leaf for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This granola is amazing on its own as a snack. But it’s also fantastic:

• With yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast.
• Sprinkled over ice cream.
• As a topping for smoothie bowls.
• Straight out of the jar (no judgement here!).

Storage Instructions

Store your cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. It might lose some of its crunch over time, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the best way to prevent granola from becoming soggy?

Make sure it’s completely cool before storing it. Moisture is the enemy! An airtight container is also essential.

Can I use different nuts and dried fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, cranberries, or apricots would all be delicious additions.

How can I make the granola clusters bigger?

Press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking tray before baking. Don’t stir it too much during the first 15 minutes of baking.

What’s the shelf life of homemade granola?

About 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can this granola be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container.