Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Modern Inspiration

I absolutely love indulging in a bowl of Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters for breakfast or as a snack! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds makes every bite irresistible. I love to prepare this recipe during the weekends when I have some time to spare, as the smell of baking fills the kitchen and the taste is simply divine. You'll find that making these clusters is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients, making it a winning addition to your recipe collection.

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:57:36.521Z

When I first came across the idea of making Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters, I was intrigued by how easy and customizable they seemed. I decided to experiment by adding my favorite ingredients, and the result was surprisingly delightful. The chocolate binds the granola, creating clusters that are both tasty and satisfying. I found that using a mix of almond butter and honey as a binding agent provides a perfectly chewy texture.

One important tip that I learned is to allow the clusters to cool completely before breaking them apart. This step ensures they hold their shape and creates the crunchy texture we all love. Trust me, once you give these a go, they’ll quickly become a staple in your pantry!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Perfect balance of sweet and salty in each bite
Great for breakfast or an on-the-go snack

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of this recipe, rolled oats, is not only nutritious but also provides a satisfying chewiness that complements the crunchy almonds. When choosing oats, look for certified gluten-free options if you're particularly sensitive to gluten. The use of almond butter introduces healthy fats and a creaminess that binds the clusters together, while honey or maple syrup adds a touch of natural sweetness that enhances the flavors of the nuts and chocolate.

Chopped almonds not only add texture but are rich in nutrients such as vitamin E and magnesium. You can substitute peanuts or walnuts if you prefer other nuts or need nut-free options. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor and experience of the final product. The dark chocolate chips provide a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness, making every bite a delightful experience.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Clusters

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it's essential to ensure that every oat and almond piece is coated evenly. This will help the clusters stick together during baking. If you find the mixture too dry, consider adding a bit more almond butter or a splash of water to create the right consistency before baking. The baking time is crucial; keep an eye on the granola, and look for a golden-brown hue on the edges for the perfect crispness while avoiding burnt bits.

After baking, let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling phase allows the clusters to firm up. If you break the granola apart too early, they may crumble rather than form the desired chunky texture. You can also experiment with baking times; for chewier clusters, reduce the baking time slightly, but be careful not to underbake, as this can lead to sogginess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure out your ingredients accurately for best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the almond butter and honey or maple syrup together. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips gently.

Bake

Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Break Apart

Let cool completely, then break into clusters and store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade clusters with yogurt, milk, or on their own!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider mixing in your favorite seeds or dried fruits in the mixture before baking.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters have cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can stay good for up to two weeks at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to a month. If you want to extend their shelf life even further, consider freezing your granola. Just be sure to pack it in a freezer-safe container, and it should last up to three months.

For easy snacking later, portion the granola into resealable bags before freezing. This way, you can grab them on the go without thawing the entire batch. If you find your granola losing its crunch after a few days, a quick reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes will help restore that delightful crispiness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters are incredibly versatile. While they shine as a stand-alone snack or breakfast option with milk or yogurt, you can also use them as a topping for smoothie bowls or oatmeal. For an extra touch, try drizzling some nut butter or honey over your yogurt and then topping it with the granola for added flavor and texture.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can add a chewy contrast, and seeds such as chia or sunflower seeds can enhance the nutritional profile. Just be mindful to keep the overall ratios balanced so that the clusters maintain their form during baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter or another nut butter of your choice.

→ How should I store the granola clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can skip the chocolate chips for a more nutritious version.

→ Are these clusters gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is gluten-free.