Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I love making my own granola clusters at home, and these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters have quickly become a favorite! They combine crunchy almonds and chewy coconut with rich chocolate, creating a delightful snack that's perfect for any time of day. I enjoy preparing these as a healthy treat for my family, and they are super easy to whip up! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and delicious snack that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:22:13.454Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters was an absolute joy! I experimented with different combinations of nuts and dried fruits but found that the blend of almonds and coconut pairs beautifully with the richness of chocolate. I appreciate that the clusters hold together beautifully, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking.

While preparing them, I learned that letting the mixture cool slightly before forming clusters helps them stick together better. And I enjoy sharing them with my friends—everyone always asks for the recipe! They're a delightful addition to my snack routine.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crunchy almonds add a satisfying texture
Rich chocolate flavor paired with coconut sweetness
Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats, sliced almonds, and shredded coconut forms the backbone of these granola clusters. Rolled oats provide a hearty texture and are an excellent source of fiber, helping to keep you full longer. Sliced almonds contribute a satisfying crunch and healthy fats, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to control the sweetness level, as the honey or maple syrup adds enough natural sweetness on its own.

Cocoa powder is crucial for these clusters, providing a rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar found in chocolate chips. I recommend using high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for optimal flavor. The balance of cocoa and sweetness with honey or maple syrup creates a deliciously decadent treat that feels indulgent while remaining nutritious. Just make sure to mix the dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution of the cocoa.

Baking Tips for Perfect Clusters

Baking granola clusters requires careful attention to time and temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake. Keep a close eye on the clusters while they bake, as different ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. Look for a golden brown color around the edges and a slight crispness. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and extend the baking time by a few minutes.

Forming clusters by hand helps achieve that coveted clumpiness, ensuring they hold together during baking. Don't be afraid to pack the mixture tightly when forming the clusters—this helps them stick together better. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them into clusters. This cooling time is essential for them to firm up and maintain their shape.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious granola clusters:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you are set to start making your granola clusters!

Instructions

Here's how to make Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

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

Form Clusters

Using your hands, form small clusters of the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before breaking into clusters.

Enjoy your homemade granola clusters as a snack or breakfast option!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your clusters with other nuts or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Clusters make for an excellent make-ahead snack. After they cool completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate them for up to a month. If you prefer a longer shelf life, consider freezing the clusters. They can be frozen in a resealable bag for up to three months. Just remember to label the bags with the date so you can enjoy them at their best! Don't thaw; simply grab a handful when you're ready to snack.

To keep the clusters fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy, avoid leaving them in humid environments. If you notice any moisture in the container after a few days, consider transferring them to a crisp dry bag with a silica gel packet; this will help absorb any excess moisture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize these clusters to suit your taste! For a nuttier flavor, you could substitute the sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the dry mixture for an added dimension. You can also incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots into the mixture before baking to provide a sweet and chewy contrast to the crunchy texture.

If you want to enhance the chocolate flavor, fold in mini chocolate chips after baking. Just keep in mind that adding any extra ingredients may affect the baking time slightly, so watch for golden edges to confirm they're done. With these variations, you can recreate this recipe time and again with new flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different sweeteners?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or brown sugar if desired.

→ How should I store the granola clusters?

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

→ Can I freeze these granola clusters?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them before enjoying.

→ What can I add to the recipe?

You can add dried fruits, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor kick.