Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I absolutely love making my own snacks, and these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters are a perfect blend of flavor and crunch that keeps me reaching for more. Combining oats, almonds, and rich dark chocolate, these clusters provide a satisfying nibble whether I’m on the go or simply enjoying a cozy evening. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up! I can customize them by adding my favorite nuts or dried fruits, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:10:18.753Z

When I first attempted to make my own granola, I was amazed at the freedom it provided. I could play with flavors, textures, and ingredients, tailoring everything to my tastes. The inaugural batch of Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters was a standout—just the right balance of sweetness and a hint of salt from the almonds.

What truly set this recipe apart was the addition of dark chocolate. It melted perfectly into the mixture, binding the clusters together while providing an indulgent taste. I recommend using high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Experimenting with different nut combinations made every batch a delightful surprise!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Perfectly bite-sized for on-the-go snacking
Simple ingredients you probably already have at home

      

The Perfect Balance of Ingredients

The combination of oats and almonds in this recipe creates an ideal texture. The rolled oats provide chewiness while the chopped almonds add a delightful crunch. Both ingredients also serve as great sources of fiber, keeping you satisfied longer. When mixing the ingredients, be sure to coat everything evenly with the melted coconut oil, as this is crucial for achieving the clusters' signature crunchy texture after baking.

Using honey or maple syrup not only serves as a sweetener but also acts as a binding agent, helping the clusters hold their shape. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, stick with pure maple syrup. Adjust the quantity to your taste, but keep in mind that reducing the sweetness too much may affect the final texture of the clusters.

Baking for the Perfect Crunch

Baking time is essential for achieving that golden-brown finish. I recommend checking the clusters at the 15-minute mark; they should be turning golden with a slightly crispy texture at the edges. If you prefer a crunchier version, feel free to add an extra 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially if using convection settings or dark baking sheets, which can accelerate browning.

Remember to stir the mixture halfway through baking to encourage even crispness. This will help prevent some clusters from becoming too hard while others might remain soft. If you notice they’re not clustering properly, use the back of a spatula to gently press them together as they cool.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these tasty granola clusters:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple 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 Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, melted coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is coated.

Shape Clusters

Scoop out small portions of the mixture and form clusters, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between them.

Bake

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Add Chocolate

Remove from the oven and while still warm, sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Allow the heat to melt them slightly before gently pressing them into the clusters.

Cool and Serve

Let the clusters cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before enjoying or storing them.

Enjoy your homemade granola clusters as a snack, topping, or even gift!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating other nuts or seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon into the mixture before baking. You can also adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the amount of honey or maple syrup used.

Customizing Your Clusters

One of the best things about these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters is how easily they can be customized. Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also add a lovely touch of sweetness and chewiness. Just make sure to keep a similar amount by adjusting your nuts or oats accordingly to maintain the balance and texture.

For a speedier preparation, consider prepping a double batch. These clusters store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are fully cooled first, and layer them carefully with parchment to avoid sticking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your clusters seem to crumble instead of holding together, it might be due to insufficient binding ingredients. A little more honey or syrup during mixing can help create a stickier consistency. Alternatively, consider adding an extra tablespoon of coconut oil to help the mixture adhere better as it bakes.

Conversely, if you've overbaked them and they become too hard, storing them in a sealed container with a slice of apple or a damp paper towel can help soften them over time. This method can reintroduce some moisture back into the cluster, making each bite more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?

Absolutely! You can use walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds depending on your preference.

→ How should I store the granola clusters?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or store in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I use different sweeteners?

Yes, you can substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup based on your dietary needs.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

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