Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites for a healthy yet indulgent snack. They are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut. Honestly, they satisfy my sweet cravings without the guilt. I can whip them up in no time, and having them on hand makes healthier snacking easier throughout the week. Whether I need a quick breakfast or a post-workout treat, these bites never disappoint!
When I first came across this recipe, I was intrigued by the combination of chocolate and coconut, two of my favorite ingredients. It was a hit from the first batch! The key is to toast the oats lightly, which enhances their flavor when mixed with warm honey and cocoa. I also like to use dark chocolate for an added depth that's hard to resist.
Making these bites is not just about flavor, but also about nutrition. Each bite packs a good amount of healthy fats and some fiber, making them a surprisingly filling snack. I suggest rolling them in extra coconut for a beautiful finish and added texture!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crunchy yet chewy texture.
- Nutty flavor balanced with a hint of dark chocolate.
- Quick and easy to make with minimal equipment.
Ingredient Insights
The star of these granola bites is almond butter, which not only provides a creamy texture but also contributes healthy fats and protein. When choosing almond butter, look for a brand with minimal added ingredients; pure almond butter without added sugars or oils will yield the best flavor and health benefits. If you're allergic to nuts, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative that holds similar texture and flavor in this recipe.
Honey and maple syrup serve as natural sweeteners in this recipe, but they also provide moisture, helping the bites hold together. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness—using less honey or syrup can create a less sweet but equally satisfying bite. If you want to replace the liquid sweeteners entirely, a mashed banana or applesauce could work but will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Chilling and Setting
After forming the bites, chilling them is crucial for achieving the right consistency. If you skim on this step, the bites may fall apart when you try to pick them up. If you're in a hurry, a quick 15-minute chill is usually sufficient, but if you can, allow them to chill a bit longer—up to 30 minutes—for a firmer texture. Just make sure to cover them during chilling to prevent them from absorbing any odors from your fridge.
If the mixture feels too sticky to mold into bites, consider adding a tablespoon of oats or additional cocoa powder to balance the moisture. Conversely, if the mixture is too dry and crumbly, a splash of almond milk or another liquid sweetener can help bring it back together. Finding this balance is key to ensuring each bite holds its shape while remaining deliciously chewy.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
These ingredients are simple and can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to add in other nuts or substitute honey with agave for a vegan option!
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toast the Oats and Coconut
Spread the rolled oats and shredded coconut on the lined baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix until well combined.
Combine and Form Bites
Add the toasted oats and coconut to the wet mixture along with chopped almonds. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls, placing them on a plate or tray.
Chill and Set
Refrigerate the granola bites for at least 15 minutes to allow them to set. Enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert!
Store the granola bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- For a fun twist, try adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mixture! You can also experiment with different nut butters for unique flavors.
Storage Tips
These Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. However, for optimal freshness, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. If you plan to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the bites. For freezing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to eat a frozen bite, just let it thaw for a few minutes at room temperature, or pop it into your lunch bag to enjoy as it defrosts throughout the day. I love packing a few of these bites into my gym bag for a quick post-workout treat, knowing they’ll be perfectly ready to eat when I need them.
Serving Suggestions
While these granola bites are delicious on their own, you can also elevate your snacking experience by pairing them with yogurt or fresh fruit. A dollop of Greek yogurt with a few bites on the side makes for a protein-rich breakfast. Alternatively, serve them alongside sliced bananas or berries for a satisfying breakfast that feels indulgent yet healthy.
For an extra indulgent treat, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the bites before they set. This adds an extra layer of richness that chocolate lovers will truly appreciate. Just be sure to let the drizzle set before storing or serving so they don’t stick together.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter works great.
→ How do I store the granola bites?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
→ Can these bites be frozen?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
→ Are these granola bites gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites for a healthy yet indulgent snack. They are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut. Honestly, they satisfy my sweet cravings without the guilt. I can whip them up in no time, and having them on hand makes healthier snacking easier throughout the week. Whether I need a quick breakfast or a post-workout treat, these bites never disappoint!
What You'll Need
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the rolled oats and shredded coconut on the lined baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix until well combined.
Add the toasted oats and coconut to the wet mixture along with chopped almonds. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls, placing them on a plate or tray.
Refrigerate the granola bites for at least 15 minutes to allow them to set. Enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert!
Extra Tips
- For a fun twist, try adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mixture! You can also experiment with different nut butters for unique flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g