Decadent Cherry Chocolate Granola
Indulge in the perfect blend of crunchy oats, rich chocolate, and sweet cherries with our Decadent Cherry Chocolate Granola. This delightful breakfast treat is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it an ideal way to kickstart your day or an energizing snack for any time. Enjoy it on its own, with yogurt, or sprinkled atop your favorite smoothie bowl. Whip up a batch today, and share this delicious recipe with family and friends to spread the joy of homemade granola!
24
Servings
104
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
oats
5 cups (rolled)
pecans
1 cup (chopped)
coconut
1/2 cup (shredded)
wheat germ
1/2 cup (optional)
brown sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (fine)
oil
1/3 cup (neutral flavored like canola or coconut)
water
1/3 cup (room temperature)
honey
1/3 cup (raw or pure)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
mini chocolate chips
1/2-1 cup (based on preference)
dried cherries
1/2-1 cup (chopped if large)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, wheat germ (if using), brown sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, water, and vanilla extract until well blended.
4
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredient mix. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir thoroughly until all components are fully coated.
5
Spread the mixture evenly onto a large cookie sheet, ensuring it is not piled too high to allow for even cooking.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent sticking and promote even browning. The granola is done when it's lightly golden brown.
7
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
8
Once cooled, stir in the dried cherries and mini chocolate chips. Mix well so that they are evenly distributed throughout the granola.
9
Transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy it as a breakfast or snack option!
Nutrition Information
4.8g
Fat
14.5g
Carbs
2.4g
Protein
1.7g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Cherry Chocolate Granola?
It is a crunchy, homemade breakfast treat or snack made with rolled oats, pecans, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and dried cherries.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 24 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 104 calories.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
How long should I bake the granola?
The granola should bake for 30 to 40 minutes until it is lightly golden brown.
How often should the granola be stirred while baking?
You should stir the granola every 10 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
When do I add the mini chocolate chips?
Add the chocolate chips only after the granola has cooled completely on the baking sheet.
When should the dried cherries be added?
The dried cherries should be stirred in once the granola has cooled completely.
What type of oats are recommended?
The recipe calls for 5 cups of rolled oats.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and ensuring your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
What kind of oil should I use?
Use a neutral-flavored oil such as canola or coconut oil.
Is wheat germ necessary for this recipe?
No, wheat germ is an optional ingredient in this recipe.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 2.4g of protein per serving.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 4.8g of fat.
How much fiber does this granola provide?
Each serving provides 1.7g of fiber.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 14.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains 2.5g of sugar.
What kind of nuts are used in this granola?
The recipe uses 1 cup of chopped pecans.
How should I store the finished granola?
Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container for storage.
Can I substitute the pecans?
Yes, you can substitute them with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or omit them for a nut-free version.
What is the purpose of adding water to the wet ingredients?
Water helps to distribute the honey and oil evenly over the dry ingredients without adding excessive fat.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, but mini chips provide better distribution throughout the granola.
How do I know when the granola is done baking?
It is done when it appears lightly golden brown and smells toasted.
What type of coconut is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of shredded coconut.
Is there salt in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt is used to enhance the flavor.
What kind of honey is best?
The recipe suggests using raw or pure honey.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
What can I serve this granola with?
It is excellent on its own, with yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls.
Does this granola contain cholesterol?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the cholesterol content is null or negligible.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 12 ingredients in this recipe.