Decadent Chocolate Nut Granola
Indulge in this delightful Decadent Chocolate Nut Granola, a perfect blend of wholesome oats, crispy rice cereal, and rich, bittersweet chocolate. This satisfying granola can be enjoyed on its own, sprinkled over creamy yogurt, with fresh seasonal fruits, or drizzled over ice cream for an irresistible treat. The combination of crunchy pecans and chewy cranberries adds texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Pack it in an airtight container for up to a week, or store it in the freezer for up to a month to always have a delicious snack on hand.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cooking spray
to coat (for greasing)
Oats
3 cups (old-fashioned or rolled)
Oven-toasted crispy rice cereal
1 cup (such as Rice Krispies)
Brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
Chopped pecans
1/3 cup (toasted if desired)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (fine)
Ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Honey
1/4 cup
Canola oil
2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (pure)
Bittersweet chocolate
2 ounces (finely chopped (60 to 70% cocoa))
Dried cranberries
1/2 cup
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2
Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a large bowl, combine the oats, crispy rice cereal, brown sugar, chopped pecans, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and canola oil. Cook for about 2 minutes or just until warm. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and finely chopped bittersweet chocolate until smooth and well mixed.
5
Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the oat mixture. Coat your hands with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and gently mix the two mixtures together until all the oats and cereals are evenly coated with the chocolate.
6
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared jelly roll pan.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
8
Once baked, allow the granola to cool completely on the pan before stirring in the dried cranberries.
9
Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Chocolate Nut Granola?
It is a crunchy blend of old-fashioned oats, crispy rice cereal, pecans, and bittersweet chocolate, sweetened with honey and brown sugar.
What kind of oats are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of old-fashioned or rolled oats for the best texture.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of the 1/3 cup of chopped pecans.
How do I prevent the granola from sticking to the pan?
Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) for gentle baking.
How much brown sugar is used in this granola?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar.
What type of crispy rice cereal should I use?
Use oven-toasted crispy rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies, to add extra crunch.
How do I prepare the chocolate for mixing?
Finely chop 2 ounces of bittersweet chocolate (60 to 70% cocoa) so it melts smoothly into the warm honey and oil.
How do I combine the wet and dry ingredients?
Coat your hands with cooking spray and gently mix the warm chocolate-honey mixture into the oats until evenly coated.
How long should the granola bake?
Bake the granola for a total of 20 minutes.
Do I need to stir the granola while it is in the oven?
Yes, stir the mixture halfway through the baking time to ensure it cooks evenly.
When should I add the dried cranberries?
Wait until the granola has cooled completely on the pan before stirring in the 1/2 cup of dried cranberries.
How should I store the finished granola?
Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container and store it at room temperature.
How long does the granola stay fresh?
It can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
Can this granola be frozen for later use?
Yes, you can store it in the freezer for up to one month.
Is there cinnamon in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground cinnamon is included for flavor.
What kind of honey is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of honey to help bind the ingredients and provide sweetness.
Can I use a different type of oil?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of canola oil, but other neutral-flavored oils can be used.
What are some serving suggestions for this granola?
Enjoy it on its own, over yogurt, with fresh fruits, or as a topping for ice cream.
Is this recipe considered a healthy snack?
The recipe is tagged as 'healthy' and 'homemade,' featuring wholesome oats and nuts.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
Bittersweet chocolate with 60 to 70% cocoa is recommended for a rich, decadent flavor.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Can I add other dried fruits besides cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute or add other dried fruits like raisins or dried cherries after the granola has cooled.
Why do I need to heat the honey and oil?
Heating them for about 2 minutes allows the chocolate to melt into a smooth mixture that coats the oats easily.
What size pan should I use?
A jelly roll pan is ideal as its rimmed edges keep the granola contained during stirring.
How do I know the granola is finished baking?
It should be fragrant and lightly toasted after 20 minutes at 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I make this granola vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Should the pecans be toasted before adding?
You can use toasted pecans if desired for a deeper nutty flavor.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt to balance the sweetness.
Is this granola suitable for breakfast?
Yes, it is a perfect breakfast option when served with milk or yogurt.