Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites for a quick and healthy snack. They are incredibly easy to prepare and are perfect for those busy days when I need a nutritious pick-me-up. With a blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut, these bites are not only delicious but also satisfying. I often make a batch to keep in my fridge for when a craving hits, and I love how they provide sustained energy without any guilt. They truly are a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients!
When I first created these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites, I wanted a healthy snack that I could prepare ahead of time. One of my favorite elements of this recipe is how versatile it is; you can easily swap out nuts or add seeds to customize the flavors. I recommend toasting the almonds lightly before mixing them in to bring out their rich flavor, which adds an extra layer of depth to these bites.
Making them is a breeze: just mix everything in a bowl, mold them into bites, and let them chill. The combination of chocolate and coconut is divine; they remind me of my favorite treats without all the sugar. If you’re looking for a quick energy boost or need something to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt, give these a try!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet chocolate paired with crunchy almonds and chewy coconut
- Quick to prepare and no baking required
- Perfect for energy-boosting snacks on the go
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of rolled oats, almond butter, and shredded coconut forms the foundation of these granola bites. Rolled oats provide not only bulk but also a satisfying chewy texture, while almond butter offers healthy fats and protein that contribute to the bites' richness. If you're allergic to nuts, sunflower seed butter can be a great alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Coconut is essential for those chewy bites. It adds a mild sweetness and texture that ideally complements the crunchiness of the chopped almonds. Make sure to use unsweetened shredded coconut for a healthier option; this helps you control the overall sweetness of the granola bites while still keeping that enjoyable coconut flavor.
Perfecting the Process
When mixing the ingredients, ensure that everything is fully incorporated, as this helps achieve a consistent texture throughout the bites. I suggest using a sturdy spatula or your hands to mix; just make sure your hands are clean! If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, add a little more almond butter or a splash of water to bind it together better.
After rolling the mixture into balls, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet prevents them from sticking, allowing for an easier transfer to the fridge. If you're in a hurry, consider flattening them slightly into bars instead. This can cut down on chilling time, and they’ll still make for a convenient on-the-go snack.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your granola bites:
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your granola bites:
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), shredded coconut, chopped almonds, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.
Form the Bites
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill
Refrigerate the granola bites for about 30 minutes, until firm. Once set, you can store them in an airtight container.
Enjoy your healthy snack at any time of the day!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds based on your preference. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor!
Storage and Shelf Life
Once chilled and firm, these granola bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking and extend their shelf life up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying for the best texture.
For best results, avoid leaving these granola bites at room temperature for extended periods, as they can soften and lose their shape. If you're heading out for a day trip, pack a few in a small container for an energy-boosting snack without the risk of them getting mushy.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this granola bite recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap the dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer a different flavor profile. Alternatively, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can replace some almonds for added sweetness and chewiness.
Feel free to mix in superfood ingredients like chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutritional punch. These tiny seeds pack a significant amount of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Just keep in mind that adding too many dry ingredients might require you to adjust the binding agent, whether it's almond butter or honey.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, peanut butter works well as a substitute if you prefer its flavor.
→ How should I store these granola bites?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make these granola bites vegan?
Absolutely, just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
→ What can I substitute for the almonds?
You can use any kind of nut or seed, such as walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds, depending on your taste.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites for a quick and healthy snack. They are incredibly easy to prepare and are perfect for those busy days when I need a nutritious pick-me-up. With a blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut, these bites are not only delicious but also satisfying. I often make a batch to keep in my fridge for when a craving hits, and I love how they provide sustained energy without any guilt. They truly are a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), shredded coconut, chopped almonds, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the granola bites for about 30 minutes, until firm. Once set, you can store them in an airtight container.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds based on your preference. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g