Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick snack or sweet treat. Each bite is packed with rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and the delightful flavor of coconut. Not only are these bites easy to prepare, but they also satisfy my chocolate cravings without the guilt. I often find that when I have a batch ready in the fridge, they're the perfect energy boost throughout my busy day. Plus, they store well, making them ideal for meal prep or a healthy on-the-go option.
When I first experimented with these granola bites, I didn't expect how well chocolate and coconut would pair. The key is using the right balance of ingredients; too much chocolate can overpower the other flavors, but just the right amount creates a delightful harmony. I often add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.
Another tip I've learned is to let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps the bites to firm up and hold their shape, making them much easier to grab-and-go. They quickly became a staple in my household!
Why You'll Love These Bites
- Nutty crunch from the almonds perfectly balances the sweetness
- No-bake recipe means less heat in the kitchen
- Versatile ingredients: customize with your favorite nuts and seeds
The Role of Ingredients
Each ingredient in these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. Rolled oats serve as the base, providing a chewy consistency, while coconut flakes add a light, tropical sweetness. The chopped almonds contribute not only crunch but also healthy fats and protein, making these bites more filling. Dark chocolate chips offer a rich, indulgent taste with a hint of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness from the honey or maple syrup.
Using almond butter is key for binding the ingredients together while enhancing the nutty flavor of the bites. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully, though the flavor will shift slightly. Always ensure that any nut or seed butter you choose is smooth and well-blended for the best texture.
Chilling and Firming
The chilling process is essential for these bites to hold their shape. When you refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour, the almond butter and sweetener firm up, making it easier to form the mixture into cohesive balls. It’s important not to skip this step; otherwise, your bites may fall apart when you try to pick them up or store them.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also place the bites in the freezer for about 20–30 minutes. This quick chill will achieve a similar firm consistency more rapidly. Keep an eye on them; over-chilling can make them too hard to enjoy right away. I find that allowing them to sit at room temperature briefly after chilling offers the perfect texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Granola Bites Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, coconut flakes, chopped almonds, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Form Bites
Using your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill
Refrigerate the granola bites for at least 1 hour or until they are firm.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can swap half of the almonds for your favorite nuts or add in some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites are also delightful when rolled in more coconut flakes before chilling.
Customizing Your Bites
One of the greatest aspects of these granola bites is their versatility. You can easily adjust the nuts and seeds based on your pantry's contents or personal preferences. Consider adding walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile, or incorporating chia seeds for an extra nutrient boost. Just remember to maintain the overall ratios of dry to wet ingredients to keep the right consistency.
To amp up the chocolate factor, try adding cocoa powder to the mixture or switching the dark chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate versions. For a tropical twist, stir in dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or pineapple chunks. Each variation can breathe new life into this simple recipe, making it worth trying multiple times.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
These bites are perfect for meal prep, storing well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, where they’ll last about 2-3 months. Just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before snacking.
For an on-the-go option, consider packaging individual bites in small bags, making it easy to grab a snack when time is tight. These bites are also great for lunchboxes or as post-workout fuel due to their balanced combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. You’ll have a satisfying treat at hand, ready to keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can use any nut you prefer, such as walnuts or pecans.
→ How long can I store these granola bites?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Are these granola bites vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup and plant-based chocolate chips, they are vegan-friendly.
→ Can I freeze the granola bites?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just let them defrost before enjoying.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick snack or sweet treat. Each bite is packed with rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and the delightful flavor of coconut. Not only are these bites easy to prepare, but they also satisfy my chocolate cravings without the guilt. I often find that when I have a batch ready in the fridge, they're the perfect energy boost throughout my busy day. Plus, they store well, making them ideal for meal prep or a healthy on-the-go option.
Created by: Delilah Spencer
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
Granola Bites Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 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, coconut flakes, chopped almonds, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Using your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the granola bites for at least 1 hour or until they are firm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can swap half of the almonds for your favorite nuts or add in some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites are also delightful when rolled in more coconut flakes before chilling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 3mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g