Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick and healthy snack that packs a flavorful punch. Combining the rich taste of chocolate with the nutty crunch of almonds and the tropical flair of coconut creates the perfect bite-sized treat. They’re fun to make, and I find that they can be customized with different nuts or seeds depending on what I have on hand. Plus, they’re a great option for on-the-go munching or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up!
Making Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites allows me to experiment with my favorite ingredients. I love the combination of flavors and textures in these bites, which makes them incredibly satisfying without feeling heavy. I often double the batch to ensure I have plenty for my week.
One tip that I’ve found particularly helpful is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes after mixing. This allows the oats to absorb some of the moisture, making it easier to form the bites without them crumbling apart. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
Why You Will Love These Bites
- Nutty texture from almonds combined with chewy coconut
- Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
- Perfect for a quick snack or midday energy boost
Mixing the Perfect Base
The combination of rolled oats and almond butter serves as the foundation for these granola bites. Rolled oats provide dietary fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer, while almond butter not only adds healthy fats but also contributes a rich, nutty flavor. When mixing, ensure that the almond butter is at room temperature; this will prevent clumping and allow for a smoother blend with the other ingredients.
Adding honey or maple syrup acts as a binding agent; it keeps the ingredients together while providing natural sweetness. If you prefer a lower sugar option, consider using a ripe banana or applesauce instead, which can further enhance the chewy texture of the bites. Remember to adjust the sweetness level depending on your preferences.
Shaping and Baking Tips
When forming the bite-sized balls, wetting your hands slightly can prevent the mixture from sticking, making it easier to roll. Aim for a consistent size—about a tablespoon for each bite—so they bake evenly. If you find the mixture too loose to form into balls, adding a bit more rolled oats or coconut can help achieve the right firmness.
Once on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leave a little space between each bite to allow for even baking. Baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes will create an enticing aroma. Watch closely for a golden brown color, which indicates they are ready. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so it's better to underbake slightly than risk losing that chewy quality.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Granola Bites
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Shape into Bites
Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a bite-sized ball. Place the formed bites onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the bites for 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool and Enjoy
Once done, let the bites cool completely on the baking sheet. Then transfer them to an airtight container and enjoy your delicious snacks!
Store any leftovers in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add other ingredients like dried fruits or seeds to customize these bites to your taste.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Once baked and cooled, these granola bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you're making them in advance, consider individually wrapping each bite in plastic wrap. This not only helps with portion control but also makes for an easy grab-and-go snack during busy days.
For longer storage, these bites freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Creative Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. You can swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.
For those looking to enhance the health benefits, consider adding seeds, such as chia or flaxseeds, which are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. This not only boosts the nutritional value but can also add an appealing crunch to each bite!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute almond butter with another nut butter?
Yes, you can use peanut butter or any other nut or seed butter, although the flavor profile will change.
→ How long do these granola bites last?
They can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
→ 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 use instead of shredded coconut?
If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to omit it or substitute it with extra nuts or seeds.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Granola Bites as a quick and healthy snack that packs a flavorful punch. Combining the rich taste of chocolate with the nutty crunch of almonds and the tropical flair of coconut creates the perfect bite-sized treat. They’re fun to make, and I find that they can be customized with different nuts or seeds depending on what I have on hand. Plus, they’re a great option for on-the-go munching or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up!
What You'll Need
Granola Bites
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a bite-sized ball. Place the formed bites onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the bites for 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Once done, let the bites cool completely on the baking sheet. Then transfer them to an airtight container and enjoy your delicious snacks!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add other ingredients like dried fruits or seeds to customize these bites to your taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g