Name: Chocolate Chip Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: ⅓ cup Pure Maple Syrup; ⅓ cup Light Brown Sugar; 4 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ cup Vegetable Oil; 5 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats; 2 cups Chocolate Chips

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While I was looking for a wholesome snack to enjoy during my busy days, I came across the recipe for Chocolate Chip Granola. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy oats and sweet chocolate that immediately caught my attention. I remember the first time I made it; my kitchen quickly filled with the warm, inviting aroma of baking oats and melting chocolate. It was a nostalgic moment that took me back to the comforting breakfasts of my childhood. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make and always a hit with family and friends. Whether I’m enjoying it with a splash of milk or snacking on it straight from the jar, this granola has become my go-to recipe for healthy indulgence.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
9g g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Whisk, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Chocolate Chip Granola Apart

Wholesome Ingredients

The beauty of Chocolate Chip Granola lies in its wholesome ingredients. I love how each component plays a role in creating not just flavor but also nutrition. From the hearty oats to the rich chocolate chips, every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout aspects of this recipe is its ability to be made in advance. I often dedicate a Sunday to whip up a big batch, ensuring I have a quick, nutritious snack ready for the week ahead. It’s a lifesaver during those busy weekday mornings.

Customizable to Your Taste

This granola isn’t just a one-size-fits-all recipe. I often add my favorite nuts or seeds, and sometimes even dried fruit, to enhance the flavor and nutrition. The flexibility allows me to create a unique blend each time I make it!

Great for Any Occasion

Whether I’m hosting a brunch or looking for a healthy snack, Chocolate Chip Granola fits the bill perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser and always garners compliments. I love serving it with yogurt and fresh fruits at gatherings, making it a versatile dish.

Health Benefits

Not only is this granola delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The oats provide fiber, the chocolate brings antioxidants, and when I add nuts, I’m boosting the protein content. It’s a guilt-free treat that satisfies any sweet tooth!

Long-Lasting Shelf Life

Once made, this granola can last up to two weeks stored in an airtight container. I love knowing that I have a healthy snack ready whenever the craving strikes, without worrying about it going bad quickly.

Ingredient List for Chocolate Chip Granola

When it comes to making Chocolate Chip Granola, the quality and combination of ingredients are essential. Each ingredient works harmoniously together, creating a deliciously crunchy and sweet snack. The key players in this recipe include oats, pure maple syrup, and rich chocolate chips, which form the base and heart of this delightful treat.

Pure Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener not only adds sweetness but also a hint of depth and flavor to the granola.
Light Brown Sugar: It complements the maple syrup, enhancing the sweetness while giving the granola that delightful chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm, inviting aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt: Just a pinch is necessary to balance the sweetness and bring all the flavors together.
Vegetable Oil: This helps achieve that perfect crunch while baking, ensuring the granola doesn’t dry out.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: The star of the show, they provide the base, texture, and heartiness that makes this granola truly satisfying.
Chocolate Chips: They add a rich, indulgent sweetness that transforms the granola into a delightful treat.

Instructions for Chocolate Chip Granola

Making Chocolate Chip Granola is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. Follow these simple steps to create your batch of crunchy goodness. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!

Adjust the oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature allows the granola to bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden color.
Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents the granola from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pure maple syrup, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. This mixture should be smooth and slightly thick, creating a syrupy base for the granola.
Next, drizzle in the vegetable oil and whisk until all the ingredients are well combined. The oil will help bind everything together and impart a lovely richness to the granola.
Add in the old-fashioned rolled oats and chocolate chips. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture together. Ensure every oat and chocolate chip is thoroughly coated, which will help create clusters when baking.
Once combined, pour the oat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it into a thin, even layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even baking.
Using a stiff metal spatula, compress the oat mixture firmly. This compression helps form that signature crunchy texture we all love in granola.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Halfway through baking, rotate the sheet to ensure even browning. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is lightly browned and fragrant.
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 1 hour. This cooling time is essential for achieving that perfect crunch.
Break the cooled granola into pieces of your desired size. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Things Worth Knowing

Oat Selection: Make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can become mushy and won’t provide the right texture.
Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize your granola by adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add extra ingredients.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes. The edges can brown quickly, so it’s wise to stir it halfway through cooking for even browning.
Storage Tips: For optimal freshness, store your granola in a cool, dry place. A glass jar works well to keep it crunchy longer.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Chocolate Chip Granola, the possibilities are endless! Here are some tips to inspire your creativity.

Storage: To keep your granola fresh, consider storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its crunch.
Freezing: Granola can be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: Enjoy your granola with yogurt, milk, or even on top of smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor.
Adding Spices: Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile that complements the sweetness.
Nutty Variations: Incorporate different nuts such as almonds or walnuts. They add not only flavor but also healthy fats and protein.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of light brown sugar based on your taste preference. You can reduce it for a less sweet granola.

Serve This Chocolate Chip Granola With

Serving Chocolate Chip Granola is just as enjoyable as making it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this treat:

Breakfast Bowls: Serve it with creamy yogurt and fresh fruits for a nutritious breakfast that’s both filling and delicious.
Healthy Snacks: Perfect as a mid-afternoon snack, it satisfies sweet cravings while providing energy.
Brunch Occasions: Great for brunch gatherings, you can offer it as a topping option alongside other breakfast favorites.
On-the-go: Pack it in small containers or ziplock bags for a wholesome snack during your travels or busy days.
Seasonal Treats: Customize it with seasonal spices, like pumpkin spice in the fall, for a festive twist.
Gift Idea: Consider gifting homemade granola in jars for friends during holidays or special occasions.

FAQ

Absolutely! Rolled oats are perfect for making Chocolate Chip Granola. They provide a satisfying texture and hold up well during the baking process. Quick oats can become mushy, which is why rolled oats are recommended for a crunchy granola.

Store your Chocolate Chip Granola in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps retain its crunch and flavor. If stored properly, it can last for up to two weeks, making it a convenient snack to have on hand.

Definitely! Adding nuts like almonds or walnuts can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your Chocolate Chip Granola. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as the nuts may brown faster than the oats.

To achieve those delightful clusters in your Chocolate Chip Granola, compress the oat mixture firmly on the baking sheet before baking. The moisture from the syrup and oil will help bind it together, forming those crunchy chunks you love!

Conclusion

The beauty of Chocolate Chip Granola is in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a healthy snack that you can customize to fit your taste, making it a favorite for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this at home. You’ll find it not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also brings a sense of joy as you enjoy a wholesome treat made with love.