Chocolate Chip Granola
The ultimate snack for any time of day! This Chocolate Chip Granola is packed with wholesome oats and rich chocolate, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or snacking. Easy to make and customizable, you’ll want to whip up a batch tonight!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
- Whisk
- Baking Sheet
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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- Tip 1: To keep your granola fresh, consider storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its crunch.
- Tip 2: Granola can be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure it's in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn.
- Tip 3: Enjoy your granola with yogurt, milk, or even on top of smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor.
- Tip 4: Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile that complements the sweetness.
- Tip 5: Incorporate different nuts such as almonds or walnuts. They add not only flavor but also healthy fats and protein.