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Chocolate‑Covered Cherry Granola

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Crunchy homemade granola featuring rich cocoa, tart dried cherries, and melty chocolate chips. A wholesome yet indulgent breakfast or snack option with a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups rolled (old-fashioned) oats
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
  • 1/4 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, optional)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup, honey, or agave
  • 1/3 cup neutral oil (coconut oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup dried cherries (chopped if large)
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (added after baking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300 °F (150 °C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, seeds (if using), cocoa powder, and salt. Stir to mix evenly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup (or other sweetener), oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until fully coated.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Press down gently for more clumps.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes. Stir or rotate pan, then bake an additional 15–20 minutes until dry and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Let granola cool completely on the pan without stirring to encourage clusters.
  8. Once cooled, stir in dried cherries and chocolate chips. The chocolate may melt slightly and help bind clusters.
  9. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 weeks.

Notes

  • Use certified gluten-free oats and mix-ins for a gluten-free version.
  • To enhance clumping, gently press granola into the pan before baking and avoid stirring while cooling.
  • Customize with other dried fruits or omit chocolate if preferred.
  • If granola softens over time, crisp it in the oven at 300 °F for 5–10 minutes.
  • Drizzle with extra melted chocolate after baking for a dessert-style version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/chocolate%e2%80%91covered-cherry-granola/