Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters at home. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates the perfect snack for any time of day. The best part is that they are incredibly simple to make—just a few basic ingredients come together in a delightful way! I find that these clusters not only satisfy my chocolate cravings, but they are also a great way to add a touch of homemade goodness to my mornings or afternoon breaks.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:46:17.993Z

When I first made these Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters, I was amazed by how easily everything came together. I remember experimenting with different types of sweeteners and finding that maple syrup gives the clusters a nice caramel flavor. By lightly toasting the oats and nuts, I was also able to enhance their natural nuttiness, making each bite a joy.

The method I use for binding the clusters together is simple yet effective. A little melted chocolate mixed with the sticky maple syrup not only adds flavor but also helps hold everything together. I found that letting them cool completely ensures they hold their shape when you break them apart for an on-the-go snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Healthy and wholesome ingredients you can customize
Perfect for breakfast or as a midday snack

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The core of Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters lies in the quality of its ingredients. Rolled oats provide the base and contribute to the chewy texture, while chopped almonds add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. When using almonds, opt for raw or lightly toasted varieties to enhance their flavor without overpowering the chocolate. Remember, the chocolate chips should be good quality dark chocolate, as this will determine the richness of the flavor in your final clusters.

Maple syrup and almond butter serve dual purposes: they sweeten the granola and bind the clusters together. If you're looking for alternatives, honey can replace maple syrup, but be mindful that it will change the flavor profile slightly. Additionally, peanut butter can substitute almond butter, offering a completely different yet delicious take on this recipe. Just ensure that whatever nut or seed butter you choose is of spreadable consistency to mix well with the oats.

Perfecting the Cluster Formation

Creating perfectly shaped clusters is all about technique. When you scoop out the mixture, press it firmly together to ensure that the clusters hold their shape during baking. This compactness will help prevent them from falling apart later. If you find the mixture too crumbly, consider adding a touch more almond butter or maple syrup to help bind it together. Keep in mind that the size of your clusters can vary; smaller clusters will be crunchier, while larger ones will be chewier.

When arranging the clusters on the baking sheet, make sure to leave enough space between them. As they bake, the clusters will spread slightly, and too little space could result in them merging into a single mass. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least an inch of space around each cluster. Bake them until golden brown, which usually takes around 20 minutes, but keep an eye on your oven as baking times can differ based on evenness of heat.

Ingredients

For the Granola Clusters

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup almond butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix the ingredients well before baking to ensure proper coating.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.

Form the Clusters

Scoop out small handfuls of the mixture and press them firmly into clusters on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.

Add Chocolate

Once cool, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler, and drizzle over the clusters before breaking them apart.

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding dried fruits or seeds to the granola mixture before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Almond Granola Clusters can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. Once cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in a freezer bag or container; they can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply portion and thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.

For those who like to have quick snacks on hand, you can even break the clusters into smaller pieces after they've cooled. This not only makes for a perfect topping on yogurt or smoothie bowls but also creates a convenient grab-and-go snack option. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle some melted chocolate over the clusters before they set to add an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.

Customizing Your Clusters

One of the great things about this recipe is its adaptability. Feeling experimental? Try adding different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an alternative crunch. You can also mix in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to boost the nutritional value and add variety. If you prefer a sweeter profile, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder to your dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor.

For those with dietary restrictions, these clusters can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that your oats are certified gluten-free, and there are also vegan options. Simply verify that the dark chocolate chips used are dairy-free, and swap the maple syrup for agave nectar if desired. Each small tweak can give your granola clusters a personal touch while still keeping them delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey works well as a substitute if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftover clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

Peanut butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives.

→ Can I add different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts for variety.