Chocolate Granola Recipe (Jubilee Style!)

If you’re new here, there’s one thing you should know: I make a mean granola—so good, you might skip dessert for it. No joke!

I used to run a café where I sold homemade granola, and it quickly became one of our most-loved items. What started as a café favorite turned into a full-blown business. I even launched a granola line that ended up on store shelves—including at Whole Foods!

Why I Love This Chocolate Granola Recipe

Here’s why this granola has a permanent spot in my kitchen:

• Perfectly chocolatey without being too sweet – Made with 70% dark chocolate for a rich, deep flavor.

• Naturally sweetened – A blend of maple syrup and honey brings out the chocolate beautifully.

• Café-tested, customer-approved – It was one of the top sellers at my café and even made it to Whole Foods!

• Versatile and snackable – Enjoy it with yogurt and berries, in smoothies, folded into cookie dough, or sprinkled over ice cream.

• Crunchy and satisfying – The texture is just right for a snack or a breakfast boost.

Ingredients You Need

• Oats (I used gluten-free organic) – The base of the granola; hearty, wholesome, and naturally gluten-free.

• Almond chocolate pieces (70% cocoa) – Adds deep chocolate flavor with a slight crunch and less sugar.

• Honey and maple syrup – A natural sweetener duo that enhances the chocolate without overpowering it.

• Unsalted butter – Helps everything crisp up in the oven and adds a buttery richness.

• Coconut (shredded and unsweetened) – Brings a subtle tropical note and extra texture.

• Dried cherries – A tart and chewy contrast to the rich chocolate; they balance everything perfectly.

What Else Can I Add to My Chocolate Granola?

This chocolate jubilee granola is already a delicious blend of oats, chocolate, and dried fruit—but don’t be afraid to make it your own! It’s super flexible and pantry-friendly. Mix in whatever you have on hand:

• Raisins, cranberries, or dried blueberries for a burst of natural sweetness

• Cashews, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats

• Pumpkin or sunflower seeds if you’re looking to add some plant-based protein
  You can even toss in a sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon for a flavor twist. Just think of it as your own custom chocolate trail mix!

Is Granola Actually Healthy?

Yes, when you make it at home—absolutely!
Homemade granola like this one is packed with wholesome ingredients:

• Oats provide fiber to keep you full

• Nuts and seeds add healthy fats and protein

• Dark chocolate gives antioxidants without the sugar overload
  And the best part? You’re in control. You can skip the refined sugar, adjust the sweetness to your taste, and keep everything clean and simple. Paired with Greek yogurt or fresh fruit, it makes a balanced breakfast or a smart snack.

Tips for The Perfect Chocolate Granola Dessert

1. Melt the butter, honey, and maple syrup together before adding them to the oats. This will allow all the flavors to incorporate better. 
2. Toast the coconut separately in the oven until it becomes light golden. Be sure to keep an eye on the coconut, as it can be quickly over-toasted and ruin the flavor. 
3. When the oat mixture is finished baking in the oven, remove add the chocolate chips and mix everything together until the chips are melted. Use a large spoon to mix the oats with the chocolate. The mixture will be hot, so be careful. 
4. After mixing in the chocolate, return the oats to the baking sheet and keep it aside until it come to room temperature. 
5. When the granola cools down, you can mix in the cherries and coconut.