Name: Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats; 1 cup chopped raw nuts (almonds, pecans, and/or walnuts); 1/4 cup desiccated or shredded unsweetened coconut; 2 Tbsp chia seeds; 3 Tbsp coconut or organic cane sugar (or other dry sweetener of choice); 1 tsp sea salt; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup coconut oil (or avocado oil); 1/2 cup maple syrup (plus more to taste, or other liquid sweetener of choice); 1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chunks

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If you’re on the hunt for a snack that perfectly balances indulgence with wholesome goodness, look no further than this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe. Imagine the rich, bittersweet pop of dark chocolate mingling with the satisfying crunch of toasted oats and nuts, all lifted by just the right touch of sea salt. It’s not just granola; it’s a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will brighten your mornings or elevate your snack game any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear container filled with multiple layers of dry ingredients, each occupying a different section. Starting from the bottom layer, there is a base of light brown rolled oats. Above that, slightly to one side, there is a small pile of fine white salt. Next, there is a mound of reddish-brown cinnamon powder, a heap of dark brown cocoa powder to the right, and a section with small black chia seeds near the center. To the left of the chia seeds is a pile of fine white shredded coconut, and behind the chia seeds, there are chopped nuts with a light brown, rough texture. The container is resting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe calls for a handful of simple, natural ingredients that come together beautifully to create a complex flavor and texture profile. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s adding crunch, sweetness, or that irresistible chocolaty depth.

3 cups gluten-free rolled oats: The heart of your granola, providing wholesome crunch and a chewy base.

1 cup chopped raw nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts): Adds satisfying texture and a subtle nutty richness.
1/4 cup desiccated or shredded coconut (unsweetened): Offers a chewy sweetness and tropical aroma.
2 tablespoons chia seeds: A tiny powerhouse of nutrition that also helps bind the mixture.

3 tablespoons coconut or organic cane sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the bitterness of cocoa.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and giving that standout salty-sweet contrast.
1/3 cup cocoa powder: The star that delivers rich, deep chocolate flavor without overpowering.

1/4 cup coconut (or avocado) oil: Adds moisture and helps the granola crisp up beautifully in the oven.
1/2 cup maple syrup: A natural liquid sweetener that brings warmth and caramel notes.
1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chunks: The ultimate finish for melty pockets of dark chocolate heaven.

How to Make Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 340 degrees Fahrenheit (171 C). In a food processor or a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, chia seeds, coconut sugar, sea salt, and cocoa powder. Pulse a few times if using a processor, or stir until everything is evenly mixed. This step layers the dry flavors so every bite is perfectly balanced.

Step 2: Melt and Mix the Wet Ingredients

Next, gently warm your coconut oil and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until melted and fully combined. This warm, sweet mixture is what binds your dry ingredients together and enables the granola to bake into those irresistible clusters.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the warm liquid over your dry ingredients and stir thoroughly. If you’re using a food processor, this is the moment to pulse once or twice to break down the oats and nuts slightly for a more refined texture. Otherwise, simply ensure all the oats and goodies are nicely coated with the coconut oil and syrup blend.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread your mixture evenly across a lined baking sheet. Pop it into the oven for 17 to 24 minutes, keeping an eye on it and stirring once halfway through to encourage even baking. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color and a fragrant, toasty aroma — that’s the sign your granola is perfectly baked.

Step 5: Cool and Add Chocolate

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, fold in the dark chocolate chips or chunks. The residual warmth will start to soften the chocolate slightly, creating little pockets of melty dark chocolate in every bite.

How to Serve Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe

Two white bowls are filled with golden brown granola mixed with dark chocolate chunks. Next to the bowls are two silver spoons, one holding a small amount of granola. Above the bowls, a metal baking tray holds a larger amount of granola spread out unevenly with a metal scoop resting on it. To the left of the bowls, there is a small clear jar filled with white milk. The background is a crumpled blue fabric texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This granola shines on its own or as a topping. Sprinkle it over creamy Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives, then add fresh berries and a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness and color. Its crunch and chocolate notes turn even simple dishes into indulgent treats.

Side Dishes

Pair your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe with a chilled smoothie bowl or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced, nutritious breakfast or snack. The granola adds texture and that addictive chocolate-salty kick that lifts any mild, creamy side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering this granola with whipped coconut cream and sliced bananas in a clear glass to create a gorgeous parfait. Or mix it into homemade energy balls with nut butter for portable snacks that satisfy chocolate cravings and keep you energized throughout the day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe has cooled and mixed with chocolate, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to three weeks, making it a fantastic batch to prepare ahead for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to keep your granola even longer, it freezes beautifully. Simply place the granola in a freezer-safe container or bag, pressing out all the air before sealing. When stored this way, it will maintain its freshness for up to a month or more.

Reheating

While granola is delicious straight from storage, you can toast it lightly in a skillet or oven if it begins to lose some crunch. Just a few minutes at low heat will revive that delightful crispiness without melting the chocolate too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free oats?

Absolutely! Regular rolled oats work just as well if gluten is not a concern for you. The texture and flavor will remain deliciously intact.

Is coconut oil necessary for this recipe?

Coconut oil is recommended for its subtle flavor and how it crisps the granola, but avocado oil or another mild-flavored oil can be used as a substitute with very good results.

Can I substitute the dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate?

You can, but keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter and less intense. If you prefer a sweeter crunch, this swap works, though it changes the flavor balance slightly.

How can I make this granola chunkier?

To get chunkier granola, avoid pulsing too much in the food processor, and press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. Also, try stirring less frequently while baking to let larger clusters form.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Using vegan dark chocolate chips and maple syrup ensures this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe is 100% vegan and perfect for plant-based diets.

Final Thoughts

This Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe is truly one of those magical homemade treats that is as good for your soul as it is for your taste buds. Once you try it, I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, whether for breakfast, a snack, or a fun topping. Give it a go and enjoy every crunchy, chocolaty, salty-sweet bite!