Dark Chocolate Granola with Maple Bacon Sea Salt
This dark chocolate granola is a crunchy, sweet-salty breakfast or snack made with oats, mixed nuts, sunflower seeds, coconut oil, maple syrup, dark chocolate, raisins, and Maple Bacon Sea Salt. And, it’s vegan friendly! The granola bakes until toasted, then the chocolate and raisins are mixed in after baking so the texture stays crisp and the add-ins do not burn. Maple Bacon Sea Salt adds a smoky-sweet contrast that works with maple syrup, nuts, and dark chocolate. Serve it over yogurt, with milk, on smoothie bowls, or by the handful when you want a homemade snack with a more savory finish.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups of oats
½ cup of mixed nuts (walnuts, cashew nuts)
1 tbsp of sunflower seeds
⅕ cup of coconut oil, melted
1 tbsp of maple syrup
1 tsp of Maple Bacon Sea Salt
2 oz of dark chocolate, chopped
½ oz of raisins
Why Maple Bacon Sea Salt Works in This Dark Chocolate Granola
Maple Bacon Sea Salt works in this granola because oats, nuts, maple syrup, and dark chocolate all need a little salt to taste balanced. The maple note reinforces the syrup, while the bacon-style savory edge keeps the granola from tasting flat or overly sweet. It is especially useful in small amounts because the flavor carries through the whole batch.
Instructions:
In a bowl, add oats, nuts and seeds
Pour in coconut oil, maple syrup and season with Maple Bacon Sea Salt
Mix nicely and transfer into a baking tray
Spread nicely and cook for 20 minutes, at 375F, mixing every 5 minutes
When ready, take the granola out and mix in the dark chocolate and raisins
Wait for the granola to cool down completely, then place in a jar
Enjoy with yogurt and fresh fruits
FAQ:
Q: When should I add the dark chocolate?
A: Add the dark chocolate after baking so it does not burn. For more distinct chocolate pieces, let the granola cool slightly first.
Q: How do I keep homemade granola crisp?
A: Let it cool completely before sealing it in a jar or container. Trapped steam can soften the oats.
Q: Can I make this without raisins?
A: Yes. Leave them out or use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or extra nuts.