Prepare to delight your taste buds with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious **Chocolate Coconut Granola recipe**! Bursting with rich chocolate and sweet, tropical coconut flavors, this homemade granola is not just a treat for your palate, but also a fantastic addition to a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re craving a satisfyingly crunchy breakfast or a wholesome snack to power you through your day, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Enjoy it simply with your favorite plant-based milk and a handful of fresh berries, or elevate your yogurt, chia pudding, smoothie bowls, or acai bowls with its delightful texture and taste. The best part? It’s naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it accessible for a wide range of dietary needs.

Forget store-bought options that often come with hidden sugars and artificial ingredients. Making your own granola at home gives you full control over the quality and quantity of each component, ensuring a wholesome and truly customizable experience. This recipe focuses on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a golden, crunchy, and deeply flavorful granola that will become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to enjoy a breakfast that tastes like dessert, without any guilt!

Why Homemade Chocolate Coconut Granola is a Must-Try

If you’re a true chocolate lover who also appreciates the satisfying crunch of granola, then you are in for an absolute treat! This recipe takes traditional homemade granola to an exciting new level by infusing it with generous amounts of rich cocoa powder, delectable chocolate chips, and aromatic shredded coconut. The result is a breakfast or afternoon snack that feels incredibly indulgent, yet remains surprisingly wholesome.

There are numerous benefits to making your own **chocolate coconut granola** at home. First and foremost, you control the ingredients. This means no artificial flavors, excessive sugars, or unhealthy oils often found in commercial granolas. You can customize the sweetness level, choose organic ingredients, and ensure it meets your specific dietary requirements like being gluten-free and vegan. Secondly, the aroma of freshly baked granola filling your kitchen is truly unparalleled. It’s an experience that store-bought versions simply cannot replicate. Lastly, making a large batch is incredibly economical and provides you with a ready-to-eat, healthy option for days to come, making meal prep a breeze!

Beyond the delicious taste, this homemade granola offers a boost of fiber from the oats and flax seeds, healthy fats from coconut oil, and antioxidants from the cocoa. It’s a smart choice that satisfies your sweet cravings while providing sustained energy, making it far superior to sugary cereals or processed snack bars.

The Irresistible Appeal: Why You’ll Love this Recipe

This **gluten-free vegan chocolate coconut granola** isn’t just another recipe; it’s a game-changer for your breakfast and snack routine. Here’s why it’s bound to become a new favorite in your household:

• Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for obscure items. All the components required for this delightful coconut and chocolate granola are readily available at your local grocery store. We focus on natural sweeteners, whole grains, and rich cocoa for authentic flavor, ensuring you’re fueling your body with goodness.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Don’t be intimidated by homemade granola! The process is incredibly straightforward. It primarily involves whisking together a simple wet chocolate mixture, combining it with dry ingredients, and then baking it to crunchy perfection. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever bought granola pre-made! Even beginners in the kitchen can achieve fantastic results with minimal effort.
• 100% Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan: This is truly the best part for many. This dark chocolate granola recipe is specifically crafted to be entirely gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means that individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerances, or those following a plant-based diet can enjoy this decadent treat without any concerns or compromises on taste or texture. It’s truly a recipe for everyone!
• Deliciously Crunchy & Flavorful: Achieving that perfect crunch is key for granola, and this recipe delivers every time. Each cluster is generously infused with deep, intense chocolate notes and naturally sweet coconut, making every bite a delightful experience. The texture is simply divine, with a satisfying snap that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: From a classic bowl with your favorite non-dairy milk to a crunchy topping for elaborate smoothie bowls, this granola is incredibly versatile. It also makes a fantastic on-the-go snack, perfect for school, work, or post-workout fuel.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a healthy breakfast or snack ready for days, saving you time and ensuring you always have a wholesome option available.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Delicious Granola

Crafting this incredible **homemade chocolate coconut granola** requires a selection of readily available ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s a visual overview of the main components you’ll be working with. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, remember to scroll down to the **printable recipe card** located at the bottom of this post.

We’ll be using a blend of wet and dry ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and rich flavor that makes this granola so addictive. Paying attention to the quality of your ingredients, especially when it comes to the cocoa and coconut, will elevate the final taste significantly. Rest assured, these ingredients are simple and can be found in most well-stocked grocery stores.

Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions

To ensure your **gluten-free chocolate coconut granola** turns out perfect every time, let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients and discuss potential substitutions. Understanding each component will help you customize this recipe to your liking and dietary needs, ensuring delicious results no matter your pantry situation.

• Coconut Oil: This is our primary fat, contributing to the granola’s crispiness and providing a lovely hint of coconut flavor. For a more pronounced and authentic coconut aroma and taste, I highly recommend using extra virgin coconut oil (also known as unrefined coconut oil). This type retains more of the natural coconut essence. If you prefer a milder coconut flavor, or if you don’t have extra virgin on hand, refined coconut oil will also work as it has a more neutral taste.
• Cocoa Powder: We’re aiming for a rich, deep chocolate flavor, and unsweetened cocoa powder is the absolute best choice. This allows us to control the sweetness independently using maple syrup. Using unsweetened cocoa also ensures a deep, intense chocolate color and taste in your granola without it becoming overly sweet. Don’t substitute with hot chocolate mix or sweetened cocoa powder, as this will drastically alter the flavor and sugar content.
• Maple Syrup: My sweetener of choice for this **vegan granola** recipe is pure maple syrup. I love its distinct caramel-like flavor profile, and it perfectly complements the chocolate and coconut while keeping the recipe plant-based. Ensure you use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup. If you don’t have maple syrup, agave nectar is a good alternative as it’s also vegan and has a similar viscosity. If you’re not strictly vegan, honey can be used, but note it will change the flavor slightly. For those managing blood sugar levels or following a low-glycemic diet, I highly recommend using a maple-flavored monk fruit syrup, which is a 1:1 sugar substitute with a very low glycemic index.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract always enhances the overall flavor profile of baked goods, adding a subtle warmth and depth that rounds out the chocolate and coconut. If you’re not a fan of vanilla or simply don’t have it, feel free to omit it; the granola will still be delicious, just with a slightly less complex flavor.
• Rolled Oats: The wholesome foundation of our granola! It’s crucial for Celiac individuals or those with gluten intolerance to use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This is because oats are frequently processed in facilities that also handle wheat, barley, and rye, leading to potential cross-contamination with gluten. Always check for the “gluten-free” certification on the packaging to ensure safety. Quick oats are not recommended as they can become too mushy.
• Ground Flax Seeds: Also commonly referred to as flaxseed meal, these tiny powerhouses add a significant nutritional boost (packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber) and help in binding the granola, contributing to those desirable crunchy clusters. You can use either brown flaxseed meal or golden flaxseed meal – both work perfectly and offer similar benefits.
• Shredded Coconut: This provides the distinctive tropical coconut flavor and wonderful chewy texture that pairs so well with chocolate. Make sure to use unsweetened shredded coconut. Since we’re already incorporating maple syrup as a sweetener, using unsweetened coconut prevents the granola from becoming excessively sweet and allows the natural flavors to shine. Desiccated coconut can also be used, but shredded coconut provides better texture.
• Chocolate Chips: To keep this recipe truly dairy-free and vegan, I recommend using good quality dairy-free chocolate chips. There are many excellent brands available now. However, if you don’t have lactose intolerance or aren’t strictly vegan, regular semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips will work just fine. For an extra textural element and a more intense chocolate experience, you can also opt for dark chocolate chunks, which melt beautifully and create larger chocolate puddles.

How to Make Coconut Chocolate Granola: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making your own **crunchy chocolate coconut granola** is a simple and rewarding process that comes together in under an hour. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly golden, flavorful clusters every time. We’ve broken down the process with accompanying visuals to guide you through each stage, ensuring your homemade granola is a resounding success.

Step 1: Whisk Wet Ingredients. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well blended and form a cohesive liquid mixture. This forms the flavorful, sweet, and binding base for our granola, ensuring all dry ingredients are coated evenly.

Step 2: Incorporate Cocoa Powder. To the wet mixture, add the unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir vigorously with your whisk or a spatula until all the cocoa is fully incorporated, creating a smooth, rich, and consistent chocolate mixture. Make sure there are no lumps of dry cocoa powder remaining, as this ensures even chocolate flavor throughout the granola.

Step 3: Mix in Oats & Flax Seeds. Gently fold the certified gluten-free rolled oats and ground flax seeds into the chocolate mixture. Using a spatula, mix diligently until every single oat flake and flaxseed is thoroughly coated with the rich chocolate paste. This ensures even flavor and desirable browning during baking, forming the core of your crunchy granola.

Step 4: Add Shredded Coconut. Carefully fold the unsweetened shredded coconut into the chocolate oat mixture. Mix just until the coconut is evenly distributed throughout. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the coconut to break down too much and lose some of its distinct texture.

Step 5: Bake for Crunch. Spread the granola mixture evenly onto a large parchment-lined baking sheet. For those coveted large clusters, press the mixture down firmly into a single, compact layer as much as possible with the back of your spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 300F (150C) for approximately 35 minutes, or until the granola appears dry, firm, and lightly golden brown. Avoid stirring during this stage to encourage cluster formation.

Step 6: Add & Melt Chocolate Chips. Remove the baking sheet from the oven after its initial bake. Evenly sprinkle the dairy-free chocolate chips (or your choice of chocolate) over the hot granola. The residual heat from the granola and the warm baking sheet will begin to soften them. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chocolate chips to fully melt and become glossy.

Step 7: Swirl the Chocolate. Once the chocolate chips are melted and beautifully glossy, remove the baking sheet from the oven for the final time. Use the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula to gently swirl and spread the melted chocolate over the entire granola mixture. This creates beautiful marbled patterns and ensures that every piece of granola has a decadent chocolatey coating.

Step 8: Cool & Store. The most important step for achieving maximum crispiness and for the clusters to set is cooling! Allow the granola to cool completely and undisturbed on the baking sheet to room temperature. Resist the urge to break it apart while warm. Once entirely cooled, break the granola into desired pieces or clusters and transfer to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips for Granola Perfection: Serving & Storage

Achieving that perfect **crunchy, flavorful chocolate coconut granola** is easy with a few insider tips. Here’s how to get the best results and how to enjoy your homemade treat to the fullest, ensuring every batch is a masterpiece.

• How to Get Bigger Clusters: The secret to large, satisfying granola clusters lies in minimal disturbance during and after baking. When spreading the mixture on the baking sheet, press it down very firmly with the back of a spatula to create a single, compact, and even layer where oats are in close contact with each other. During baking, avoid stirring or disturbing the granola. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool completely and undisturbed on the baking sheet for at least 1-2 hours, or even longer. Resist the urge to break it apart while warm; let it cool fully to room temperature, then gently break it into your desired cluster sizes. The cooling process is where the magic happens and the clusters firm up.
• Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Texture: While this **vegan granola** is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative and customize it with additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
  • Dried Fruit: If you enjoy a chewy contrast to the crunch, consider adding ¾ cup of dried cranberries, tart dried cherries, golden raisins, or finely chopped apricots. Add these at the same time as the chocolate chips (Step 6) to prevent them from burning or becoming too hard during the initial bake.
  • Nuts & Seeds: For an additional boost of crunch, healthy fats, and nutrition, stir in some seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds (up to ½ cup total). You can also add chopped nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pecans, or pistachios (up to 1 cup total). Add these along with the rolled oats (Step 3). Lightly toasting them beforehand can enhance their flavor.
  • Spices: A pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of chili powder (for a unique “Mexican hot chocolate” twist!) can elevate the flavor profile even further. Add these warm spices with the cocoa powder in Step 2.
• Serving Suggestions for Your Gourmet Granola: Beyond the classic bowl with milk, this **gluten-free chocolate coconut granola** is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways:
  • Classic Breakfast: Serve with your favorite plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk) and a handful of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
  • Yogurt Parfait: Layer it with dairy-free yogurt (coconut or almond yogurt are excellent choices) and fresh fruit for a vibrant, protein-packed, and filling breakfast or dessert.
  • Smoothie or Acai Bowls: Sprinkle generously over your favorite thick smoothie or acai bowl for added texture, a delightful crunch, and a burst of chocolate-coconut flavor.
  • Chia Pudding Topping: A perfect crunchy topping for creamy overnight chia pudding, adding both flavor and textural interest.
  • By the Handful: It’s so delicious, you’ll find yourself grabbing handfuls straight from the jar as a satisfying and energizing afternoon snack, or even a healthier dessert alternative.
  • Dessert Garnish: Crush it lightly and sprinkle over dairy-free ice cream, fruit crumbles, or even a chocolate mousse for an added layer of complexity.
• Storage & Shelf Life: Once completely cooled, ensure your homemade granola is stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container to maintain freshness and prevent any freezer burn or moisture absorption. Always ensure it’s fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy granola.

Other Gluten-Free Granola Recipes You’ll Love:

If you’re now hooked on homemade granola and looking to expand your repertoire, be sure to explore these other delicious and healthy gluten-free options from the kitchen:

• Crunchy Homemade Granola (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Homemade Granola Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Gluten-Free Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day Right:

Looking for more delicious ways to kickstart your mornings with a wholesome, gluten-free boost? Dive into these fantastic breakfast recipes that are sure to become new family favorites:

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!

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Chocolate Coconut Granola (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

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• Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 45 minutes
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  Yield: 12 servings
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  Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Dairy-Free

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Description

This easy, homemade Chocolate Coconut Granola is a dream come true for chocolate and coconut lovers alike! With its irresistibly crunchy texture and rich, decadent flavors, it’s the perfect healthy breakfast or satisfying snack. Enjoy it with a splash of milk and fresh berries, or use it to top your favorite yogurt, chia pudding, smoothie bowls, or acai bowls for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Best of all, this delightful recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a fantastic option for everyone!

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Ingredients

Scale

• 1/3 cup extra virgin coconut oil, melted
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or agave nectar/honey)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups certified gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/2 cup ground flax seeds (flaxseed meal)
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips/dark chocolate chunks)

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Instructions

1. Preheat & Line: Preheat your oven to 300F (150C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully blended and form a smooth liquid.
3. Add Cocoa Powder: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix well until a smooth, rich chocolate paste forms, ensuring no dry clumps remain.
4. Mix in Oats & Flax Seeds: Fold the gluten-free rolled oats and ground flax seeds into the chocolate mixture. Continue mixing until every oat flake is evenly coated with the chocolate paste. This ensures consistent flavor and crunch.
5. Fold in Shredded Coconut: Gently fold the unsweetened shredded coconut into the oat mixture until it is just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Spread & Flatten Granola: Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Spread it into an even layer and press down firmly with a spatula to encourage the formation of clusters.
7. Initial Bake: Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven. The granola should be dry to the touch and firm, signaling it’s getting wonderfully crunchy.
8. Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot granola. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chocolate chips to soften and melt.
9. Swirl Melted Chocolate: Take the sheet pan out of the oven. Use the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula to gently swirl the melted chocolate over the granola, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
10. Cool Completely: The most important step for crispiness! Set the baking sheet aside and let the granola cool completely at room temperature before breaking it into pieces or clusters. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

Coconut Oil: For a more pronounced tropical flavor, I recommend using extra virgin coconut oil (unrefined). Refined coconut oil works if you prefer a milder taste.

Cocoa Powder: Always opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to control the sweetness effectively with maple syrup.

Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup keeps this recipe vegan and adds a lovely flavor. Alternatives include agave nectar or, if not strictly vegan, honey. For a low-glycemic option, try maple-flavored monk fruit syrup (1:1 substitute).

Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor. It’s optional; feel free to omit if preferred.

Rolled Oats: Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats if you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, due to potential cross-contamination during processing.

Ground Flax Seeds: Also known as flaxseed meal. Both brown and golden flaxseed meal work well, adding nutrients and helping with binding.

Shredded Coconut: Use unsweetened shredded coconut to prevent the granola from becoming overly sweet, complementing the maple syrup perfectly.

Chocolate Chips: For a dairy-free recipe, use dairy-free chocolate chips. Regular chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks are fine if dairy is not an issue.

Optional Add-Ins: Enhance your granola with ¾ cup of dried cranberries or tart dried cherries, added with the chocolate chips. For extra crunch, mix in sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, or chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds along with the oats.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Category: Breakfast, Snack
• Method: Baking