Cocoa Coffee Almond Granola: A Crunchy, Flavor-Packed Snack You'll Love
If you've never made homemade granola, let me tell you — it's easier than you think, and the results are absolutely delicious. I don't know why I don't make it more often because every time I do, I'm blown away by how amazing it tastes. This Cocoa Coffee Almond Granola has the perfect crisp texture, a rich chocolatey flavor, and just the right hint of coffee. Plus, it's fantastic for snacking any time of day.
Why I Love This Granola
There's something special about making your own granola. The aroma fills the kitchen, and the golden clusters that come out of the oven are so much better than anything store-bought. I love adding a handful to my yogurt in the morning, sprinkling it over a smoothie bowl, or just grabbing a crunchy bite as an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s that versatile, satisfying snack that I can’t resist.
Benefits of the Ingredients
This granola isn’t just delicious — it’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that provide lasting energy and health benefits:
- Oats (1 cup): A great source of fiber, oats help keep you full and support digestion. They're also rich in antioxidants and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Sliced Almonds (1/4 cup): Almonds add a satisfying crunch along with heart-healthy fats, vitamin E, and a dose of plant-based protein.
- Cocoa Powder (2 tsp): Cocoa is loaded with powerful antioxidants that can improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and even boost your mood.
- Coffee (1 1/2 tbsp brewed espresso): The coffee infuses the granola with rich flavor and provides a small caffeine boost — perfect for a morning snack or mid-afternoon energy boost.
- Maple Syrup (2 tbsp): This natural sweetener adds a warm flavor and a touch of sweetness without refined sugar.
- Sea Salt (1/4 tsp): A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Cocoa Coffee Almond Granola
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, coffee, cocoa powder, and sea salt until smooth.
- Add the oats and sliced almonds, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let it cool completely before breaking it into crunchy clusters.
Enjoy It Your Way
This Cocoa Coffee Almond Granola is fantastic by the handful, but it’s also perfect for:
- Sprinkling over Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- Adding to your morning oatmeal for extra crunch
- Topping ice cream or smoothie bowls
- Pairing with dried fruit for a DIY trail mix
Why You'll Love It
I can’t get enough of this granola — the rich cocoa flavor with that hint of coffee is irresistible, and the crunchy texture keeps me coming back for more. It's one of those recipes that’s so simple yet so rewarding, and it makes me wonder why I don’t make homemade granola more often. Once you try it, you’ll see exactly what I mean!
If you give this Cocoa Coffee Almond Granola a try, let me know — I’d love to hear how you enjoy it!
