Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups granola; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts); 1/2 cup dried fruits (cranberries or apricots); 1 tablespoon coconut oil; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites

I love whipping up special treats for Valentine’s Day, and this Chocolate Granola Bark is always a hit! Combining crunchy granola with rich dark chocolate makes for a satisfying snack that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for sharing or gifting, this bark is easy to make and packs a delightful crunch with every bite. Plus, the addition of nuts and dried fruits gives it a lovely texture and flavor. Every time I make it, I can’t help but nibble on the leftovers while they cool!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:33:35.184Z

When I first made Chocolate Granola Bark, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. Using melted dark chocolate as a coating creates a luscious experience that elevates the crunchy granola base. I found that mixing in my favorite nuts and dried fruits not only adds nutrition but also makes for a stunning visual display.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the bark cool completely before breaking it into pieces. This ensures that the chocolate firms up nicely, making it easier to handle and perfect for gifting. It’s become a sweet tradition in my home!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy granola
Customizable with your favorite nuts and fruits
Quick and easy to assemble, perfect for last-minute treats

      

Perfecting Your Chocolate Melting Technique

Melting chocolate may seem simple, but achieving the perfect consistency is key to a successful granola bark. When using a microwave, heat the chocolate chips and coconut oil in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between. This prevents overheating that can cause the chocolate to seize. The goal is to melt the chocolate until it is glossy and smooth, so don’t rush this process. If you prefer the stovetop method, place the bowl over a simmering pot of water and stir until melted, maintaining careful attention to avoid water contact.

Coconut oil serves a dual purpose in this recipe. It not only makes the chocolate melt more smoothly, enhancing the mouthfeel, but also creates a shiny finish once cooled. If you don’t have coconut oil on hand, a neutral oil like vegetable or canola can be substituted, but it may alter the final flavor slightly. However, I recommend sticking with coconut oil for its unique richness and light coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Customizing Your Granola Bark

One of the most enjoyable aspects of making Chocolate Granola Bark is that it can easily be tailored to your preferences. While the recipe suggests almonds and cranberries, feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits. Cashews add a buttery richness, and cherries can provide a tart contrast to the sweetness. Additionally, consider adding some seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, to increase the crunch factor and nutritional content.

If you're aiming for a healthier version, look for granola with lower sugar content or even make your own! A homemade granola mix allows you to choose the sweetener and control the amount of added sugars. You can also include spices like cinnamon or vanilla for added flavor. Just keep in mind that any adjustments may slightly affect the set of the bark, so ensure the balance of ingredients remains consistent.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Granola Bark

2 cups granola
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
1/2 cup dried fruits (cranberries or apricots)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Pinch of sea salt

Steps

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface for easy removal later.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Stir granola, nuts, and dried fruits into the melted chocolate until well coated.

Spread the Mixture

Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle Sea Salt

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top to enhance the flavor.

Cool and Break

Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature until set, about 15-20 minutes, before breaking it into pieces.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite granola flavors or to add in ingredients like shredded coconut or spices for an extra kick.

Storage and Usage Tips

Once your Chocolate Granola Bark has set, breaking it into pieces can be as satisfying as making it! Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can keep it fresh for up to two weeks. However, be aware that refrigeration may alter the bark's texture slightly, so if you prefer a firmer bite, it's best kept at room temperature.

For gifting, consider breaking the bark into smaller pieces and packaging them in decorative bags or boxes. I often layer pieces with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. This treat makes a lovely, thoughtful gift for friends and loved ones on Valentine's Day or any occasion, showcasing both your culinary skills and care.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your granola bark doesn’t set properly, it’s often due to the chocolate being too warm or not enough granola being incorporated. If you find that the mixture is too runny, try adding a bit more granola or letting it cool slightly before spreading it out on the baking sheet. It should flow easily but not be overly liquid. On the other hand, if it’s too thick to spread, a quick re-melting in a microwave for 10-second intervals can help loosen the mixture.

Should your chocolate seize up while melting, don't panic! You can try to rescue it by adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the bowl and stirring vigorously until it comes back together. Just ensure the added oil is heated slightly to ensure better incorporation. Maintaining a gentle heat during melting will also help avoid this issue in future batches.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does the chocolate granola bark last?

It can last up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use any chocolate you prefer, but keep in mind this will change the flavor profile.

→ What can I substitute for granola?

You can use puffed rice, oats, or even your favorite cereal as a base instead of granola.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your granola and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, this recipe can be gluten-free.