Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola.
If you’re on the hunt for a snack that combines the comforting taste of chocolate chip cookies with the wholesome goodness of granola, look no further than this Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola. This delightful recipe is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a sweet addition to your favorite yogurt. Packed with oats, nuts, and seeds, and drizzled with honey, this granola is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Top Reasons to Make Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla creates a deliciously sweet and satisfying snack.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With old-fashioned oats, quinoa, and a variety of seeds, this granola is as nutritious as it is tasty.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy it on its own, sprinkle it over yogurt, or add it to smoothies for a healthy boost.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or seeds to make it uniquely yours.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup raw sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Tools of the Trade
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your dry ingredients.
- Medium Saucepan: To melt the butter and mix it with honey and vanilla.
- Baking Sheet: A large sheet for spreading the granola evenly.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Spatula: To mix and spread the granola mixture.
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola.: How It’s Done
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and get that perfect crunchy texture.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, cooked quinoa, chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and chia seeds. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, add in the honey and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and remove from heat.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Pour the melted butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, mix everything together until the dry ingredients are well-coated with the butter, honey, and vanilla.
Step 5: Spread on a Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet, pressing it down slightly to help it clump together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want the granola to be golden brown and fragrant.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Chips
Once the granola is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After it cools slightly, mix in the chocolate chips. The residual heat will soften the chocolate, creating delicious melty pockets throughout the granola.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help it to firm up and maintain its chewy texture.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
- Top your granola with fresh berries in the spring.
- Add sliced bananas and a dollop of peanut butter for a summer treat.
- Mix with yogurt and honey for a cozy fall breakfast.
- Serve with warm almond milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon during winter.
Problems & Prevention
- Granola is Too Hard: If you bake it too long or at too high of a temperature, it can become overly crunchy. Keep an eye on it while it bakes!
- Granola Falls Apart: Ensure that you press the mixture into the baking sheet firmly before baking. This helps it clump together.
- Chocolate Chips Melted Too Much: If you prefer chunks, mix in the chocolate chips after the granola has cooled completely.
- Granola Sticks to the Baking Sheet: Always use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola. FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any nuts or seeds you prefer or have on hand. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Is there a way to make this granola vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the salted butter with coconut oil and use agave syrup or maple syrup in place of honey for a completely vegan version.
How do I make the granola crunchier?
If you desire crunchier granola, bake it a little longer, checking every few minutes to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can add an extra tablespoon of butter or oil to help it crisp up.
Can I add dried fruit to the recipe?
Definitely! Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots can be mixed in after baking for an extra burst of flavor and chewiness.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve made your very own Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola, it’s time to enjoy it! Serve it as a topping for your favorite yogurt, enjoy it with a splash of milk, or simply munch on it as a snack throughout the day. Every bite is a delightful balance of chewy and crunchy, with that irresistible chocolate flavor.
The beauty of this granola is not just in its taste but also in its versatility. Whether you’re starting your day or looking for a satisfying treat, this granola will surely become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and indulge in the delightful flavors of this Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola!
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and get that perfect crunchy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, cooked quinoa, chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and chia seeds. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, add in the honey and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and remove from heat.
- Pour the melted butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, mix everything together until the dry ingredients are well-coated with the butter, honey, and vanilla.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet, pressing it down slightly to help it clump together.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want the granola to be golden brown and fragrant.
- Once the granola is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After it cools slightly, mix in the chocolate chips. The residual heat will soften the chocolate, creating delicious melty pockets throughout the granola.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help it to firm up and maintain its chewy texture.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
- Let it cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
