Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups granola; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dried fruits (cranberries, raisins); 1/2 cup nuts (almonds, pecans); 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I always look for ways to indulge my sweet tooth, especially around Valentine's Day, when everything feels a bit more special. This Valentine's Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark is my go-to treat for sharing with loved ones. It's incredibly easy to whip up and combines crunchy granola with rich chocolate, making it a delightful snack for any occasion. The addition of dried fruits and nuts adds texture and flavor, creating a perfect balance that's hard to resist. Trust me, your friends and family will love it as much as I do!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:49:35.185Z

When I first made this Chocolate Granola Bark, it was a delightful experiment that turned out to be a hit! The method allows the chocolates to melt gently, blending perfectly with the granola, which creates that wonderful crunch. I found that using a mix of milk and dark chocolate adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

To get the best results, I always ensure the granola is well-coated with chocolate before spreading it out on the baking tray. It ensures every bite is filled with chocolate goodness! Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top right as it cools brings out the flavors even more.

        Reasons to Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy granola.
Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.
Makes a perfect gift for loved ones.

      

Customizing Your Granola Bark

One of the fantastic aspects of this Chocolate Granola Bark is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to match your personal taste or dietary needs. For instance, if you're a fan of coconut, consider adding unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, which provide a satisfying crunch without allergens.

Consider experimenting with different types of dried fruits as well. While cranberries and raisins create a lovely sweetness, try using diced apricots, cherries, or even candied ginger for a zestier profile. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also add beautiful color to the final treat, making it more visually appealing. Just remember to keep the total amount of mix-ins balanced with the granola for optimum texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, try reducing the microwave time to shorter 15-second intervals while stirring more frequently. Chocolate can go from melted to burnt quickly, especially if you’re using high heat. Also, consider adding a small teaspoon of coconut oil to the chocolate before melting; this can create a smoother texture and makes the bark easier to break once set.

In case your bark doesn’t seem to be sticking together once cooled, it could be due to insufficient mixing of the chocolate and granola. Make sure to coat all the granola evenly in chocolate to help bind the mixture together. If you encounter a situation where the chocolate has hardened before spreading, briefly reheat it in the microwave to soften it again, then continue with the process.

Storage and Shelf Life

To store your Chocolate Granola Bark, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to enjoy it over a longer period, you can refrigerate it, which extends the freshness for up to two weeks. Just keep in mind the texture might change slightly due to the cold. For longer storage, consider freezing pieces individually wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a freezer-safe bag; this allows you to enjoy a piece whenever you crave it.

When ready to eat frozen bark, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle thawing helps restore some of that delightful crunch while ensuring the chocolate remains deliciously glossy. You can also pair this snack with a warm beverage, such as hot cocoa or tea, to enhance the overall treat experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

2 cups granola
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup dried fruits (cranberries, raisins)
1/2 cup nuts (almonds, pecans)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Once you have everything, you're ready to begin.

Instructions

Let’s get started with making this delicious bark!

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark and milk chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted.

Combine with Granola

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granola, dried fruits, and nuts. Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chocolate-coated granola mixture evenly on the sheet, pressing it down to form an even layer.

Sprinkle Sea Salt

Sprinkle sea salt on top of the mixture before it sets to enhance the flavor.

Refrigerate

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set completely.

Cut and Serve

Once set, break the bark into pieces or cut it into squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious Valentine’s Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark!

Now that you’ve made it, enjoy sharing this tasty treat!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts and dried fruits for variety. For an extra touch, drizzle some white chocolate on top before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

This Valentine’s Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark is incredibly adaptable; serve it as a standalone treat or transform it into an elegant dessert platter. Cut the bark into fun shapes using cookie cutters for an added touch during parties or gatherings. You can also sprinkle some colorful edible glitter or heart-shaped sprinkles on top before it sets to make it extra festive.

For a fun party favor, consider packaging individual pieces in clear cello bags tied with a ribbon. Not only is it a thoughtful gift, but it also showcases your efforts in the kitchen beautifully. Guests will appreciate the personal touch and the deliciousness of handmade treats, and you can feel good about sharing something you crafted with love.

Adaptations for Various Diets

If you're catering to specific dietary requirements, this recipe can easily be adapted. For a vegan version, simply replace the chocolate chips with dairy-free alternatives, and ensure that the granola is free from honey. Many brands offer excellent dark chocolate options that fit the vegan profile beautifully. You can feel good about serving a treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions.

Additionally, for those who need a lower sugar option, you could swap regular chocolate chips for a sugar-free variety. Just be mindful that some sugar substitutes may change the melting properties of chocolate, so you might need to test a batch to find what works best. Keeping it healthy can also mean reducing the amount of added sugars from the dried fruits by choosing unsweetened versions or reducing the total quantity used.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite chocolates, such as milk, dark, or even white chocolate.

→ How should I store the granola bark?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, keep it in the fridge.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this a few days ahead of time. Just make sure to store it properly.

→ What can I use instead of granola?

You can substitute granola with rice cereal or crushed cookies for a different texture.