Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I truly enjoy whipping up these Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars for a quick snack or breakfast on the go. The combination of rich dark chocolate and chewy coconut makes these bars irresistibly delicious. We love that they’re packed with wholesome ingredients, providing energy and satisfaction without any guilt. These bars are super easy to make and can be customized with your favorite nuts or seeds, making them versatile for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:28:16.569Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars, I was immediately captivated by the delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen. The combination of oats, nuts, and chocolate brought back memories of my childhood, and it felt rewarding to recreate that comfort in a healthier way. What I love about this recipe is its adaptability—swapping nuts or adding dried fruits can completely change the flavor profile!

As I experimented with different toppings, I discovered that toasting the oats before mixing them with the chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also gives the bars a lovely crunch. Each bite is a balance of textures, and I think that’s what makes these granola bars truly special. They are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor perfectly complemented by the sweetness of coconut
Nutty crunch paired with a satisfying chewy texture
Healthy snacking made easy, ideal for busy mornings

      

Mastering the Texture

The texture of these Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars is a delightful balance between chewy and crunchy. To achieve the perfect chewiness, using fresh almond butter is essential, as it binds the ingredients while adding a creamy element. If you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can be a great substitute, providing a similar texture without the allergens.

A key element to ensure optimal texture is the toasting process. Toasting the oats and coconut not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a delightful crunch. Watch closely and stir halfway through to avoid burning—look for a light golden color. This will guarantee that your bars won’t be too dry after baking.

Customization Options

One of the best features of these granola bars is their versatility. You can easily customize the flavor and texture by adding your favorite mix-ins. Consider incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a bit of sweetness, or seeds such as chia or pumpkin for additional nutrients. Just make sure that the total volume of your add-ins doesn’t exceed about 1 cup to maintain the right consistency.

If you want to switch up the sweetness, agave syrup or brown rice syrup can replace honey or maple syrup. Both alternatives will give a slightly different flavor profile while ensuring your bars stay deliciously cohesive. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to creating your signature version!

Storing and Serving Tips

These bars store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Once they’re cut into squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and freezing for up to three months. Simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.

Serving these bars can also be an event in itself. Break them into smaller pieces for a fun lunchbox treat or pair them with yogurt and fruit for a nutritious breakfast bowl. You can even drizzle a little extra melted dark chocolate on top before serving for an extra decadent touch that will impress family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Toast Oats and Coconut

Spread the rolled oats and shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted oats and coconut with almond butter, honey or maple syrup, dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Press into Pan

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to ensure it’s compact.

Bake and Cool

Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or bars.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of dried fruit. Store these bars in an airtight container for up to a week.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your granola bars are too crumbly and not holding together, it could be due to insufficient binding agent. Make sure to use enough almond butter, as it acts like glue to hold everything together. Adding a touch more honey or maple syrup can also help; just a tablespoon more can make a significant difference.

Conversely, if the bars are too sticky and difficult to slice, they may have been overcooked, causing the sugars to become too caramelized. Keep a close eye while baking, aiming for a light golden hue. When cooling, ensure they reach room temperature for easier handling and slicing.

Scaling the Recipe

If you plan to make a larger batch for events or snacks, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just ensure you have a larger baking pan to accommodate the increased volume, such as a 9x13 inch pan. Also, remember to adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier to prevent overbaking.

When scaling up, consider the ingredients you choose—using high-quality dark chocolate and fresh coconut will enhance the overall flavor. Be prepared to mix in a larger bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout, and feel free to add even more nuts or seeds for an exciting texture variation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almond butter?

Yes, you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer.

→ How do I store the granola bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seeds, dried fruits, or even other types of chocolate.

→ How can I make these bars vegan?

Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.