Name: Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Ingredients: 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats; 1 cup chopped raw nuts (almonds, pecans, and/or walnuts); 1/4 cup desiccated or shredded coconut (unsweetened); 2 Tbsp chia seeds; 3 Tbsp coconut or organic cane sugar (or other dry sweetener of choice); 1 tsp sea salt; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup coconut oil (or avocado oil); 1/2 cup maple syrup (plus more to taste, or other liquid sweetener of choice); 1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chunks (preferably sweeter chocolate like Trader Joe’s 72% dark chocolate bar)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 41 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a snack or breakfast that hits all the right notes—rich chocolatey flavor, a little salty pop, satisfying crunch, and a wholesome, plant-powered punch—then you absolutely must try this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe. It’s a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, boasting gluten-free oats, a hint of sea salt, and the deep intensity of dark chocolate. Making this granola from scratch not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also lets you customize every element to your taste. Whether you sprinkle it over yogurt, munch it by the handful, or use it as a topping for smoothie bowls, this recipe is bound to become a treasured staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear mixing bowl shows multiple layers of dry ingredients, each with different colors and textures. The bottom layer is light tan with rolled oats, above it is a small pile of fine white salt. On one side, there is a mound of coarse white shredded coconut. Next to the coconut is a layer of tiny black chia seeds, which have a shiny, smooth texture. Nearby, there is a cluster of chopped brown nuts. On the other side, a large mound of dark brown cocoa powder sits, with a fine and powdery texture. Another layer of reddish-brown cinnamon powder is next to the nuts. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality. Each ingredient was carefully chosen to bring unique texture, flavor, and nutrition to the bowl—creating a granola that’s both crunchy and chewy, subtly sweetened, and bursting with plant-based goodness.

3 cups gluten-free rolled oats: The hearty base that brings fiber and a satisfying chew.
1 cup chopped raw nuts (almonds, pecans, and/or walnuts): Adds crunch, protein, and healthy fats.
1/4 cup desiccated or shredded coconut (unsweetened): Offers natural sweetness and a tropical flair.
2 Tbsp chia seeds: Tiny but mighty seeds that boost omega-3s and fiber.
3 Tbsp coconut or organic cane sugar: Provides gentle sweetness without overpowering.
1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the chocolate’s depth and balances sweetness beautifully.
1/3 cup cocoa powder: The source of rich chocolate flavor and antioxidants.
1/4 cup coconut (or avocado) oil: Binds everything together and adds subtle richness.
1/2 cup maple syrup: A liquid sweetener that lends moisture and caramel notes.
1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chunks (optional): For those moments when you want extra chocolate bursts.

How to Make Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe

Step 1: Prep the dry ingredients

Start by gathering all your dry ingredients—oats, nuts, shredded coconut, chia seeds, sugar, sea salt, and cocoa powder. Use a food processor to pulse them together a few times for even distribution, or simply stir well in a large bowl. This ensures every crunchy bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

Step 2: Warm the wet ingredients

Next, gently warm the coconut oil and maple syrup over medium-low heat. This step melts the oil and brings the syrup to a pourable consistency, so it can coat the dry mix beautifully. The warmth also helps bring out the rich aromas that make this granola so irresistible.

Step 3: Combine and coat

Pour your warm maple syrup and coconut oil mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to coat every oat and nut with the cocoa-infused syrup. If you’re using a food processor, this step will break down the mixture slightly, creating a finer granola texture, but you can skip this if you prefer chunkier clusters.

Step 4: Bake to perfection

Spread the coated granola evenly across a lined baking sheet. Bake at 340 degrees F for 17-24 minutes, stirring about halfway through. Watch for that deep golden brown color and the scent of roasted cocoa. Baking unlocks flavors and gives that exquisite crunchiness everyone loves.

Step 5: Cool and add chocolate

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet—this helps it crisp up. Once cooled, stir in the vegan dark chocolate chips or chunks if using. The residual warmth softens the chocolate just a bit, creating pockets of melty richness that contrast wonderfully with the crunchy clusters.

How to Serve Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe

A clear food processor bowl filled with a coarse mixture of oats, nuts, and chocolate, showing a rough and chunky texture with visible small pieces mixed evenly throughout. The mixture is dark brown, with some lighter bits of oat and nut pieces scattered inside. The food processor's blade center is partly visible, surrounded by the mixture, and the whole container sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra sea salt flakes on top just before serving to amplify that beautiful salty-sweet contrast. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of hemp seeds to boost flavor and nutrition even more.

Side Dishes

This granola pairs perfectly with creamy almond or coconut yogurt, fresh berries, or a drizzle of plant-based milk. For a heartier option, serve alongside a smoothie bowl or atop a warm bowl of oatmeal for added texture and chocolatey delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer your Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe in a parfait glass with vegan yogurt and fresh fruit for an eye-catching breakfast. Use it as a crunchy topper on vegan ice cream or chia pudding to add a delightful twist. You can even pack it in small jars as homemade gifts—they’re guaranteed crowd-pleasers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your granola fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. The sea salt and coconut oil help maintain crispness while the dark chocolate chunks stay perfectly melty without getting gritty.

Freezing

If you want to extend its shelf life, freeze the granola in a sealed freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about one month or longer, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat any time you crave it.

Reheating

To refresh the crunch after freezing, simply spread the granola on a baking sheet and warm it in a 300-degree F oven for 5-7 minutes. This revives that irresistible crispiness and aroma without melting the chocolate too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free rolled oats?

Absolutely! If gluten is not a concern, regular rolled oats will work just as well and provide the same satisfying texture and taste in this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe.

Is there a substitute for coconut oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can use avocado oil or even a mild olive oil for a similar effect. Just choose a neutral-flavored oil so it doesn’t overpower the cocoa and sea salt flavors.

How can I make this granola nut-free?

Simply skip the nuts or substitute them with extra seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or hemp seeds. They add crunch and nutrition without compromising the overall texture.

Can I make this recipe sweeter or less sweet?

Definitely. Adjust the amount of maple syrup and coconut or cane sugar to suit your taste preferences. Remember, the sea salt helps balance the sweetness, so a touch is key!

Why add sea salt to dark chocolate granola?

Sea salt enhances the depth of the dark chocolate while balancing the sweetness. It creates a sophisticated flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more, making this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe truly irresistible.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that this Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Granola Recipe will become your new go-to for a wholesome snack or breakfast that feels like a treat. It’s simple to make, endlessly versatile, and packed with flavors and textures you’ll love. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into the joy of homemade granola that’s both decadent and nourishing!