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; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making my own snacks, and these Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars have quickly become a favorite in my household. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they're also a great way to use ingredients I already have on hand. The combination of rich dark chocolate and shredded coconut gives these bars a delicious twist, and I can easily customize them with my favorite nuts and seeds. Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or a midday treat, these bars are simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:07:13.628Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars, I was amazed at how easy they were to make and how delicious the results turned out. I started with oats, honey, and a generous amount of dark chocolate to achieve that perfect balance between sweetness and rich flavor. The key was to allow them to cool completely before slicing, which helps to maintain their shape.

After trying various recipes, I found that using a combination of coconut oil and almond butter adds a creamy texture that beautifully complements the crunch of the oats. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them with friends!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy coconut shreds
Nutritious and filling for a wholesome snack option
Easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins

      

Unlocking Flavors with Mix-ins

While this recipe creates delicious Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars as is, don't hesitate to tailor them to your taste by incorporating your favorite mix-ins. For instance, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, can introduce a touch of sweetness and chewiness that complements the rich chocolate and coconut. Just remember to maintain the overall volume; if adding more ingredients, you might need to slightly adjust the binding elements like almond butter or honey.

Another great option is to experiment with seed varieties. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can provide a delightful nutty flavor and added nutrition. If you’re looking to make a nut-free version, these seeds work beautifully as a substitute while still keeping the texture hearty and enjoyable. Mixing in different ingredients can lead to endless variations of these granola bars, making it easy to keep your snack game fresh.

Perfect Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These granola bars are excellent for meal prepping, as they store well for up to two weeks when kept in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them where they can last for up to a month. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds if you're short on time.

To prevent the bars from becoming overly hard, make sure you don’t overbake them; they should come out slightly soft but not doughy. If you want a chewier texture, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be just turning golden. This will ensure that the bars maintain a satisfying chew without becoming too crunchy, which is especially important if you're looking for a delightful bite.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Granola Bars make a versatile snack for any time of day. For a quick breakfast, try pairing a bar with a piece of fruit or a dollop of yogurt for added protein and freshness. If you’re taking them on the go, I find wrapping them individually works wonders for grab-and-go efficiency, whether it’s during a hectic morning or post-work workout sessions.

They also serve well as a satisfying afternoon treat in the office or a post-dinner light dessert. When entertaining, consider cutting them into festive bite-sized pieces and presenting them on a platter with a variety of other snacks. Drizzling a little extra melted dark chocolate over them right before serving not only enhances their visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolatey goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Granola Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are fully combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Bake the Mixture

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and press down firmly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden.

Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully lift the granola from the pan using the parchment paper, and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate coconut granola bars!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in your favorite nuts or seeds. You can also use different types of chocolate or sweeteners based on your preferences.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

One common mistake is not properly measuring the ingredients, especially the sticky ones like almond butter and honey. Using too much almond butter can alter the texture of the bars, making them overly gooey. I recommend using a kitchen scale for accurate measurement or packing the almond butter firmly into the measuring cup for consistent results.

Another issue can arise from pressing the mixture into the baking dish. Be sure to press firmly and evenly across the surface to prevent the bars from crumbling later. Unevenly packed mixtures can result in bars that are either too loose or too dense, detracting from the intended chewiness.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of rolled oats and shredded coconut is not just for flavor; it provides a great backbone for texture and nutrition. Oats offer a healthy dose of fiber, while the coconut contributes healthy fats. If you prefer a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep these bars safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Almond butter isn’t just a binder; it’s what gives these bars a rich, nutty flavor. If you have any nut allergies, feel free to substitute it with sunflower seed butter or tahini to maintain the moisture without compromising on flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt to the mixture. Cinnamon brings a warm, inviting spice that pairs beautifully with chocolate and coconut. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the baked bars can elevate the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that enhances every bite.

If you're a fan of savory flavors, you might explore adding a few tablespoons of crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a unique twist. While this may seem unconventional, balancing sweet and savory can yield a surprisingly delightful outcome for adventurous snackers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, any nut or seed butter you prefer can be used in this recipe.

→ 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 freshness.

→ Can I replace honey with a vegan option?

Certainly! Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative to honey in this recipe.

→ Are these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars can be gluten-free.