Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups granola; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans); 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, apricots); 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tbsp coconut oil

Highlighted under: Busy Recipes

I love making this Valentine's Snacks Chocolate Granola Bark as a special treat for my loved ones. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy granola creates a delightful snack that's perfect for sharing. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, I can whip up this sweet indulgence in no time. It's an excellent way to celebrate the season of love, and the best part is that everyone can customize it with their favorite mix-ins. Whether it's for a romantic evening or a gathering with friends, this bark is always a hit!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:29:36.390Z

When I first attempted to create a snack that embodied the spirit of Valentine's Day, I experimented with flavors and textures until I perfected this Chocolate Granola Bark. The approach of melting chocolate and folding in hearty granola along with nuts and dried fruits had me hooked! It not only tastes fantastic but also offers a beautiful presentation.

One of my secrets is to sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the finished bark before allowing it to set. This touch enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and adds a delightful contrast that makes each bite a memorable one. Trust me, your loved ones will rave about it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy granola
Customizable with your favorite nuts and dried fruits
Perfect for celebrating love with family and friends

      

Understanding Ingredients

The foundation of this Chocolate Granola Bark is granola, which not only adds crunch but also provides a complex flavor profile with oats and nuts. When selecting granola, opt for a mix that's not overly sweet, allowing the richness of the chocolate to shine through. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own granola by toasting oats and nuts with a touch of honey or maple syrup, enhancing the rustic feel of this treat.

Dark chocolate chips are recommended for this recipe due to their slightly bitter notes that balance well with the sweetness of the granola and dried fruits. Look for chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa; this will give you a richer, more luxurious taste. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter finish, consider substituting half of the dark chocolate with milk chocolate chips, providing a smoother texture.

Techniques for Success

When melting the chocolate, be mindful of the microwave settings. Using 30-second intervals on medium power helps prevent overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. You’ll know it’s ready when the chocolate is fully melted and glossy, allowing for easy mixing with other ingredients. If you accidentally overheat it, you can stir in a small amount of coconut oil to salvage the texture, bringing it back to a liquid state smoothly.

To ensure your granola bark has a uniform layer and sets properly, press down gently on the mixture once poured onto the baking sheet. This compacts the ingredients, helping them adhere to one another as they cool. Also, if you'd like a thicker bark, consider using a smaller baking sheet to increase the height of the mixture. Just be sure to adjust the chilling time accordingly, as a thicker layer may take longer to set.

Ingredients

For the Granola Bark

2 cups granola
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, apricots)
1 tsp sea salt
1 tbsp coconut oil

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bark from sticking.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted.

Mix in the Ingredients

Once melted, add the granola, mixed nuts, and dried fruits to the chocolate. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Spread the Mixture

Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle sea salt on top.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate for about 1 hour or until the chocolate has completely set. Once firm, break into pieces and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bark with your favorite mix-ins, such as seeds, different chocolates, or spices for an added flavor kick!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Granola Bark can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy days or special events. After breaking it into pieces, store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider placing it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to two weeks while retaining its delightful crunch and flavor.

If you want to freeze this treat, you can do so for up to three months. Just ensure the pieces are individually wrapped in parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container. This will prevent freezer burn, maintaining the texture and quality. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let the bark thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Granola Bark with different mix-ins to suit your taste. For instance, adding crispy rice cereal gives an extra crunch and light texture. You can also experiment with various nuts and seeds – sunflower seeds or hazelnuts work wonderfully as alternatives. Try incorporating a sprinkle of sea salt caramel for a sweet-savory twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.

To further elevate this treat, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before chilling it. This not only adds a decorative touch but also creates a beautiful contrast with the dark chocolate base. You might also sprinkle some edible glitter or heart-shaped sprinkles during the final step to make it even more festive for Valentine's Day celebrations, captivating both the eyes and the taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and sweetness.

→ How long will the granola bark last?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

→ Can I add other ingredients like seeds or coconut?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite ingredients.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, just ensure the chocolate chips and any other ingredients are vegan-friendly.