Chocolate granola, a better way to curb that insatiable chocolate craving.

Often when I’m busy or highly stressed or, honestly, a combination of both I find myself craving chocolate. Yes, chocolate and not just any chocolate craving but an unquenchable lust. I know this may sound extreme but honestly it’s very true. Nothing quite makes me feel better or calmer than a delicious chocolate bar. Now, I know, I can’t eat chocolate each and every single day and use it as a crutch to comfort myself. It's just not a very healthy habit to have. That’s why these chocolate granola bites are a lifesaver! Whenever I have a severe chocolate craving I just snack on one of these bites. The added fiber from the oats, banana chips and nuts make this snack way more satiating than your standard chocolate bar. While the natural chocolate hazelnut spread curbs my annoying chocolate munchies without consuming too much sugar. The perfect snack for any avid chocolate junkie, like myself.

Chocolate Banana Nut Granola Bites

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup natural chocolate hazelnut spread

¼ cup honey 

¼ tsp salt

½ cup banana chips, chopped

¼ cup almonds, chopped

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a small sheet pan with parchment. Measure out the oats and toast for about 15 minutes, you want the oats to be lightly toasted and aromatic. After they are done, allow them to cool to room temperature. 

While the oats are cooling, mix together the hazelnut spread and the honey in a large bowl. 

Add your cooled oats, salt, banana chips and almonds; mix until everything is evenly coated. 

Line an 8x8” baking pan with parchment paper and add your mixed granola into the pan. Take another piece of parchment and place on top of the granola. Press the granola down firmly until  the granola reaches all the sides of the pan. Cover with the parchment and chill in the fridge for at least an hour or until the granola feels firm.

Once firm, cut the granola into squares or bars. Store your granola bits in an airtight container and place in the fridge. 

*Notes: If bars or squares aren’t your thing, you can easily shape the granola into balls and follow the instructions for setting and refrigerating. 

For this recipe, I do use a natural nut butter to reduce the amount of sugar in the granola. If sugar content is not a concern for you, feel free to use Nutella instead.