Paleo (Pumpkin) Chocolate Granola
Raise your hand if you love the smell of melted chocolate, with the occasional hint of cozy pumpkin! This energizing sweet is full of healthy, omega-3 fats and fiber, and is so easily customizable, to fit your pantry’s components. I put a festive spin on my classic, paleo granola, but both are still an addictive topping for yogurt, crunch in a smoothie, and a healthy snack. Trust me, after giving this a go, I doubt you will go back to store bought bags anytime soon either!
Ingredients:
1.5 cups walnuts
1 cup almonds
1/2 cup pecans
1/2 cup coconut, desiccated + unsweetened
1/4 cup flax seeds
1/4 cup cacao nibs
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 tbsp honey (optional)
2 tbsp cacao powder
1/2 tbsp of each: allspice, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice (make your own here!)
1/2+ cup chocolate chips
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place all nuts and seeds in a food processor and lightly pulse, just enough to chop everything up.
Melt the coconut oil and pour it into a large bowl.
Stir the honey, if using, cacao powder, and all three spices in.
Add the nuts, seeds, and cacao nibs, then stir until everything is coated well.
Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, keeping everything close together.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, then disperse the chocolate chips on top of everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chocolate has melted.
Using a spatula, carefully spread the melted chocolate flat, while keeping the granola close together. This will help keep the soon-to-be clusters intact!
Place in the freezer for 16-20 minutes, until fully hardened and chilled
Enjoy the giant clusters and use the finished product as crunchy topping, or eat plain with a spoon!
Store leftovers in the fridge. Bonus for a cute jar!
Notes:
Any combination of nuts is totally welcomed here, just make sure you use 3 cups total.
Chia or hemp seeds can go in place of the flax seeds.
Maple syrup can be substituted for honey, if desired.
Simply omit the three spices, allspice, cinnamon, and pumkin pie spice, for just chocolate granola. No wrong choice here!
