Holiday Chocolate Granola

This chocolate granola is cozy, simple to make, and just indulgent enough to feel festive. Think

holiday comfort with an anti-inflammatory, polyphenol-rich twist. It’s great with breakfast, as a

healthy snack, or as a gift for family and friends. Adjust the flavors and make it your own!

Serves: ~8–10

Ingredients

• 4 cups regular rolled oats

• ½ cup sliced or chopped almonds

• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds or chia seeds

• 1 ½ tablespoons natural cacao powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (optional; omit for salt-free)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• ¼–⅓ cup pure maple syrup (to taste)

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (optional; omit for oil-free)

• 1/3 cup chopped dates

• 1/3- ½ cup dark vegan chocolate chips (or cacao nibs)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat to 325°F and position a rack in the center. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, sliced almonds, ground flaxseed, cacao powder, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and salt. Stir well to evenly coat the oats and nuts.

3. Add the wet ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil (if using), vanilla extract, and almond extract. Pour over the oat mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Bake

Spread the granola in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until lightly toasted and fragrant. Watch closely during the final minutes to prevent over-browning.

5. Cool and finish

Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet, so the granola crisps. Once cool, gently stir in the chopped dates and chocolate chips or cacao nibs.

6. Store

Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Perfect for: Breakfast bowls, yogurt, or a delicious handful straight from the jar

Why this holiday chocolate granola loves you back

Rich in fiber and polyphenols, this holiday chocolate granola supports blood sugar balance, gut

health, and inflammation regulation, making it a grounding, nourishing treat for the holidays.

And it’s delicious!

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