Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Hearts

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 hearts
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup mixed nuts (chopped); 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Chocolate Granola Hearts for Valentine’s Day! They are not only adorable, but they are also packed with delicious flavors and a satisfying crunch. Each heart is a perfect blend of rich chocolate and hearty granola, making them a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Whether you're celebrating with loved ones or treating yourself, these chocolatey snacks will surely melt your heart. Plus, they are super easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:01:21.643Z

When I first made these Chocolate Granola Hearts, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The combination of oats and nuts mixed with dark chocolate gives each bite an incredible flavor. I also love how customizable this recipe is; feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds!

One of my best tips for perfecting these treats is to ensure the chocolate is melted smoothly, which prevents clumping and allows for a more even coating on the granola. Celebrate love and happiness with these delightful snacks!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously crunchy granola held together with rich chocolate
Perfectly shaped hearts make them ideal for gifting or celebrations
A healthier sweet treat that satisfies cravings without guilt

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Chocolate Granola Hearts is, of course, the rolled oats. They not only provide the base for the granola but also add a satisfying crunch and hearty texture. Make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results; quick oats lack the structure needed to hold the shape of the hearts while still being chewy. If you prefer, you can easily swap some of the rolled oats with puffed quinoa or rice to add an intriguing texture contrast.

Choosing the right sweetener is crucial for achieving flavor harmony. Honey adds a lovely floral sweetness, while maple syrup lends a subtle depth. If you're looking for a vegan option, opt for agave syrup, which closely mimics honey's consistency and sweetness. Just be mindful that different sweeteners can slightly alter the firmness of the final product, so adjust your wet and dry ratios if you switch things up.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Hearts

When it comes to shaping your hearts, pressing the granola mixture firmly into the cookie cutters is vital. Use a flat bottom of a cup or spatula to pack it down evenly; this will help the granola maintain its heart shape when baked. If you notice the mixture is too crumbly and doesn't hold together, consider adding a touch more honey or a splash of water to enhance the binding effect.

For easier removal from the molds, lightly grease your cookie cutters with non-stick spray or a bit of coconut oil before filling them up. This step ensures the granola hearts don't cling to the edges, allowing for a clean release. Remember, patience is key: let the granola cool and bind properly before attempting to remove them.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Chocolate Granola Hearts:

For Granola Hearts

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup mixed nuts (chopped)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delightful Chocolate Granola Hearts:

Prepare the Granola Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, honey or maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated.

Shape the Hearts

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using heart-shaped cookie cutters or molds, spoon the granola mixture into the shapes, pressing firmly to hold them together.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until completely smooth.

Coat the Hearts

Remove the heart shapes carefully from the molds and drizzle the melted chocolate over each one. Allow them to cool and harden for about 15 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has set, your Chocolate Granola Hearts are ready to enjoy! Serve them as a sweet treat or package them as gifts.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots into the granola mixture. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate for a delicious sweet-salty contrast.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Granola Hearts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last for about two weeks. However, be aware that storing them in the fridge can affect the texture, making them slightly less chewy.

For extended storage, these treats also freeze beautifully. After they have cooled and hardened, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying their delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These granola hearts are incredibly versatile! Consider pairing them with a scoop of yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter for a wholesome breakfast or snack. They can also serve as festive toppings for ice cream or smoothie bowls. Additionally, feel free to sprinkle some sea salt or chopped dried fruits on top before the chocolate hardens for added flavor contrast.

If you're preparing these for a gathering, consider packaging them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a charming gift idea. Not only do they look adorable, but they also offer a thoughtful homemade touch that shows you care. They're perfect for school parties, Valentine’s Day gift exchanges, or even as an indulgent treat for your own self-care moments.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

→ How long will the granola hearts last?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week without losing their crunch.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free oats and double-check your other ingredients for any gluten content.

→ Are there any alternative sweeteners I can use?

Yes, you can substitute the honey or maple syrup with agave nectar or coconut sugar based on your dietary preferences.