Imagine waking up to the most decadent, festive breakfast that transforms your ordinary morning into a winter wonderland of flavor! This Chocolate Peppermint Holiday Granola isn't just a recipe—it's a sensory experience that promises to elevate your holiday mornings from mundane to magical. With a perfect blend of rich cocoa, cooling peppermint, and crunchy oats, this granola will make you feel like you're unwrapping a delicious gift with every single bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup nuts or seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and cocoa powder, whisking thoroughly to ensure the cocoa is evenly distributed throughout the oats.
- In a separate small bowl, mix maple syrup, vegetable oil, and peppermint extract until well combined, creating a smooth liquid mixture.
- Pour the liquid ingredients over the dry oat mixture, stirring carefully to coat every oat completely with the chocolate-peppermint liquid.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet, creating a thin, uniform layer to ensure consistent toasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Remove from oven when the granola is crisp and appears slightly darkened, with a rich chocolate aroma filling the kitchen.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, which helps it become extra crispy.
- Once cooled, sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts or seeds over the granola, gently mixing to distribute evenly.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, enjoying as a festive holiday breakfast or snack.
Tips
- • For maximum crispiness, spread the granola in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet • Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure uniform toasting and prevent burning • Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve that perfect crunch • Use high-quality cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor • Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness • For a more decadent version, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled granola • Toast nuts separately before adding to enhance their nutty flavor
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
