Valentines Snacks Chocolate Granola Hearts

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Granola Hearts for Valentine's Day! With a delicious balance of sweet and crunchy, they have become a beloved treat for loved ones and friends alike. I find the process of layering rich chocolate with wholesome granola not only fun but deeply satisfying. When we share these delightful snacks, the joy they bring to everyone is just priceless. They make the perfect gift that says, 'I care,' and they are so easy to whip up in just about an hour!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:07:15.742Z

When I first made these Chocolate Granola Hearts, I was amazed by how simple yet delightful they were! Combining oats, nuts, and chocolate in heart-shaped molds was so much fun. The granola adds a satisfying crunch, while the chocolate hugs all the ingredients beautifully, making each bite a treat to cherish.

One of my favorite tips is to let the granola cool slightly before cutting it into hearts. This allows the chocolate to set perfectly without making a mess. Now, they’ve become my go-to snack during Valentine's celebrations!

        Reasons You'll Fall for These Treats
        Deliciously crunchy with a chocolatey twist
Customizable with your favorite nuts and fruits
An adorable way to express your love this Valentine’s Day

      

The Role of Ingredients

In this recipe, the foundation is built on rolled oats, which provide a hearty texture and serve as a base for the crunchy granola hearts. The addition of mixed nuts not only enhances the flavor with a variety of textures but also adds healthy fats and protein, making these snacks more filling. When choosing nuts, consider using a mix that includes almonds for their crunchiness and walnuts for their distinct flavor. Adjusting the nut blend can tailor the snacks to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

Cocoa powder is essential in this recipe, bringing a rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar found in chocolate chips. Using unsweetened cocoa powder allows you to control the sweetness when combined with honey or maple syrup. Both provide natural sweetness while also working as binders in the granola mixture, ensuring the hearts hold their shape when baked. For a lighter touch, you could substitute agave syrup; however, this may affect the overall texture slightly.

Perfecting the Heart Shape

Using silicone molds for shaping the granola hearts is key to achieving the desired form without the mess of traditional metal pans. Silicone molds are flexible and help in easily releasing the granola hearts once they have cooled. Be sure to pack the mixture tightly into the molds, pressing down firmly, which prevents the hearts from crumbling after baking. If your molds are shallow, consider adjusting the bake time; they may need just a couple of minutes less to avoid overcooking.

You can also customize the shapes by using cookie cutters if silicone molds aren’t available. Simply press the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cut into heart shapes. Keep in mind this method might yield less uniform hearts, so working quickly is crucial to prevent the mixture from hardening as you shape it.

Ingredients

Granola Hearts Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted dark chocolate
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Feel free to add dried fruits or seeds to personalize your granola hearts!

Instructions

Prepare the Granola Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, mixed nuts, cocoa powder, honey, melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Shape the Hearts

Spoon the mixture into heart-shaped silicone molds, pressing down firmly to ensure they hold their shape.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the molds for about 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Set the Chocolate

Once cooled, drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top for decoration, if desired. Allow to set before removing from molds.

Store in an airtight container for a delightful snack anytime!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of espresso powder to the granola mix.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once cooled and set, these Chocolate Granola Hearts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them return to room temperature before enjoying, as it's easier to bite into and appreciate the textures when they’re not cold.

For longer storage, you can freeze these treats. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or use the microwave for quick defrosting. Keep a close eye to avoid melting the chocolate too much.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can substitute the mixed nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds if you want a nut-free option. Adding dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries after mixing gives a delightful burst of flavor and chewiness to each bite. Just be mindful of the added sugars from dried fruits and adjust honey or maple syrup accordingly to maintain balance.

For a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper into the granola mixture. This not only enhances the flavor profile but adds an exciting kick that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. If you’re in the mood for different textures, folded-in crispy rice cereal can provide an added crunch that complements the granola.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these granola hearts ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can customize these hearts with dried fruits, seeds, or even different types of nuts to suit your taste!

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these granola hearts can be gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftover granola hearts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for up to two weeks.