Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters as a delicious snack that satisfies my cravings without feeling guilty. The combination of rich chocolate and chewy coconut is simply irresistible, and the oats add a wholesome touch. It's easy to whip up a batch, and I can customize it with different nuts or seeds to suit my mood. Plus, they make for a great energy boost during the day, whether I'm at work or just need a pick-me-up at home.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:01:15.771Z

When I first created these Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters, I wanted a quick recipe that combined my favorite snacks into one tasty treat. The balance of flavors and textures is simply delightful! The chocolate melts into the oats, creating a deliciously chewy bite that's enhanced by the toasted coconut flakes.

What I discovered while perfecting this recipe is that using a mix of dark and milk chocolate can elevate the sweetness and richness. It's the little details that make a big difference, and I recommend adding a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra layer of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tropical coconut essence
Nutty oats provide a satisfying crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

      

Perfecting Your Clusters

When making Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters, the texture is key. You want them to hold their shape but also be chewy. Ensure that the melted honey or maple syrup and nut butter mixture is fully combined before mixing it with the oats and coconut. This will help bind the ingredients better together, resulting in clusters that don’t crumble. Pay attention to the heat; if you leave the nut butter mixture on the stove too long, you risk burning it or causing it to thicken too much.

Another tip is to allow some of the clusters to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without crumbling apart, ensuring that you maintain those delightful bite-sized shapes. These clusters should have a slightly glossy appearance once baked, indicating that the chocolate has melted into the mixture beautifully.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can substitute the shredded coconut with other mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or seeds to personalize the clusters according to your taste. If you are looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works well as a nut butter alternative. Additionally, switching out dark chocolate chips for milk or white chocolate can alter the flavor profile entirely, giving you a sweeter treat or a mild counterpart to the coconut's tropical notes.

For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a sugar-free sweetener in place of honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that some sugar substitutes may behave differently in baking, so follow the product guidelines for the best results. A little experimentation can lead to new favorites that perfectly suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract and salt.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the rolled oats and shredded coconut.

Combine and Form Clusters

Pour the melted mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Fold in the dark chocolate chips. Scoop tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding nuts or dried fruit to the mixture. You can also use different types of chocolate to suit your taste.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once the Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining their freshness. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can also refrigerate them, where they can last for two to three weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

If you're making a larger batch, freezing is an excellent option. Place the clusters in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for about three months. Just remember to allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying. This make-ahead strategy is perfect for busy weeks when you crave a quick, healthy snack.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Oat Clusters are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a quick breakfast, serve them with yogurt and fresh fruit. The clusters add a satisfying crunch to your standard morning routine and can easily be made ahead of time. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes for both kids and adults, providing a sweet treat that isn't overly indulgent.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider using the clusters as a topping for ice cream or as a component in dessert charcuterie boards. Their rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture offer an appealing contrast to creamy desserts or fresh fruits. You can even break them into smaller pieces and use them as a garnish for cakes or cupcakes for added flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, but it will increase the overall sweetness of the clusters.

→ How should I store these clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these chocolate clusters?

Absolutely! Place clusters in a freezer-safe container and they’ll keep well for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute for honey.