Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups

Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups are my favorite answer to a sweet craving in minutes. Instead of rushing to the oven, you get melt-in-your-mouth chocolate layered with crunchy granola and bright dried cherries all in one poppable treat. Plus they look so festive and pretty on a dessert tray or packed for a snack.

I first made these for a picnic with friends and they vanished before the sandwiches even came out. Now I keep a stash in the freezer for last minute guests or a midday pick me up with coffee.

Ingredients

• Dark chocolate wafers or chocolate chips: brings rich flavor and sets up smoothly look for a quality brand with high cocoa content

• White chocolate wafers or white chocolate chips: creates the pretty two tone effect choose real cocoa butter if possible for best melting

• Granola: adds crunchy texture and hearty flavor try to pick one with clusters and minimal added sugar for best bite

• Dried cherries: give a burst of tart sweet fruitiness unsweetened ones are especially punchy and bright

When selecting chocolate check the ingredient list for cocoa butter and avoid lots of fillers this will ensure your cups snap and melt perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Dark Chocolate:

In a medium bowl microwave the dark chocolate wafers or chips on medium power stirring every fifteen seconds to avoid scorching continue until silky smooth

Fill the Muffin Cups with Dark Chocolate:

Spoon about two tablespoons of melted dark chocolate into each of twelve mini muffin cups spreading it up the sides a bit to create a little well

Add the Granola and Dried Cherries:

While the chocolate is still warm sprinkle each cup with a layer of granola then press a few dried cherries gently on top

Melt the White Chocolate:

Repeat the same microwave process as the dark chocolate using the white chocolate until perfectly smooth and pourable

Top with White Chocolate:

Spoon an even layer of melted white chocolate over the granola and cherries making sure everything is tucked in and evenly covered

Chill to Set:

Place the filled muffin tin in the refrigerator for fifteen to twenty minutes until the chocolate is fully set and firm to the touch

Remove from Tins:

Once chilled run a butter knife gently around the edge of each cup and lift out store at room temperature in a covered container or tuck into the refrigerator or freezer to extend freshness

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My favorite part is the cherry pop of flavor against the bittersweet chocolate I remember making these with my daughter and watching her pick out extra cherries for her cups Now it is a little mom daughter tradition to make these together for holiday movie nights

Storage Tips

Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups keep beautifully for weeks either at room temperature in a sealed container or tucked in the fridge for extra crunch I often freeze a batch on a tray then transfer to a bag so quick snacks are always on hand They taste fantastic straight from the freezer and hold their shape perfectly

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap dried cherries for dried cranberries or blueberries if that is what you have on hand Different granolas work too I love one with nuts or seeds for extra texture If lactose is a concern try dairy free chocolate alternatives

Serving Suggestions

Serve these with coffee or tea for an easy after dinner treat or tuck a couple into a lunchbox for a midday chocolate fix They make a pretty edible gift too just wrap them in little paper cups and place in a box for friends

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Cultural and Historical Context

Granola cups take inspiration from both snack bars and old fashioned bonbons With a nod to American dessert traditions they marry the convenience of pantry staples with the joy of chocolate confections Chocolate and fruit have always had a place on dessert tables and here you get that classic combo in a quick new way

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use only one type of chocolate?

Absolutely, you can choose just dark or white chocolate based on your preference for a single flavor.

→ What kind of granola works best?

Any variety is suitable, but a crunchy granola without added dried fruits or large clusters gives the best texture.

→ How should I store the mini cups?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other dried fruits or nuts?

Yes, chopped nuts or other dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries make flavorful add-ins.

→ Do I need a specific type of muffin tin?

Mini muffin tins work best, but you can use standard ones for larger portions—just adjust quantities accordingly.