Apricot & dark chocolate granola

Apricots and dark chocolate granola can be a nourishing choice during the luteal phase and menstruation. Dried apricots provide iron and potassium, nutrients that may help support energy levels and replace minerals lost during menstruation, while their natural sweetness can satisfy cravings more healthily. Dark chocolate contains magnesium and antioxidants, which are often associated with supporting mood and reducing feelings of fatigue.

Ingredients

300g rolled oats

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of sea salt

Wet ingredients

3 tbsp coconut oil, melted

3 tbsp maple syrup or honey

1 tsp vanilla extract

After baking

100g coconut flakes

50g pumpkin seeds

100g dried apricots, roughly chopped

50–75g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, and sea salt.

3. In a small bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour over the oat mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Spread the mixture evenly across the baking tray.

5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and fragrant. For larger clusters, gently press the mixture down with the back of a spoon before baking and avoid stirring too much.

6. Allow the granola to cool completely on the tray. This is when it becomes crunchy.

7. Once cooled, stir through the chopped dried apricots, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes and dark chocolate chunks.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy with:

Greek yoghurt and fresh berries

Kefir for a gut-friendly breakfast

A smoothie bowl topping

Store in an airtight container for a week. Make a batch at the start of the week for quick, nourishing breakfasts that are ready whenever you need them.