Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups whole rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, or almonds, or a mix of both
- ½ cup coconut flakes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter
Add-ins
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped walnuts or almonds, optional coconut flakes, cinnamon, and sea salt. This will form the flavorful base of your granola.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Drizzle the melted coconut oil and maple syrup over the dry mixture, then add the creamy almond butter. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated and evenly mixed.
- Shape the Granola: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and press it into a 1-inch-thick oval shape. This compact shape encourages the granola to clump together as it bakes.
- First Bake: Bake the granola for 15 minutes. This initial baking starts the cooking process and helps develop texture.
- Rotate and Break: Remove the pan, rotate it to ensure even baking, and use a fork to gently break up the granola slightly. This step helps create natural clusters while preventing large chunks.
- Second Bake: Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the granola is golden brown and crisp.
- Add Dried Fruit and Cool: Sprinkle the dried cranberries on top if using, then allow the granola to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. Cooling helps it fully set and become crunchy before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds based on your preference.
- For a nut-free version, try using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Ensure the granola cools completely before storing to maintain crispness.
- Store homemade granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Adjust the maple syrup quantity to control sweetness according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan