- April 1, 2024
- Breakfast, Quick Bites
You’ve been asking and I’ve been listening! I wanted to make it to 20 but 18 should keep y’all BUSY! This is my very first round-up and houses ALL of my gluten free, dairy free, and totally plant based granola recipes!
I couldn’t have done this without all of you! Your ideas and questions are a daily inspiration for me and I am so excited to be sharing this with you. I am breaking down ALL THINGS GRANOLA in this blog.
If you’ve been around long enough you will know that gluten free granola and I have a long love affair that just keeps growing and blooming and I think I’ve gotten a couple thousand of you HOOKED! Thank me later heheh.
Without further ado, I am sharing all the tips on how to get the ultimate clump, and the best flavour and sharing ALL of my granola tools with you here! So take your time, bookmark this blog and share it with any of your granola crunchin’ friends because it’s a goodie! Before I dive into all the recipes, let’s get the basics out of the way…
What is Granola?
Granola is a wholesome, versatile, and delightful blend of baked ingredients that typically includes old fashioned rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Often mixed with oil or melted butter to ensure the perfect crunch. One of the best things about granola is the ability to customize it with a variety of add-ins such as dried fruits, chocolate, coconut flakes, and spices like cinnamon or vanilla, making it a highly adaptable snack or breakfast option.
What is the Difference Between Granola and Muesli?
Granola and muesli are both popular breakfast foods known for their health benefits and versatility; however, there are a few fundamental differences. One of my main differences is thatGranolais baked to crunchy perfection while muesli is typically a similar mixture of ingredients but eaten raw. Granola is often served changed to room temperature or cold. Mueslican be eaten cold but often warmed or soaked in milk, yogurt or juice. Granola can be eaten as a snack on its own, served with yogurt, milk, or on top of smoothie bowls and desserts. Both offer nutritious benefits and can be part of a healthy diet, depending on personal preferences and dietary needs.
Now that that’s out of the way! Let’s jump into these amazing homemade healthy granola recipes!
The Ultimate Healthy Homemade Granola Recipes
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Toast Crunch Granola
Take a walk down memory lane with a healthier stride. This gluten free granola recipe version of your favorite childhood cereal is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to relive those sweet moments, minus the guilt!
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Cookie Butter Granola
Prepare to have your mind blown. Crafted with myhomemade cookie butterthis granola hasthe perfect crunch and the most indulgent taste. The best part is it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, destined to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire.
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Botanica Pumpkin Protein Granola
This protein packed granola will help you build muscles thetasty way! Featuring a blend of hearty oats, pumpkin, and brazil nuts, plus a protein boost from Botanica Health’s Perfect Protein, this granola is a nutritional powerhouse flavored with the warmest spices.
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Pistachio Pecan Blueberry Granola
Dive into the unique, satisfying granola that’s more on the savoury side with a mix of salted pistachios, rich pistachio butter, and antioxidant-packed blueberries. It’s an unparalleled sweet and salty experience, making mornings genuinely exciting.
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Tahini Chocolate Chai Granola
This granola is a delightful blend of warming spices, nuts, seeds, and a hint of chocolate, creating a gluten-free, nutritious option for any time of the day. Especially enjoyed in the colder months when you’re craving a cozy breakfast!
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Nutella Granola
This recipe marries myHomemade Nutellawith hazelnuts, cacao, and oats for a healthful twist on a beloved flavor combination. Indulge in this healthier twist on a classic nut spread.
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Pecan Cinnamon Roll Granola
Imagine the aroma of cinnamon rolls in nut granola form. With roasted pecans that transform when baked, this granola could easily become your next obsession!
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola
Embrace the magic of chocolate and peanut butter, transformed into a protein-rich granola that harkens back to childhood while appealing to adult tastes. It’s like a Reesespiece but way better!
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Cinnamon Raisin Granola
Bask in the warmth of cinnamon with this oat, nut, and raisin medley, subtly sweetened with maple syrup. This classic oatmeal cookie combination makes for a simple yet comforting granola cereal perfect for a breakfast treat that elevates any morning.
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Nut-Free Tahini Granola
Catering to nut-free dietary needs, this granola uses tahini and is sweetened with organic maple syrup, offering a gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
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Almond Cacao Granola
A rich and indulgent blend, this granola combines the luxurious flavors of almond butter and cacao. It’s a quick, delectable treat that might just become your new addiction, perfectly balancing chocolatey goodness with the health benefits of almonds.
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Black Sesame Tahini Granola
This granola brings a unique twist with black sesame and tahini, offering a deliciously different flavor profile that you didn’t know you needed. It’s a testament to the versatility of granola and its ability to incorporate unique ingredients.
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Buckwheat Groat Granola
Celebrating the simplicity and joy of homemade granola, this recipe utilizes buckwheat groats for a delightful crunch and nutritional boost, proving that granola can indeed be a sprinkle of happiness on everything.
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Gingerbread Granola
Embracing the cozy flavors of the holiday season, this gingerbread-inspired granola is a warm, spiced treat that combines the classic tastes of nutmeg and allspice with the wholesomeness of vegan ingredients.
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Pumpkin Chai Granola
Taking the depth of chai spices and combining it with the desirable crunch of granola is done perfectly in this granola.It blends the autumnal flavors of pumpkin and chai spices, creating a vegan treat that’s perfect for those crisp fall mornings or any time you crave a spice-infused snack.
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Blueberry Tahini Cardamom Granola
With an inventive combination of blueberries, tahini, and cardamom, this granola recipe offers a unique taste experience, proving that variety truly is the spice of life in the world of granola.
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Chai Granola
A collaboration that highlights the aromatic and inviting flavors of chai, this vegan granola is a must-try for anyone who loves the complex taste profile of this beloved spice blend.
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Tried and True Granola
This classic recipe encapsulates the essence of granola-making, blending gluten-free oats, almonds, and pecans with the sweetness of raisins and the richness of olive oil and maple syrup. Enhanced with sea salt and cinnamon, and bound together with peanut butter for perfect clumping.
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Now let’s dive into the details of granola that I get so many questions about!
I’m about to break down all the tools I use, how to perfect the clump, common substitutions and the importance of ratios and patience!
Necessary Tools for Making the Perfect Granola
Ever wonder how I make my granola so clumpy and delicious?
Crafting the perfect batch of homemade granola isn’t just about mixing the right ingredients; it’s also about having the right tools and high-quality ingredients at your fingertips. Here are the essentials to ensure your granola turns out perfectly every time.
Pampered Chef Medium Stoneware Bar Pan:One of the TOP asked questions is what baking sheets I use for my granola and without a doubt it is ALWAYS these. Pampered chef stoneware pans offer a rimmed baking sheet that provides even heat distribution, guaranteeing that every oat and nut is toasted beautifully. Click here
12″ Teak Wooden Spatula: This spatula from WOODENHOUSE LIFELONG QUALITY is not only durable but also safe to use on all types of baking sheets, including your precious stoneware. Click here
Ball 64oz Wide Mouth Half Gallon Mason Jar:Perfect size jar for storing your homemade granola as it seals tight, keeping it fresh and crunchy long after it’s made. Their wide mouth makes it easy to pour your granola for breakfast or a quick snack. Click here
Cuisipro 3 in 1 Funnel Set: Ensuring you don’t drop a single clump, these help in transferring your liquid ingredients without mess, ensuring a smooth cooking experience. Click here
High Quality Ingredients for Granola
Yupik Shredded Coconut:Many of my recipes include shredded coconut and this is the one I go to time and time again! High-quality ingredients make all the difference in homemade granola. This 1 kg pack ensures you have plenty on hand for multiple batches. Click here
Escuminac Great Harvest Canadian Maple Syrup:I’m lucky enough to often use my parent’s homemade maple syrup but when I run out of thatliquid gold I turn to this one. Never skimp on the sweetener of your granola as it absolutely makes a difference and can keep your granola on the healthy side.Click here
Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract:Another granola must is vanilla and this brand offers a certified organic option that brings a warm, floral aroma to your mixture. Click here
Bob’s Red Mill Steel Cut Oats, Gluten Free:Even if certified gluten free oats were not a necessity in my household I would still choose these oats over and over again. All oats are gluten free naturally however if they are not made in a gluten free establishment they can have cross-contamination. Bob’s is a highly trusted brand and they provide the perfect chewy texture that’s a hallmark of great granola. Click here
Nuts To You Pumpkin Seed Butter, Peanut Butter, Almond Butter & NutJar Premium Pistachio Butter: Any of these nut butters are amazing and often my top choice for adding a punch of protein. They are amazing for binding the granola and adding flavour.
Homemade Granola Ingredients
Now that you know some of my favoriteingredients it’s time to go into details about WHY I choose the ingredients that I do. I love mixing different spices so don’t be afraid to play!Cinnamon and ginger are two of my all time favourites but I love chai blend, and pumpkin spice blend. I have yet to make a savoury granola but might dip my toes in that water soon!
- Rolled Oats: The heart of any granola, providing a classic chew and ample fibre.
- Nuts and Seeds: I love mixing and matching with nuts and seeds; specific combinations can elevate any recipe and turn it into a classic or totally experimental. Unsweetened coconut flakes are also an amazing addition.
- Spices: Cinnamon is my go to, but you’ll see that I use a variety of different spices in my granola recipes.
- Oils and Butters: An essential to help bind the granola, creating those delightful clusters. This is often where you can add extra protein when it comes to nut butters.
Granola often gets a bad reputation as store boughtgranolas are filled with preservatives, added sugars and oils. One of the best things about making your own granola is having FULL control over what goes into it and how much. When you get to control what goes into something you get to manage the narrative around it. No food is inherently BAD or GOOD but making any of my granola recipes can make you feel BETTER as you know what you’re eating.
Customize your granola recipe
Customizing your granola recipe allows you to cater to your dietary preferences, taste buds, and even what you have on hand in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of crunchy clusters or a granola that’s perfect for sprinkling over yogurt, picking and choosing the ingredients that work the best for you is what is most important. Here are some common substitutions or alternative options for common granola ingredients.
- Nuts: from almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, peanuts, brazil nuts or pistachios.
- Seeds: pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds or chia seeds for a boost of healthy fats and proteins.
- Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can all be used and just remember to start with less and add more as you go to adjust your sweetness preference.
- Oils: Experiment with coconut oil, olive oil or any other oil you have on hand.Make sure to consider cooking temperatures when choosing oils if not going with olive or coconut.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for different flavour profiles.
- Extracts: Vanilla, almond or hazelnut extracts can bring a comforting aroma and depth of flavour.
- Dried Fruit: Incorporating dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots after baking for a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- Chocolate Chips or Cacao Nibs: Add after the granola has cooled for a touch of indulgence.
- Nut Butter: There are so many nut butters to choose from. I love to play with different ones such as peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter or even pistachio butter for richness and to help form clusters.
- Seed Butter:If you are opting for a nut free granola there are so many seed butters to try! Consider sunflower butter, pumpkin seed butter, tahini, hemp seed butter or even chia seed butter!
How to Make Healthy Granola
Through experimentation, I’ve landed on a magical ratio that ensures every batch of granola is as delightful as the last: equal parts olive oil, nut butter, and maple syrup. This trio acts as the foundational “sauce” that coats the oats, nuts, and seeds, ensuring each granule is perfectly seasoned and ready to crisp up in the oven. I have never found a nut or seed butter that doesn’t work. The beauty of this formula lies in its versatility. Whether your nut butter of choice is thick and creamy or on the thinner side, it doesn’t matter. Heating this mixture and stirring until it becomes hom*ogeneous, ensuring no lumps remain is also so important. This process allows the nut butter to blend seamlessly with the olive oil and maple syrup, creating a smooth sauce that envelops each ingredient in a rich, flavorful coating.
Many of my granola recipes follow a very similar formula which has now proven to be a signature to my amazing clumps and flavour profiles! Here are the basics to making an unforgettablegranola.
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 320degrees convection or 325 degrees regular. This moderate temperature allows the granola to toast evenly without burning.
Pre Soaking Fruits: If a recipe has raisins or another dried fruit that is added during the baking process and not after, I highly recommend presoakingfor 10 minutes in warm water. This will help ensure they do not get rock hard in the baking process!
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats with your choice of chopped nuts and seeds. If you’re adding spices, mix them in with the dry ingredients to ensure even distribution.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine equal parts olive oil, nut butter, and maple syrup. Heat the mixture, stirring continuously until everything is well combined and smooth. As mentioned previously, you want to ensure there are no lumps.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the warm sauce over the dry oat mixture. Stir thoroughly until all the oats, nuts, and seeds are coated evenly. The goal is to make sure every piece is covered in the mixture.
Spread Granola on a Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet. If the mixture is too crowded, use two baking sheets. Pressing the granola down firmly will help create those desirable chunky clusters.
Bake with Care: Bake in the preheated oven for about20 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, rotate the pans to ensure even baking. To maintain chunky clusters, do not touch untilcompletely cool. If you prefer a loose granola, give it a gentle stir halfway through.
Add Extras: If you’re adding dried fruit, coconut flakes, or chocolate chips, do so once the granola has cooled. This prevents the dried fruit from hardening and the chocolate from melting.
Store Properly: Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for several weeks.
Chunky Granola Tips
This is probably the question I get the MOST! “Why don’t I get clumps like yours?” I promise you this is so much easier to achieve than you think all it takes is a little patience and proper preparation before baking!
- Wet to Dry Ingredients Ratios: Your wet ingredients (like maple syrup, honey, or oils) should coat your dry ingredients (oats, nuts, seeds) well but not drench them. This ensures everything sticks together while baking without becoming soggy. Reducing the sweetener is okay but don’t skip it entirely as liquid sweeteners like maple syrup help bind the granola. The sugar caramelizes and hardens as it cools, helping to hold those chunky clusters together.
- Press Down Before Baking: Once you’ve spread your granola mixture on the baking sheet, press it down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Think of it as compacting the mixture slightly, which encourages the ingredients to stick together as they bake.
- Cool Completely Before Breaking Up: Once out of the oven, let your granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period is crucial as the granola continues to crisp up and the clusters set.
Homemade Granola Storage Tips
I store my granola in masonjars. I have a half-gallon mason jar, especially for my granola. It’s big but not big enough for 1 batch. I use a second smaller mason jar for the spillover and store it in my pantry. Before storing, allow your granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial because any residual warmth can lead to condensation when stored, making your granola lose its delightful crunch. Once completely cooled; transfer into airtight containers. Ensure your storage spot is cool and dry. Moisture is the enemy of granola, so avoid areas prone to dampness or steam, like near the stove or dishwasher. A pantry, cupboard, or even your freezer can be ideal places to store your granola.
How to Serve Healthy Granola
Serving up healthy granola can transform even the simplest meals into something truly special, adding not just texture but also a delightful depth of flavour. Here are some inspired ways to enjoy granola that might just elevate your culinary experiences:
- Toast:I have been known to caramelize bananas, figs, and peaches and slather my toasted bread with nut or seed butter. A sprinkle of granola on the top is just perfection after all that…chefs kiss!
- Oatmeal:I never find my oats are complete without it. It adds a little crunch and sweetness without adding sugar to bland oats!
- Yogurt:Need I say more? Granola and yogurt are a match made in heaven. The creamy texture of yogurt paired with the crunch of granola creates the perfect balance in every bite. It’s a pairing that’s as perfect for a quick breakfast as it is for a mid-afternoon snack or a light dessert.
- Ice Cream:I love the crunch. For a truly indulgent treat, sprinkle granola over your favourite ice cream. The contrast between the creamy ice cream and the crunchy granola adds an irresistible dimension to each spoonful.
- Smoothies:12 years ago when I first started making smoothies I would sprinkle my granola on top because I love the different textures of things. It also made my smoothie more filling.
- Pancakes and Waffles:There’s something about the soft, fluffy texture of pancakes and waffles that calls out for a crunchy counterpart. Topping them with granola, along with fruits and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, turns an ordinary breakfast into a feast for the senses.
Making Granola the Perfect Gift
Last Christmas I suggested you make my granola as a gift and I am so pleased that so many of you did. My granola has been made on several different continents and gifted for all sorts of occasions. I love buying small half-litre mason jars and gifting them for any occasion. It makes a great hostess gift or even makes great bridal shower presents too!
Watch How to Make Healthy Granola
If you love granola, consider sharing this blog with someone else who loves granola! Inside there is an easy granola recipe for yogurt, a healthy granola recipe (no sugar) and so much more. If you’re craving another style of granola recipes; check out my baked oats recipes where you can put your granola to work!
- Banana Baked Oats
- Chocolate Baked Oats
- Carrot Cake Baked Oats
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