Introduction:
Crunchy, sweet, and packed with flavor, these Coconut Granola Clusters are a delicious and versatile snack! Perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a topping for yogurt, this granola is easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients. With the rich flavor of coconut and the crunch of oats and nuts, it’s sure to become a staple in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep time.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
- Healthy Snack: Full of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a cereal, snack, or topping for other dishes.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or other nuts)
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or other seeds)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional, e.g., raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, sliced almonds, and sunflower seeds. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil. Stir until melted and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Combine and Coat:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread and Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruit:
- Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will harden into clusters. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit if using.
- Store:
- Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Tips for Success:
- Cluster Formation: Pressing the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet helps to create larger clusters.
- Even Baking: Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Cooling: Allowing the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet will help it form clusters and stay crunchy.
Recipe Variations:
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts and add extra seeds or coconut for crunch.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra flavor.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Use agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or date syrup as alternatives to honey or maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy the granola as a cereal with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Top your yogurt with granola for added texture and flavor.
- Sprinkle over fruit salads or smoothie bowls for a crunchy boost.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Freezing: Granola can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Special Equipment:
- Large Bowl: For mixing the granola ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: For baking the granola.
FAQ:
- Can I use sweetened coconut?
Yes, but adjust the amount of added sweetener to avoid making the granola too sweet. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats are preferred for their texture and cluster formation, but quick oats can be used if that’s all you have. - Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can stir in a scoop of protein powder into the wet mixture before combining it with the dry ingredients for an extra protein boost.
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes for mixing and prepping.
Cook Time:
- 20-25 minutes for baking.
Total Time:
- 35 minutes (including prep and bake time).
Nutrition Information (per 1/4 cup serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 13g
Coconut Granola Clusters Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or other nuts)
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or other seeds)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional, e.g., raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, sliced almonds, and sunflower seeds. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil. Stir until melted and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Combine and Coat:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread and Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruit:
- Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will harden into clusters. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit if using.
- Store:
- Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried making these Coconut Granola Clusters? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your homemade granola and check back for more delicious and easy recipes.
