Introducing the ultimate healthy granola recipe! It’s sweet, salty, chunky, nutty, and made without refined sugars. This gluten-free and dairy-free homemade granola is perfect for meal prep, breakfast, yogurt bowls, or snacking anytime!
The easiest healthy granola recipe
Introducing the easiest healthy granola recipe you’ll ever need! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a delicious batch of homemade granola in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when you need a nutritious snack.
To make this granola, mix together rolled oats, your favorite nuts, a touch of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, pure maple syrup, coconut oil, and a splash of vanilla extract. These basic ingredients create a flavorful and satisfying blend that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Once mixed, spread the granola evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake until golden brown and crispy. The aroma of toasted oats and nuts will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s even done baking!
Once cooled, break the granola into clusters and store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy it as a topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls, paired with milk as a cereal, or simply as a satisfying snack straight out of the jar. With its irresistible crunch and wholesome ingredients, this easy, healthy granola recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. I can’t wait to hear what you think!
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Quick & Easy: This healthy granola recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor: Nutty, sweet, and satisfying taste.
- Healthier Choice: Wholesome, low in sugars, and no refined sugar.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts and fruits.
- Chunky Texture: The granola has so many crunchy clusters.
- Cost-Effective: Budget-friendly homemade option.
- Long Shelf Life: Stays fresh for weeks.
- Kid-Friendly: Loved by children and picky eaters.
- No Refined Sugars: Sweetened naturally with maple syrup.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan: Fits everyone’s diets.
- Try this healthy peanut butter granola next!
Ingredients needed
You only need seven simple ingredients to make this healthy granola recipe! It’s easy to bake, healthy, low in sugar, and perfect for meal prepping. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:
- Rolled Oats: Rich in fiber and provide long-lasting energy.
- Nuts: These are packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium, promoting heart health and satiety. You can choose from almonds, pecans, peanuts, or walnuts!
- Cinnamon: For the best flavor!
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that makes this healthy granola 100% refined sugar-free.
- Coconut Oil: Adds healthy fats and helps create crispy clusters.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor!
Kitchen tools needed
Here is a quick list of all the kitchen tools you’ll need to make this easy and healthy granola recipe.
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Oven
How to make chunky, healthy granola
This healthy granola recipe is chunky, crispy, and so easy to make. It’s vegan, gluten-free, healthy, and refined-sugar-free. Here are detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so any level baker can make this recipe:
Step 1:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Combine the oats, nuts, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3:
Pour in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until every oat and nut is lightly coated.
Step 4:
Once thoroughly combined, press the mixture onto the lined parchment paper, spreading it into a flat layer.
Step 5:
Bake for 20 – 24 minutes, stirring halfway through. The granola will crisp further as it cools.
Step 6:
Allow it to cool completely for at least 45 minutes before breaking it apart. Add any extra mix-ins you want after it cools (list below and in recipe card), and then store the granola in an airtight (dry) container on the counter for 1-2 weeks.
Enjoy your healthy granola!
Expert recipe tips:
- Spread Tip: Evenly spread and press the granola mixture on the baking sheet for consistent baking and a crispy texture.
- Stirring Halfway: Gently stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and prevent clumps.
- Add-ins AFTER Baking: Mix in dried fruits or chocolate chips after cooling to prevent burning. or melting.
- Do Not Touch Until Completely Cool: Let the granola cool fully on the baking sheet before breaking it apart for crunchiness.
- Storage Tip: Keep cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
- Customization: You can customize your granola with nuts, seeds, spices, or sweeteners.
Easy ingredient substitutions:
Here are some easy ingredient substitutions for this healthy granola recipe. I recommend swapping only one or two ingredients so the entire recipe stays the same.
- Sweeteners: For a different flavor profile, you can use honey, agave syrup, or brown rice syrup instead of maple syrup.
- Oil: If you prefer or have dietary restrictions, replace coconut oil with olive oil, melted butter, or avocado oil.
- Nuts: Swap out the nuts with seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds for a nut-free option or variety.
- Spices: For a unique flavor twist, experiment with different spices, such as pumpkin pie spice, gingerbread spice, or even cocoa powder.
- Vanilla Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract or omit it altogether for a different flavor profile.
- Mix-Ins: After the granola is completely cooled, you can add dried fruits such as dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries for a burst of sweetness and chewiness.
Healthy granola variations:
Granola is SO customizable. Here are some variations ideas for this recipe:
- Fruit and Nut: Add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots (AFTER COOLING), along with a mix of nuts such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios for a colorful and nutritious blend.
- Seed Power: Incorporate seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds for added crunch and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Coconut Craze: Mix in shredded coconut or coconut flakes for a tropical twist and extra flavor.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile of your granola.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in dark chocolate chips or chunks after baking for a decadent yet healthy treat.
- Protein Boost: Add protein-rich ingredients such as hemp seeds, protein powder, or chopped protein bars to fuel your day.
- Trail Mix Fusion: Combine granola with your favorite trail mix ingredients, such as dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and even a touch of dark chocolate, for a satisfying on-the-go snack.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon to the granola mixture before baking.
- Apple Pie: Try this delicious apple pie granola, such a hit in our household!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While you can technically use instant oats, they may result in a different texture. Old-fashioned rolled oats tend to give a heartier texture to the granola.
Is there a substitute for coconut oil?
Yes, you can use other healthy oils, like olive oil or melted butter, as a substitute for coconut oil. However, this may alter the flavor slightly.
I’m allergic to nuts. Can I omit them or substitute them with something else?
Yes, you can omit the nuts or substitute them with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
How do I prevent the granola from burning in the oven?
Make sure to stir the granola halfway through baking and rotate the baking sheet if necessary to ensure even cooking. Also, I highly recommend placing the granola on a middle rack in the oven, not the top or bottom, for optimal heat distribution. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning!
Can I add dried fruit to the granola?
Yes, you can add dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots after the granola has finished baking and cooled. Adding them earlier may cause them to become too hard or chewy.
Is this granola gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free oats, then yes, this granola recipe can be gluten-free. However, if you have celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, make sure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I enjoy this granola?
Mix it with fresh fruits like berries, bananas, Greek yogurt, or oatmeal. Add a bit of nut butter or honey for extra flavor. You can also have it with milk, like cereal. These combos give you more nutrients and taste without too much sugar.
Can you freeze granola?
Yes, you can freeze granola! Just let it cool (completely), put it in an airtight container or bag, and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 to 6 months. Labeling with the date helps keep track of freshness. Thaw frozen granola at room temperature for a few minutes or heat it gently for a crispy texture.
How should I store granola to keep it fresh?
Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
If you love this granola recipe, try these recipes next!
- Healthy Peanut Butter Granola
- Air Fryer Granola
- Apple Pie Granola
- Frozen Yogurt Granola Bars
- Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don’t forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
Best Healthy Granola Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts, I like doing ½ cup almond or pecans and ½ cup walnuts
- ½ – ¾ tsp cinnamon, depending on your taste preference
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until every oat and nut is lightly coated.
- Once fully combined, press the mixture onto the lined parchment paper, spreading it into a flat layer.
- Bake for 20 – 24 minutes, stirring halfway through. The granola will crisp further as it cools.
- Allow it to cool completely for at least 45 minutes before breaking it apart.
- Store the granola in an airtight container on the counter for 1-2 weeks. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Alexis says
Made with almonds and was a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and so good on smoothie bowls! Highly recommend!!
Tati Chermayeff says
Thrilled to hear this, Alexis! Thank you for such an amazing review.
Camila Jenning says
This is the third time I have made this recipe now. It is just the best!!!!
Tati Chermayeff says
Camila, so thrilled to hear this!! I am totally obsessed too.
Gabrielle Campano says
Best homemade granola recipe !! I love keeping a batch in my freezer and having it as a quick snack throughout the week with some berries and almond milk! Tastes way better than any other store bought granola I’ve tried. I swear I’ll never buy granola again after trying this recipe!
Julia says
Better than my favorite store-bought granola, and so many better-for-you ingredients! Love, love, love – the perfect addition to my yogurt!
Angela says
This is my new go to recipe! My daughter’s friends offered me their paychecks to make them some! Great granola for parfaits! Thanks for sharing
Hadley says
So good!!!!