Description
This Nut Free Granola recipe offers a crunchy, flavorful breakfast or snack option free from nuts, making it perfect for those with nut allergies. Packed with wholesome rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit, this granola is lightly sweetened with honey or maple syrup and enhanced with warm cinnamon and vanilla. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy and delicious way to start your day or enjoy as a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare the granola mixture. This ensures an even bake later on.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, cinnamon, and salt, stirring well to evenly distribute all elements.
- Melt Wet Ingredients: Place honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until both ingredients are fully melted and combined into a smooth liquid.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the wet mixture with a fragrant sweetness.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the melted wet ingredients over the dry bowl mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat all the dry ingredients uniformly, ensuring sticky clusters will form when baked.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: evenly spread the granola mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and even roasting.
- Bake Granola: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through the baking time to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Cool and Store: Remove the granola from the oven once golden brown. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet; this helps it crisp up. Once cool, store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add more seeds or toasted coconut flakes.
- Use maple syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Be sure to stir the granola halfway through baking to prevent uneven cooking.
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- You can customize dried fruits according to your preference or seasonal availability.
