Grain-Free Coconut Granola

Why You’ll Love Grain-Free Coconut Granola

This grain-free coconut granola has everything you crave in a granola recipe. It’s loaded with nuts, seeds, and coconut, providing a rich, crunchy texture that is both satisfying and nutritious. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

• Grain-Free: Perfect for anyone avoiding grains, oats, or gluten, this granola is a paleo-friendly alternative.

• Naturally Sweetened: Sweetened with pure maple syrup, there’s no need for refined sugars.

• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the nuts or seeds for your favorites.

• Simple Ingredients: With only a handful of basic ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious grain-free coconut granola:

• 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup sliced almonds

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds

• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own homemade grain-free coconut granola:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the granola doesn’t stick.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sliced almonds, chopped pecans, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir everything together so the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir to coat everything evenly. This will ensure the granola gets crispy as it bakes.

5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture evenly across the baking sheet. Press it down gently if you prefer larger clusters.

6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes of baking, as the coconut can brown quickly.

7. Cool and Break Into Clusters: Once the granola is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, the granola will firm up and form crunchy clusters.

8. Store: Once fully cooled, break the granola into pieces and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 8 servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 to 25 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Variations to Try

One of the best parts of making your own granola is the ability to customize it. Here are a few ideas to tweak the recipe to your liking:

• Add Dried Fruit: After baking, you can mix in dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for added sweetness.

• Chocolate Chips: For a dessert-style granola, stir in dark chocolate chips once the granola has cooled.

• Other Nuts: If you prefer cashews or hazelnuts over almonds or pecans, feel free to swap them in.

• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

• Protein Boost: To increase the protein content, consider mixing in collagen powder or protein powder.

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a month.

• Freezing: If you want to keep the granola for a longer period, freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it come to room temperature.

FAQ

Is this granola keto-friendly?

While this granola is grain-free and lower in carbs than traditional oat-based granola, it still contains maple syrup, so it might not be suitable for a strict keto diet.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as written.

How do I get bigger granola clusters?

To achieve larger clusters, press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. Avoid stirring too much during the baking process, and allow it to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Can I substitute the maple syrup?

Yes, if you’re not vegan, you can use honey as a substitute for the maple syrup. Other liquid sweeteners may work too but may slightly alter the flavor.

What can I serve this granola with?

This granola pairs well with yogurt, milk, or smoothie bowls. You can also enjoy it as a standalone snack.

Why did my granola burn?

Coconut can brown quickly, so it’s important to monitor the granola closely in the final stages of baking. Stirring halfway through baking helps prevent burning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this granola contains no gluten or grain-based ingredients.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, protein powder can be added to the dry ingredients. You might need to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to ensure the granola is still evenly coated.

How do I keep the granola crunchy?

Ensure that the granola cools completely before storing. Keep it in a sealed container to prevent moisture from softening it.

Conclusion

This grain-free coconut granola is a healthy, flavorful snack that can be customized to fit your tastes. Packed with nutritious nuts and seeds and sweetened naturally with maple syrup, it’s a great option for breakfast or a snack. Whether you enjoy it by the handful, as a topping for yogurt, or mixed into smoothie bowls, it’s a crunchy, satisfying choice for anyone looking to avoid grains and gluten.