This homemade coconut almond granola is crunchy and sweet, perfect for breakfast or snacking! Made with oats, toasted almonds, and shredded coconut, it’s a tasty treat.
Making granola is so satisfying, and guess what? The smell of it baking fills your home with a cozy vibe. I love adding it to yogurt or just eating it by the handful—delish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Using old-fashioned rolled oats gives the granola its chewy texture. Instant oats can get mushy, so avoid them. If you’re gluten-sensitive, make sure to use gluten-free oats!
Almonds: Whole almonds add crunch. You can use sliced or slivered almonds if you prefer smaller pieces. For a different flavor, try walnuts or pecans!
Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened coconut helps keep it healthy. If you like it sweeter, use sweetened shredded coconut. You can also replace it with other nut butters for varied flavors.
Sweetener: Honey lends a nice taste, while maple syrup is a great vegan option. You can adjust the quantity to make it sweeter or less sweet, based on your taste.
Coconut Oil: This oil gives a delicious coconut flavor. You can swap it for a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil if needed, but you’ll lose that coconut touch.
Why is Stirring Important When Baking Granola?
Stirring the granola halfway through baking is a simple trick for even toasting. It ensures that every piece gets golden and crunchy. Don’t rush this step! Here’s how to do it:
- After about 10-12 minutes of baking, open the oven and give the granola a gentle stir with a spatula.
- This will help to redistribute the granola, so the parts on the bottom have a chance to toast too.
- Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to prevent burning; each oven is a little different!
Following these tips will help you achieve the best homemade granola that’s crispy and delicious every time!
Homemade Coconut Almond Granola
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Granola Base:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup whole almonds (raw or lightly toasted)
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (preferably flakes or chips)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Spices:
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious granola will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake. Afterward, be sure to let it cool for a bit, which will take about 30 minutes. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to enjoy your homemade coconut almond granola, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to keep the granola from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole almonds, unsweetened shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together so it’s evenly mixed and ready to go!
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined for that perfect blend of flavors.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until all the oats, nuts, and coconut are evenly coated with the sweet goodness.
5. Spread and Bake:
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to stir it halfway through to achieve that golden texture. Keep an eye on it in those last few minutes to avoid burning!
6. Cool and Store:
Once the granola is golden and fragrant, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will get crispier as it cools. After it’s cooled down, break it into lovely clusters and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
7. Enjoy:
Your homemade coconut almond granola is ready! Enjoy it with milk, yogurt, or just grab a handful for a quick snack!
Happy munching, and enjoy your crunchy, flavorful homemade coconut almond granola!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. Quick oats can become mushy during baking, while rolled oats will give you that nice chewy texture and crunch!
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. However, using coconut oil enhances the coconut flavor, so be aware that substitutions may change the taste slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Granola?
To keep your granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay good for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it for up to three months—just let it thaw on the counter before serving!
Is It Possible to Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter treat. Just remember that if you add more ingredients, you might need to adjust the wet mixture slightly for balanced moisture.