Healthy Granola

Crispy and nutrient-rich homemade healthy granola made with oats, nuts, seeds, and coconut, lightly sweetened with honey for natural flavor. This easy granola recipe bakes into golden clusters that are perfect for breakfast with yogurt, smoothie bowls, or as a crunchy snack. Simple to prepare, customizable with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, and great for meal prep or gifting.

Ingredients

Dry Mix

• 4 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (405 g)
• 1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds (70 g)
• 1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut (80 g)
• 1 cup sliced raw almonds (95 g)
• 1/3 cup raw brown sesame seeds or flax seeds (45 g)

Syrup

• 1/3 cup butter or coconut oil (75 g)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar (70 g)
• 1/3 cup honey (113 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 g)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (7.5 ml)
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda (3.5 g)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine oats, sunflower seeds, coconut, almonds, and sesame seeds. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Make the Syrup

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter (or coconut oil). Add brown sugar, honey, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and baking soda.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the hot syrup over the oat mixture. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly coated.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven, stir, and press it back down firmly with a spatula. Return to the oven and bake an additional 8–12 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 6: Press and Cool

Remove from the oven and use the back of a spatula to press the granola down firmly into the pan. Allow it to cool completely before breaking into clusters.

---

Tips

• Pressing the granola while hot helps create large, crunchy clusters.
• Allow it to cool fully before stirring to keep clusters intact.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
• For extra crispiness, bake a little longer, but keep an eye to prevent burning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Seeds: Swap sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds or chia seeds.
• Sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Nuts: Use pecans, cashews, or walnuts instead of almonds.
• Flavor Boost: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder to the syrup.
• Mix-ins: Stir in dried fruit or dark chocolate chips after baking.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.

How do I keep the granola crunchy?
Store it in an airtight container away from moisture.

Can I cut down on sugar?
Yes, reduce the sugar slightly or use unsweetened coconut and less honey.

Does it freeze well?
Granola can be frozen for up to 3 months in a sealed bag or container.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle over yogurt with fresh fruit.
• Use as a topping for smoothie bowls.
• Serve with milk as a healthy breakfast cereal.
• Pack into jars or bags for a quick snack or gift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade granola is crunchy, naturally sweetened, and packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and far fresher than store-bought versions. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting, this recipe delivers nutritious clusters full of flavor.