Almond Maple Granola Clusters

$You need these simple items to make almond maple granola clusters: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup raw almonds, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) Each ingredient packs a punch of nutrition. - Rolled oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. They keep you full longer. - Almonds offer healthy fats and protein, boosting heart health. - Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and magnesium, supporting your immune system. - Coconut adds healthy fats and may help improve cholesterol levels. - Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with antioxidants, better than refined sugar. - Coconut oil can boost brain function and provide energy. - Vanilla extract adds flavor and may help reduce stress. - Cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. - Sea salt balances electrolytes, important for hydration. - Dried cranberries or raisins add natural sweetness and vitamins. Choosing good ingredients makes a big difference. - Look for rolled oats that are whole grain for more fiber. - Choose raw almonds over roasted for better health benefits. - For pumpkin seeds, buy unsalted and raw for pure nutrition. - Select unsweetened coconut to avoid added sugars. - Use pure maple syrup instead of imitation for better flavor and nutrients. - Make sure to buy virgin coconut oil for its health properties. - Always pick fresh spices like cinnamon, as they lose flavor over time. - If using dried fruit, look for unsweetened options to keep it healthy. These tips help you create tasty, healthy almond maple granola clusters. Enjoy making this delicious snack! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is key to getting the right crunch. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the granola off later. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, coarsely chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir well so everything is evenly combined. This helps each bite taste great. In another bowl, whisk the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract. Make sure there are no lumps. A smooth mixture blends better with the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix until every piece is coated. Next, spoon the mixture onto your baking sheet. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly. This helps form those tasty clusters. Bake the granola for 25-30 minutes. Stir it halfway through to prevent burning. Keep an eye on it so it gets golden brown but not too dark. Once it’s done, let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling helps it cluster together nicely. After cooling, you can mix in dried cranberries or raisins if you want a fruity touch. This step adds extra flavor and fun to your snack. To make great granola clusters, follow these steps: - Use fresh ingredients. Fresh oats and nuts add flavor. - Mix dry and wet well. Ensure all dry ingredients coat evenly with the wet mix. - Press firmly. When spreading on the baking sheet, press down to form tight clusters. - Watch the timer. Bake until golden brown, but don’t let it burn. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them: - Skipping the oil. Coconut oil helps bind and adds crispness. - Not stirring. Stir halfway through baking for even coloring. - Overbaking. Check often to prevent burning. Granola continues to cook after removing from the oven. For crunchy granola clusters, try these tips: - Use rolled oats. They create a better texture than quick oats. - Add seeds. Pumpkin seeds add crunch and nutrition. - Cool completely. Let the granola cool on the baking sheet to harden. - Store properly. Keep in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the nuts and seeds, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your granola. Customize Your Clusters: Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to your taste preferences. Just make sure the total volume remains consistent. Store Properly: Keep your granola clusters in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last for up to two weeks when stored correctly. Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your sweetness preference. You can also try adding a touch of honey or agave syrup for variety. {{image_4}} You can swap some ingredients in this recipe to fit your taste. If you don’t have almonds, use walnuts or pecans instead. For pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds work well too. Don't have coconut oil? Try olive oil or melted butter. If you need a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free oats. You can play with flavors to create your perfect granola. Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice. If you love chocolate, toss in some cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips. For a tropical twist, add dried pineapple or mango. The combinations are endless! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins. Consider adding chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition. You can also fold in some mini chocolate chips or nut butter after baking for a richer flavor. Don’t forget to mix in your favorite dried fruits too. To keep your almond maple granola clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars work well. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain crunchiness and flavor. When stored properly, your granola clusters can last up to two weeks. They may lose some crunch over time, but they will still taste great. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. In the freezer, they can last for about three months. If your granola clusters get soft, you can refresh them. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the clusters on a baking sheet. Bake for about five to ten minutes. This will help restore their crunch. Let them cool before enjoying again. Yes, you can make this recipe nut-free. Simply replace the almonds with more pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. This keeps the crunch while making it safe for those with nut allergies. To make this granola vegan, ensure you use only plant-based ingredients. The maple syrup and coconut oil are already vegan. Just skip any optional honey or dairy ingredients. This way, you get a tasty vegan snack! You can enjoy these granola clusters with yogurt, milk, or even as a topping for smoothie bowls. They also taste great on their own as a snack. Feel free to get creative! Yes, you can use other sweeteners. Honey or agave syrup are good swaps. Just remember that the flavor may change a bit. Each sweetener adds its unique taste to the granola. Homemade granola is often healthier. You control the ingredients, so you can avoid added sugars and preservatives. Plus, you can add ingredients that suit your taste and dietary needs. Making granola at home is a great way to eat better! In summary, we explored the key ingredients for granola clusters and their health benefits. You learned how to select quality ingredients and followed detailed steps to create delicious clusters. I shared tips to perfect your granola, avoid common mistakes, and customize flavors to your liking. Remember, proper storage keeps your granola fresh longer. Homemade granola offers healthier options compared to store-bought. Enjoy making your granola clusters and sharing them with friends and family!$

Almond Maple Granola Clusters

A delicious and healthy granola recipe featuring almonds and maple syrup, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup raw almonds, coarsely chopped
0.5 cup pumpkin seeds
0.5 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
0.5 cup pure maple syrup
0.25 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.25 teaspoon sea salt
0.5 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the granola after baking.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, coarsely chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir the dry ingredients together thoroughly so that everything is evenly distributed.
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, and use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together carefully, ensuring each component is well-coated and combined.
Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into a uniform layer. Press down firmly with the back of a spatula to form compact clusters, which will enhance the texture after baking.
Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Be sure to stir the granola halfway through the baking period to ensure even coloring. Keep a close watch as it bakes to prevent it from burning.
After baking, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling process aids in clustering together.
Once cooled, feel free to fold in the dried cranberries or raisins if you like a fruity addition.
When the granola is fully cooled, break it into desired cluster sizes and transfer it to an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Notes

Serve in a mason jar or clear bowl. Great with yogurt or milk.

Keyword breakfast, granola, healthy, snack