Name: Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; ½ cup raw almonds; ½ cup raw pecan; ½ cup coconut; ¼ cup maple syrup; ¼ cup coconut oil; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 1½ cups dried cranberries; 1 cup white chocolate chips

This delightful cranberry white chocolate granola recipe combines crunchy oats, almonds, pecans, and coconut with the sweetness of maple syrup, dried cranberries, and white chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, it's a deliciously satisfying treat.

Photos of Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. Coconut oil, for instance, is often found in the health food section or baking aisle of supermarkets. Additionally, raw almonds and raw pecans can usually be found in the nuts or bulk food sections, while dried cranberries and white chocolate chips are typically located in the baking aisle.

Ingredients For Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Old-fashioned oats: Provides the base for the granola, offering a hearty and chewy texture.

Raw almonds: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the mix.

Raw pecans: Contributes a buttery richness to the granola.

Coconut: Adds a tropical sweetness and slight chewiness.

Maple syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind the ingredients together.

Coconut oil: Provides a subtle coconut flavor and helps the granola crisp up.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and flavor complexity.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Dried cranberries: Offers a tart and sweet contrast to the granola.

White chocolate chips: Adds a creamy, sweet element to the mix.

One reader, Barnie Harlow says:

This cranberry white chocolate granola recipe is fantastic! The combination of crunchy oats, nuts, and sweet white chocolate with tart cranberries is perfect. It's easy to make and tastes amazing. My family loves it as a snack or breakfast topping. Highly recommend!

Barnie Harlow

Techniques Required for Making Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe

How to melt coconut oil: Melt the coconut oil by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, or until fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt it in a small saucepan over low heat on the stove.

How to whisk ingredients: Use a whisk to combine the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

How to stir granola: When baking the granola, pull it out at the halfway point and use a spatula to stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even baking.

How to cool granola: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet until it reaches room temperature before adding the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.

How To Make Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

This granola recipe is a delicious treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s loaded with cranberry, nuts, natural sweeteners, and white chocolates!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsold-fashioned oats
½cupraw almonds,whole
½cupraw pecan,halves
½cupcoconut,shredded or shaved
¼cupmaple syrup
¼cupcoconut oil,melted
½tspground cinnamon
¼tspvanilla extract,store-bought or homemade
½tspsalt
1½cupsdried cranberries
1cupwhite chocolate chips

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
Combine the oats, almonds, pecans, and coconut in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt together until smooth. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the oats mixture, and toss until everything is evenly mixed.
Spread the granola mixture out evenly on a greased baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, pulling the mixture out at the halfway point and giving it a good stir before the final round of baking.
Remove and let cool until the granola reaches room temperature. Stir in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips and toss to combine.
Serve immediately, or store in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 456.04kcal
Fat: 25.92g
Saturated Fat: 12.47g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.41g
Carbohydrates: 55.23g
Fiber: 5.47g
Sugar: 34.51g
Protein: 6.64g
Cholesterol: 4.46mg
Sodium: 168.05mg
Calcium: 94.81mg
Potassium: 271.94mg
Iron: 1.74mg
Vitamin A: 2.12µg
Vitamin C: 0.39mg

Helpful Technique Tips for Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe

To enhance the flavor and texture of your granola, consider toasting the coconut flakes separately before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will give them a deeper, nuttier flavor and a satisfying crunch. Simply spread the coconut flakes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Save time by purchasing pre-chopped almonds and pecans instead of chopping them yourself.

Melt coconut oil in microwave: Quickly melt the coconut oil in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Line baking sheet with parchment: Use parchment paper to avoid cleaning the baking sheet afterward.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store extra granola for future use.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe

old-fashioned oats - Substitute with quick oats: Quick oats can be used for a similar texture, though they may cook faster and be slightly softer.
raw almonds - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutritional profile.
raw pecans - Substitute with hazelnuts: Hazelnuts offer a comparable texture and a slightly different but complementary flavor.
coconut - Substitute with dried apricots: Dried apricots add a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a similar sweetness and sticky texture.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for its healthy fats, though it has a different flavor profile.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a similar salty taste.
dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries offer a similar tartness and chewy texture.
white chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a richer flavor and are less sweet.

Presentation Ideas for Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Use a stylish bowl: Choose a sleek, modern bowl to serve the granola. The bowl should complement the colors of the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Layer the granola: Create layers of granola and dried cranberries in the bowl. This adds visual interest and ensures that each bite has a mix of flavors.
Garnish with fresh fruit: Add a few fresh cranberries or slices of strawberries on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh element to the dish.
Drizzle with white chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it artfully over the top of the granola. This adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Add a mint sprig: Place a small sprig of mint on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It also adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Serve with a side of yogurt: Present a small dish of Greek yogurt on the side. This allows diners to customize their granola experience and adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy texture.
Use a decorative spoon: Provide a beautiful, ornate spoon for serving. This small detail can elevate the entire dining experience and make it feel more luxurious.

Essential Tools for Making Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Oven: Used to bake the granola mixture to achieve a crispy texture.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread out the granola mixture evenly for baking.
Cooking spray: Prevents the granola from sticking to the baking sheet.
Parchment paper: An alternative to cooking spray, it also prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the oats, almonds, pecans, and coconut.
Whisk: Helps to mix the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like oats, almonds, pecans, coconut, maple syrup, and coconut oil.
Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurement of smaller quantities like cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
Spatula: Used to toss the granola mixture and to stir it halfway through baking.
Sealed container: Keeps the granola fresh for up to 2 weeks after it has cooled and the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips have been added.

Storing and Freezing Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Once the granola has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help maintain its crunchiness and freshness. The granola can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
If you want to keep the granola fresh for longer, consider storing it in the refrigerator. Place the airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 1 month.
For even longer storage, you can freeze the cranberry white chocolate granola. Transfer the cooled granola to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen granola, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. You can also warm it up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crunchiness.
If you find that the granola has lost some of its crispness after storing, you can easily refresh it by spreading it out on a baking sheet and baking it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until it's crispy again.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, always make sure the granola is completely cool before storing it in any container. This will prevent moisture from accumulating, which can lead to soggy granola.

Interesting Facts About Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

A fun fact about this granola recipe is that the combination of cranberries and white chocolate chips not only adds a delightful sweetness but also provides a balance of antioxidants and indulgence, making it a tasty yet somewhat nutritious treat.

Is Making Cranberry White Chocolate Granola at Home Cost-Effective?

This cranberry white chocolate granola recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of old-fashioned oats, raw almonds, and pecans can be pricey, but they are balanced by the relatively affordable maple syrup and coconut oil. The dried cranberries and white chocolate chips add a touch of luxury. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe Healthy?

This cranberry white chocolate granola recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:

Healthy ingredients:

Oats: Rich in fiber, protein, and nutrients
Almonds and pecans: Provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals
Coconut: Contains healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)
Maple syrup: A natural sweetener with some minerals and antioxidants
Cinnamon: Has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar

Unhealthy ingredients:

White chocolate chips: High in sugar and fat, with minimal nutritional value
Dried cranberries: Often contain added sugar

While this granola contains several nutritious ingredients, the addition of white chocolate chips and potentially sugary dried cranberries makes it less healthy overall. The coconut oil, although containing MCTs, is still high in saturated fat and should be consumed in moderation.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa) for added antioxidants and less sugar
Use unsweetened dried cranberries or fresh cranberries to reduce sugar content
Reduce the amount of maple syrup and replace some of it with unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness
Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense ingredients like chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or ground flaxseed
Use a mix of coconut oil and a heart-healthy oil like olive oil to balance the saturated fat content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious granola that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, moderation is key, even with healthier treats!

Editor's Opinion on This Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe

This cranberry white chocolate granola recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of oats, nuts, and coconut provides a satisfying crunch, while the maple syrup and coconut oil add a subtle sweetness and richness. The dried cranberries introduce a tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy white chocolate chips. The use of cinnamon and vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a treat. This granola is perfect for a quick breakfast or a snack, and its versatility allows it to be enjoyed in various ways.

Enhance Your Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the creamy, velvety texture of butternut squash soup, perfectly seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm bowl of goodness will complement the sweet and crunchy cranberry white chocolate granola beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Grilled Chicken Salad: Grilled Chicken Salad: Picture a bed of fresh mixed greens, topped with juicy, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Drizzle with a light balsamic vinaigrette to add a tangy contrast to the sweet and crunchy granola. This salad is not just a side dish; it's a vibrant, healthy companion to your delightful granola.

Berry Parfait: Berry Parfait: Layers of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey create a parfait that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Top it off with a generous sprinkle of your cranberry white chocolate granola for a crunchy, sweet finish. This parfait is a perfect way to start your day or enjoy as a refreshing snack.

Avocado Toast: Avocado Toast: Imagine a slice of sourdough bread, toasted to perfection and generously spread with creamy avocado. Add a sprinkle of sea salt, a dash of red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The creamy, savory avocado toast pairs wonderfully with the sweet, crunchy granola, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries, dipped in rich, dark chocolate and chilled to perfection. These decadent treats offer a luxurious contrast to the cranberry white chocolate granola, making for an indulgent yet balanced dessert. The combination of fresh fruit and chocolate with the granola's crunch is simply irresistible.

Alternative Recipes to Cranberry White Chocolate Granola

Maple Pecan Granola: Dive into the delightful crunch of maple syrup and pecans with this granola recipe. Perfect for a morning boost or an afternoon snack, this granola combines the rich flavors of maple and nuts for a satisfying treat.

Coconut Almond Granola: Experience the tropical twist of coconut and almonds in this granola mix. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite.

Chocolate Hazelnut Granola: Indulge in the decadent blend of chocolate and hazelnuts with this granola recipe. Perfect for those who love a touch of sweetness in their breakfast or snack, this granola is a treat for the senses.

Berry Nutty Granola: Savor the burst of berries and the crunch of nuts in this vibrant granola mix. Ideal for a nutritious start to your day or a wholesome snack, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds.

Pumpkin Spice Granola: Embrace the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice in this autumn-inspired granola. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, this granola is perfect for adding a seasonal touch to your breakfast.

Why trust this Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe:

This cranberry white chocolate granola recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast. The combination of old-fashioned oats, raw almonds, pecans, and coconut provides a satisfying crunch, while the maple syrup and coconut oil add a natural sweetness. The addition of dried cranberries and white chocolate chips offers a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is easy to follow and uses wholesome ingredients, ensuring a delicious and nutritious treat.

Share your thoughts on the Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

I wouldn't recommend it. Quick oats tend to get mushy and won't give you that nice, crunchy texture that old-fashioned oats do.

Can I substitute the coconut oil with another type of oil?

Absolutely! You can use any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil adds a subtle flavor that other oils might not.

How do I store the granola to keep it fresh?

Just pop it into an airtight container and store it at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Can I add other dried fruits or nuts to the mix?

Go for it! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. Just keep the overall quantities the same to ensure even baking.

Is there a way to make this granola less sweet?

Sure thing. You can reduce the amount of maple syrup or even swap it out for a less sweet alternative like honey or agave syrup. Just adjust to your taste!