Name: Grain-Free Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups raw almonds; 1½ cups unsweetened coconut; 1 cup pecans; 1 cup Brazil nuts; 1 cup sunflower seeds; 1 tsp Cinnamon; pinch sea salt; ¼ cup coconut oil; ¼ cup raw honey; 3 tbsp water; 1½ tsp pure almond extract; 1 cup dried apricots; ½ cup dried cherries

This grain-free granola recipe is a delightful and nutritious way to start your day or enjoy as a snack. Packed with a variety of nuts and seeds, and sweetened naturally with honey and dried fruits, it offers a perfect crunch and a touch of sweetness without any grains.

Photos of Grain-Free Granola Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Brazil nuts and raw honey are not as commonly stocked in pantries, so you may need to visit a supermarket or a health food store to find them. Ensure you’re getting unsweetened coconut flakes and pure almond extract for the best flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients For Grain-Free Granola

raw almonds: These provide a crunchy texture and are rich in healthy fats and protein.

unsweetened coconut: Adds a natural sweetness and chewy texture without added sugars.

pecans: Offer a buttery flavor and essential nutrients like fiber and healthy fats.

brazil nuts: Contain selenium and add a unique taste and crunch.

sunflower seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals, and add a slight nutty flavor.

cinnamon: Enhances the taste with a warm, sweet-spicy flavor.

sea salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

coconut oil: Binds the granola together and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

raw honey: Natural sweetener that helps to bind the ingredients and add a touch of sweetness.

water: Helps to mix the wet ingredients smoothly.

pure almond extract: Adds a rich, nutty flavor enhancing the overall taste.

dried apricots: Provide natural sweetness and chewy texture.

dried cherries: Add tartness and a chewy texture complementing the other ingredients.

One reader, Fiona Yost says:

This grain-free granola recipe is fantastic! The combination of nuts and dried fruits creates a deliciously crunchy and sweet treat. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast. Highly recommend!

Fiona Yost

Techniques Required for Making Grain-Free Granola

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing any food inside. How to line a baking sheet with parchment paper: Place a sheet of parchment paper on the baking sheet, ensuring it covers the entire surface to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. How to combine ingredients in a bowl: Add the specified ingredients to a large bowl and mix them together until evenly distributed. How to whisk wet ingredients: Use a whisk to blend the oil, honey, water, and almond extract until they are fully combined and smooth. How to toss ingredients to coat: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and use a spoon or spatula to mix until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated. How to spread granola on a baking sheet: Evenly distribute the granola mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even baking. How to stir halfway through baking: About halfway through the baking time, use a spatula to stir the granola to promote even browning. How to cool granola: Allow the baked granola to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to cool and crisp up before serving.

How To Make Grain-Free Granola

Stay awake in the afternoon with a bar of this delicious granola recipe! It’s loaded with crunchy nuts and sweet fruits for a filling treat.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Cool Time: 15 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupsraw almonds,chopped
1½cupsunsweetened coconut,shredded
1cuppecans,raw, chopped
1cupBrazil nuts,raw, chopped
1cupsunflower seeds,shelled, raw
1tspcinnamon,ground
pinchsea salt
¼cupcoconut oil,melted
¼cupraw honey,or pure maple syrup
3tbspwater
1½tsppure almond extract
1cupdried apricots,chopped
½cupdried cherries,chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the almonds, coconut, pecans, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, water, and almond extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the nut mixture and toss to coat.
Spread the granola on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
Remove the granola from the oven, then stir in the dried apricots and cherries.
Set aside to cool for 15 minutes.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 655.54kcal
Fat: 53.67g
Saturated Fat: 19.75g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.63g
Carbohydrates: 41.68g
Fiber: 10.51g
Sugar: 27.57g
Protein: 12.20g
Sodium: 297.23mg
Calcium: 133.08mg
Potassium: 715.02mg
Iron: 3.12mg
Vitamin A: 43.94µg
Vitamin C: 2.73mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Grain-Free Granola

To ensure even baking and prevent burning, make sure to stir the granola mixture halfway through the baking time. This helps distribute the heat evenly and allows the nuts and seeds to toast uniformly, resulting in a perfectly golden brown and crunchy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Grain-Free Granola Recipe

Pre-chop the nuts: Chop the almonds, pecans, and brazil nuts in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Use pre-shredded coconut: Buy unsweetened coconut that is already shredded to save time.

Melt the coconut oil: Melt the coconut oil in the microwave for easier mixing with the honey and almond extract.

Batch bake: Double the recipe and bake in two rimmed baking sheets to have extra granola for later.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you gather and prepare your ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Grain-Free Granola Recipe

raw almonds - Substitute with raw cashews: Cashews provide a similar crunch and mild flavor, making them a good alternative.
unsweetened coconut - Substitute with unsweetened coconut flakes: Coconut flakes offer the same coconut flavor and texture.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and slightly earthy flavor that complements the granola.
brazil nuts - Substitute with macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts have a rich, buttery flavor that works well in granola.
sunflower seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds provide a similar crunch and nutritional profile.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that can replace cinnamon.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt provides a similar mineral content and flavor.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for its healthy fats and mild flavor.
raw honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness and similar consistency.
water - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk adds a slight nutty flavor and additional nutrients.
pure almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
dried apricots - Substitute with dried mango: Dried mango offers a similar chewy texture and natural sweetness.
dried cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tart flavor and chewy texture similar to dried cherries.

Best Way to Present Grain-Free Granola

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the grain-free granola in elegant, small bowls or on a stylish plate, ensuring each portion is a delicate, refined amount.
Use decoration: Garnish with a few whole almonds and pecans on top, and add a sprinkle of unsweetened coconut flakes for a touch of sophistication.
Add color contrast: Incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries around the granola to add vibrant color and a fresh element.
Texture variety: Include a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of coconut cream on the side to enhance the texture contrast.
Elegant serving ware: Use high-quality, minimalist serving ware to let the granola shine. Opt for white or neutral-colored plates to highlight the natural colors of the ingredients.
Layering technique: Create layers with the granola, yogurt, and fresh fruit in a clear glass to showcase the different textures and colors.
Finishing touch: Add a light drizzle of raw honey over the top just before serving to give a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness.
Serve with a side: Pair the granola with a small glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a shot of espresso to complement the flavors and provide a complete experience.

Essential Tools for Making Grain-Free Granola

Oven: Used to bake the granola at a consistent temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rimmed baking sheet: Ensures the granola stays contained while baking and allows for even heat distribution.
Parchment paper: Prevents the granola from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
Large bowl: Used to mix together the almonds, coconut, pecans, brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
Small bowl: Used to whisk together the coconut oil, honey, water, and almond extract.
Whisk: Helps to thoroughly combine the wet ingredients.
Spatula: Used to toss the nut mixture with the wet ingredients and to stir the granola halfway through baking.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of all the ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like cinnamon, salt, and almond extract.
Knife: Used to chop the dried apricots and cherries if they are not pre-chopped.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the dried fruits.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Grain-Free Granola

Once the granola has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This will help maintain its crunchiness and prevent it from absorbing any moisture or odors from the environment.
If you want to keep the granola fresh for longer, consider storing it in the refrigerator. Place the cooled granola in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 month. This is especially useful if you live in a humid climate, as the refrigerator will help prevent the granola from becoming soggy.
For even longer storage, you can freeze the grain-free granola. Once it has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and store 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 about 30 minutes. If you prefer, you can also reheat the granola 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 crunchiness after storing, you can easily refresh it by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until it's crisp again. Let it cool completely before storing it once more.

Random Fact About Grain-Free Granola

A random fact about this grain-free granola recipe is that it uses coconut oil and raw honey as natural sweeteners and binders, making it a healthier alternative to traditional granola recipes that often contain refined sugars and oils.

Is Making Grain-Free Granola at Home Economical?

This grain-free granola recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of raw almonds, pecans, and brazil nuts can be pricey, but they provide a nutrient-dense, filling option. The dried apricots and dried cherries add a touch of sweetness without refined sugars. Overall, the recipe scores a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD, considering the bulk purchase of nuts and dried fruits.

Is This Granola Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grain-free granola recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional granola, as it is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. The recipe includes a variety of nuts and seeds, such as almonds, pecans, brazil nuts, and sunflower seeds, which are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. The use of coconut oil and raw honey as sweeteners is a better choice compared to refined sugars. Additionally, the dried fruits provide natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins and minerals.

However, there are a few aspects of this recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of honey to lower the overall sugar content
Use unsweetened dried fruits to further minimize added sugars
Include a variety of seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or chia seeds, for added nutrients and texture
Add a pinch of vanilla extract or cardamom for extra flavor without increasing calorie content
Experiment with using egg whites as a binder to create clusters and reduce the amount of oil needed

To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:

Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to boost the protein content
Sprinkle in some ground flaxseed or hemp seeds for an extra dose of omega-3 fatty acids
Mix in a handful of goji berries or mulberries for an antioxidant boost
Serve the granola with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a well-rounded breakfast or snack

Editor's Thoughts on This Grain-Free Granola Recipe

This grain-free granola recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of almonds, pecans, and brazil nuts provides a satisfying crunch, while the unsweetened coconut and sunflower seeds add a subtle sweetness. The use of coconut oil and raw honey ensures a natural, wholesome sweetness without refined sugars. The addition of dried apricots and cherries introduces a pleasant chewiness and a burst of fruity flavor. Overall, this recipe is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional granola, perfect for those seeking a grain-free option.

Enhance Your Grain-Free Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety soup that dances on your palate with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm, comforting bowl pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of your grain-free granola, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Grilled Chicken Salad: Grilled Chicken Salad: Picture a vibrant salad bursting with fresh greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and succulent slices of grilled chicken. The savory notes of the chicken complement the sweet and nutty crunch of the granola, making each bite a delightful experience.

Berry Parfait: Berry Parfait: Envision layers of creamy Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and a drizzle of honey. Top it off with a generous sprinkle of your homemade granola for a breakfast or dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious. The tartness of the berries and the sweetness of the granola create a perfect harmony.

Avocado Toast: Avocado Toast: Think of a slice of perfectly toasted sourdough bread, generously spread with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt. Add a handful of your grain-free granola on top for an unexpected crunch that elevates this classic dish to new heights.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Imagine luscious strawberries dipped in rich, dark chocolate and then rolled in your grain-free granola. This decadent treat combines the sweetness of the fruit, the bitterness of the chocolate, and the nutty crunch of the granola for a dessert that's simply irresistible.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Grain-Free Granola

Nut And Seed Bars: Looking for a portable snack? These nut and seed bars are packed with almonds, sunflower seeds, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Perfect for an on-the-go energy boost!

Paleo Trail Mix: Mix together a delightful blend of pecans, dried apricots, coconut flakes, and dark chocolate chunks. This trail mix is a perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.

Coconut Almond Energy Bites: These bite-sized treats combine coconut, almond butter, and a hint of cinnamon. Roll them into balls and refrigerate for a quick, satisfying snack.

Fruit And Nut Breakfast Bowl: Start your day with a bowl of yogurt topped with pecans, dried cherries, and a drizzle of honey. It's a refreshing and nutritious way to kick off your morning.

Maple Pecan Granola: Swap out the honey for maple syrup and add a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. This granola is perfect for topping smoothie bowls or enjoying with milk.

Why trust this Grain-Free Granola Recipe:

This grain-free granola recipe is a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a healthier breakfast or snack. Packed with raw almonds, pecans, and brazil nuts, it provides a satisfying crunch and a boost of essential nutrients. The use of coconut oil and raw honey adds natural sweetness and healthy fats, while the dried apricots and dried cherries offer a delightful burst of flavor. Easy to make and customizable, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, homemade treat.

Want to share your experience making this grain-free granola recipe or have any tips to enhance it further? Head over to our Baking and Desserts forum section and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use different nuts or seeds in this granola recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any nuts or seeds you prefer. Just keep the total quantity the same to ensure the granola bakes evenly.

How should I store the granola?

I recommend storing the granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of raw honey?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for raw honey. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor.

Is there a way to make this granola less sweet?

Sure thing! You can reduce the amount of honey or use unsweetened dried fruits. Adjust to your taste preference.

Can I add other dried fruits or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite dried fruits or even chocolate chips after the granola has cooled. Just make sure to add them after baking to prevent burning.