Name: Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups raw and unsalted nuts and seeds; 4 cups Old fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup flaked unsweetened coconut; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp kosher salt; ⅓ cup coconut oil; ⅓ cup honey; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; ½ cups freeze dried fruit

Slow-cooked granola is a delightful and nutritious breakfast option or snack. The process of slow cooking allows the flavors to fully develop, creating a rich and satisfying crunch. This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to play around with the ingredients based on your preference.

Photos of Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you may not commonly have old fashioned rolled oats, flaked unsweetened coconut, or freeze dried fruit on hand. These can be easily found in the cereal or baking aisle of most supermarkets. Also, if you do not typically bake or cook with coconut oil, you can find it in the oil section.

Slow-Cooked Granola Ingredients

Olive oil: Used to grease the slow cooker, preventing the granola from sticking.

Raw and unsalted nuts and seeds: Adds crunch and a variety of textures to the granola.

Old fashioned rolled oats: The main ingredient in granola, providing a hearty and nutritious base.

Flaked unsweetened coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and additional crunch.

Ground cinnamon: Gives the granola a warm and comforting flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Coconut oil: Used for its health benefits and subtle coconut flavor.

Honey: Sweetens the granola naturally.

Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

Freeze dried fruit: Provides a burst of sweet and tart flavors.

One reader, Kettie Sample says:

This slow-cooked granola recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the texture is perfect. The slow cooking process really brings out the nutty and toasty flavors. Plus, it's so easy to make and the house smells amazing while it's cooking. I'm hooked!

Kettie Sample

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Granola

How to slow cook the granola: This technique involves setting the slow cooker to high and leaving the lid slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape and encourage hot air circulation. The granola should be cooked for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, with thorough stirring every 20 to 30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the slow cooker, so it's essential to keep a close eye on the granola towards the end of the cooking process to prevent burning.

How to cool the granola: After slow cooking, spread the granola onto lined cookie sheets to encourage cooling. The granola will crisp further as it cools, which typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once cooled, dried fruit can be stirred in as desired.

How to store the granola: The cooled granola should be placed in an airtight container and stored in a cool, dry place. It is recommended to use the granola within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

How To Make Slow-Cooked Granola

Use this granola recipe if you want to skip the oven and let your slow cooker do the work. It’s loaded with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, coconut, and oats.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil,or coconut oil, or cooking spray for greasing the slow cooker
2cupsnuts and seeds,raw and unsalted
4cupsold fashioned rolled oats,(not quick cooking oats)
1cupflaked unsweetened coconut
1tspground cinnamon
¼tspkosher salt
⅓cupcoconut oil,or olive oil, melted
⅓cuphoney,or maple syrup
1tbspvanilla extract
½cupsfreeze dried fruit,(or 1 cup dried fruit), chopped if the fruits are larger than raisins or use a delicious mix of both

Instructions

Lightly spray or grease the inside of the slow cooker with oil.
Combine the oats, coconut, nuts and seeds, spices, and salt in the slow cooker and stir to combine. Whisk together the oil, liquid sweetener, and vanilla extract. Pour over the dry ingredients and mix together.
Set the slow cooker to high and leave the lid a bit ajar. This will allow moisture to escape and encourage hot air to circulate. Cook for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring the mixture together thoroughly every 20 to 30 minutes.
Toward the end of cooking, keep a closer eye on it as the nuts and coconut may begin to burn if they’ve not been stirred enough. The granola is finished when it starts to smell fragrant and the ingredients take on a toasted color.
Spread the granola out onto a few cookie sheets lined with foil or parchment (for easy transfer later) to encourage cooling. The granola will crisp further as it cools for about 10 to 15 minutes. Once cool, stir in any dried fruit as desired.
Place in an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Use within 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 587.51kcal
Fat: 38.08g
Saturated Fat: 16.99g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.06g
Carbohydrates: 56.71g
Fiber: 9.60g
Sugar: 17.34g
Protein: 12.55g
Sodium: 69.51mg
Calcium: 52.67mg
Potassium: 516.15mg
Iron: 3.98mg
Vitamin A: 11.19µg
Vitamin C: 0.86mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Your Slow-Cooked Granola

To ensure your granola achieves the perfect level of crunchiness, it's crucial to leave the lid of your slow cooker slightly ajar. This allows the moisture to escape and encourages hot air to circulate, resulting in a perfectly toasted and crispy granola. Additionally, stirring the granola every 20 to 30 minutes can prevent the nuts and coconut from burning, ensuring an even toast throughout. Remember, patience is key when slow cooking granola, as it crisps further upon cooling.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.

Use a food processor: Consider using a food processor to chop the nuts and seeds quickly and evenly, saving time and effort compared to chopping by hand.

Set a timer: Use a timer to remind you to stir the granola mixture at regular intervals, ensuring it cooks evenly without the need for constant monitoring.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of granola and storing it for future use, reducing the frequency of preparation and saving time in the long run.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work, making it easier to find ingredients and reducing the time spent searching for tools and utensils.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the granola, and it also has a high smoke point, making it suitable for slow cooking.
raw and unsalted nuts and seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds: These seeds can provide a similar crunch and nuttiness to the granola, and they are great sources of healthy fats and nutrients.
old fashioned rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats and will provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to the granola.
flaked unsweetened coconut - Substitute with chopped dried apricots: Dried apricots can add a natural sweetness and chewy texture similar to coconut flakes, while also providing a burst of fruity flavor to the granola.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can offer a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, adding a delightful aroma and taste to the granola.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide the same level of saltiness and flavor enhancement to the granola as kosher salt.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can add a rich and creamy flavor to the granola, and it will also help the ingredients bind together during slow cooking.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar level of sweetness and stickiness to the granola, while also adding a delightful hint of caramel flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a nutty and sweet flavor similar to vanilla, enhancing the overall taste of the granola.
freeze dried fruit - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can offer a chewy and sweet addition to the granola, similar to freeze-dried fruit, while also providing a pop of color and fruity flavor.

Presenting Your Delicious Homemade Granola

Elevate the granola with a unique serving vessel: Present the slow-cooked granola in a handcrafted ceramic bowl or a rustic wooden dish to add a touch of artisanal charm to the presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a pop of color and elegance to the dish by delicately placing a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, on top of the granola. This will create a visually stunning and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle of honey: Use a small squeeze bottle to artfully drizzle a thin, zigzag pattern of honey over the granola, adding a touch of sweetness and creating an attractive visual element.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the granola and dried fruits in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, creating a visually appealing and balanced presentation that showcases the ingredients with precision.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to create a subtle, elegant touch that enhances the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Serve with a side of yogurt: Present the slow-cooked granola alongside a small dish of creamy Greek yogurt, allowing guests to customize their serving and adding a luxurious element to the presentation.
Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style by arranging the granola in a neat, compact mound, allowing the natural textures and colors of the ingredients to take center stage.
Incorporate a sprinkle of cacao nibs: Add a sprinkle of cacao nibs on top of the granola to introduce a contrasting texture and a hint of rich, chocolatey flavor, enhancing the overall visual and sensory experience.
Present in individual serving jars: Serve the slow-cooked granola in individual glass jars, layering the ingredients for a visually stunning and Instagram-worthy presentation that showcases the beautiful layers of the granola.
Use a monochromatic color scheme: Coordinate the presentation by using neutral-toned plates and bowls to create a cohesive and sophisticated color palette that complements the earthy tones of the granola and nuts.

Essential Tools for Making Slow-Cooked Granola

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used to chop, blend, puree, and mix ingredients. It's great for quickly breaking down nuts and seeds for the granola recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Slow cooker: The slow cooker is the main cooking vessel for this recipe, allowing the granola to cook slowly and evenly without the need for constant stirring.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Granola

To store the granola, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable bag. This will help maintain its crunchiness and freshness.
When storing, make sure to keep the granola in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will prevent the granola from becoming stale or soggy.
If stored properly, the slow-cooked granola can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature. However, if you live in a humid environment, it's best to consume it within a week to ensure optimal texture and flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the granola for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cooled granola in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
When ready to enjoy the frozen granola, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crunchiness.
If you've added any dried fruits to your granola, it's best to store them separately and mix them in just before serving. This will prevent the fruits from becoming too moist and affecting the texture of the granola.
To maintain the quality and freshness of your granola, avoid adding any wet or moist ingredients, such as fresh fruits or yogurt, until you're ready to serve. This will help keep the granola crisp and crunchy.

How To Reheat Leftover Granola

The best way to reheat leftover slow-cooked granola is to spread it out on a baking sheet and bake it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's warm and crispy again. This method helps to restore the granola's crunchiness and brings out the flavors of the nuts, seeds, and spices.
Another option is to reheat the granola in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir the granola constantly to prevent burning and ensure even heating. This method is quicker than the oven method but requires more attention to avoid overheating or burning the granola.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can microwave the leftover granola in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, stirring every 15-20 seconds to distribute the heat evenly. Be careful not to overheat the granola, as it can become chewy or rubbery.
For a quick and easy breakfast or snack, you can also enjoy leftover granola straight from the container without reheating. The granola will have a slightly softer texture compared to freshly baked granola, but it will still be delicious and satisfying.
If your leftover granola has lost its crunchiness due to moisture absorption, you can try spreading it out on a baking sheet and placing it in a preheated oven at the lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F or 65°C) for 30-60 minutes, or until it's dry and crispy again. This method is similar to dehydrating the granola and can help restore its texture.

Surprising Fact About Slow-Cooked Granola

The slow-cooked granola recipe is a great source of healthy fats and fiber, making it a nutritious and delicious breakfast option.

Is Making Granola at Home Cost-Effective?

The slow-cooked granola recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With raw nuts and seeds, rolled oats, and coconut oil as the main ingredients, it offers a nutritious and budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for adjustments based on available ingredients, making it adaptable to varying budgets. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, providing a substantial amount of granola that can last for several servings. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Granola Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow-cooked granola recipe is a healthier alternative to store-bought granola, as it contains wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and coconut. The use of honey and coconut oil provides natural sweetness and healthy fats, while the absence of refined sugars and artificial additives is a plus. However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of calories and fat due to the nuts, seeds, and coconut oil.

To make this recipe even healthier:

Reduce the amount of coconut oil and replace it with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for moisture and natural sweetness
Use a variety of nuts and seeds to provide a diverse range of nutrients, such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to add flavor without increasing calorie content
Incorporate more dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or goji berries for added fiber and antioxidants
Consider using a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract instead of honey to reduce the overall sugar content

Editor's Opinion: Why This Granola Recipe Stands Out

The slow-cooked granola recipe is a delightful twist on traditional granola, infusing a rich depth of flavor through the slow cooking process. The combination of nuts, seeds, oats, and coconut creates a satisfying crunch, while the addition of honey and vanilla adds a touch of sweetness. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a fragrant and toasty granola. The use of freeze-dried fruit adds a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your breakfast or snack game with a homemade, wholesome treat.

Enhance Your Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the slow-cooked granola with a side of roasted vegetables for a savory and crunchy contrast to the sweetness of the granola.

Grilled Chicken: Pair the slow-cooked granola with some grilled chicken for a balanced meal that combines the crunch of the granola with the tenderness of the chicken.

Fruit Salad: For a refreshing and light side dish, consider serving the slow-cooked granola with a colorful fruit salad to add a burst of freshness to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Slow-Cooked Granola

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and hearty dish that combines ground meat, rice, and flavorful seasonings, all stuffed inside colorful bell peppers and baked to perfection.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: A refreshing and tropical dessert that combines creamy coconut milk, sweet mango chunks, and nutritious chia seeds for a healthy and satisfying treat.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and flavorful soup made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy coconut milk for a dairy-free twist on the classic tomato soup.

Why trust this Slow-Cooked Granola Recipe:

This slow-cooked granola recipe offers a unique twist on traditional granola, providing a delightful combination of nuts and seeds, rolled oats, and coconut for a satisfying crunch. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic blend of cinnamon and vanilla extract. With the addition of freeze dried fruit, this recipe promises a burst of natural sweetness. Trust in the carefully selected ingredients and the meticulous slow-cooking method to deliver a wholesome and delicious granola that will elevate your breakfast or snack time experience.

Share your experience with this slow-cooked granola recipe and discuss tips, variations, or any questions you may have in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use different types of nuts and seeds in this granola recipe?

Yes, you can definitely customize the nuts and seeds in this recipe to your preference. Feel free to use a mix of almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or any other nuts and seeds you enjoy.

Can I substitute the liquid sweetener with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer to use a different sweetener, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown rice syrup. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may slightly alter the flavor of the granola.

How long can I store the granola for?

You can store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it's in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and crunchiness.

Can I skip the coconut in the recipe?

Of course! If you're not a fan of coconut, you can simply omit it from the recipe without needing to make any other adjustments. The granola will still turn out delicious with a wonderful blend of nuts, seeds, and oats.

Can I add fresh fruit instead of freeze-dried fruit?

While the recipe calls for freeze-dried fruit, you can certainly add fresh fruit to your granola when serving. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples make delightful additions to the granola when it's time to enjoy a bowl.