This toasted coconut tropical granola recipe is a delightful mix of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy. It's packed with old fashioned rolled oats, a variety of nuts, and tropical dried fruits, all sweetened with natural bananas and pure maple syrup. The recipe is easy to follow and the result is a nutritious and tasty granola that can be enjoyed as a breakfast cereal or a quick snack.
The ingredients in this recipe are generally easy to find in most supermarkets. The dried mango pieces and dried pineapple chunks add a tropical flavor and can be found in the dried fruits section. If you can't find honey roasted peanuts, plain roasted peanuts would work too. Shredded coconut may be available in the baking aisle or with other nuts and dried fruits.
Ingredients for Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
Bananas: used for natural sweetness and to bind the granola together.
Coconut oil: helps to make the granola crispy and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
Pure maple syrup: sweetens the granola without using refined sugar.
Salt: enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Old fashioned rolled oats: provide a hearty and chewy base for the granola.
Cashews: add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the mix.
Pecans: contributes another layer of crunch and nuttiness.
Banana chips: adds a sweet and crisp element.
Honey roasted peanuts: provide extra crunch and sweetness.
Raisins: gives a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
Dried mango pieces: offers a chewy texture and tropical flair.
Dried pineapple chunks: adds sweetness and a tangy tropical flavor.
Shredded coconut: brings a nice texture, flavor and it's toasted for extra crunchiness.
One reader, Daloris Paine says:
This toasted coconut tropical granola recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and toasted coconut creates a tropical paradise in every bite. It's the perfect blend of flavors and textures, and it's so easy to make. I can't get enough of it!
Techniques Required for Making Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
How to toast coconut: Spread shredded coconut in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 300 degrees F for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to ensure even browning. Set the toasted coconut aside.
How to mix the wet ingredients: Mash the bananas and mix them with coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt until well combined.
How to bake the granola: Spread the wet mixture onto a large baking sheet with the oats, nuts, and dried banana chips. Bake at 300 degrees F for 20 minutes, stirring at the 10-minute mark. Add the dried fruit halfway through baking, if baking in two batches. After 20 minutes, mix in the toasted coconut and honey roasted peanuts. Allow the granola to cool completely before enjoying.
How To Make Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
Shredded coconuts, pineapple, and mangoes are mixed to make this granola recipe! It’s a tropical bowl of sweet and healthy bites to start your day right.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¾cupbananas,(about 2 small), ripe, mashed
- 2½tbspcoconut oil,melted
- ¼cuppure maple syrup
- ⅛tspsalt
- 3cupsold fashioned rolled oats
- ¾cupcashews
- ¾cuppecans
- 1cupbanana chips
- ¾cuphoney roasted peanuts
- ½cupraisins
- ½cupdried mango pieces,or dried papaya
- 1cupdried pineapple chunks
- 1cupshredded coconut,toasted
- handfulshredded coconut,not toasted, optional
Instructions
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Spread shredded coconut in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake at 300 degrees F for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to make sure that the coconut browns evenly. Set the toasted coconut aside.
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Combine the oats, dried banana chips, cashews, and pecans in a large bowl and set aside.
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Mix together the mashed banana, coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt.
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Pour the wet mixture into the oat mixture, then stir until all of the oats and nuts are moistened. Spread onto a large baking sheet in a thin layer.
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Bake at 300 degrees F for 20 minutes, stirring at the 10-minute mark. Remove from oven and mix in the dried fruit or half of the dried fruit if baking in 2 batches.
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Place back in the oven for 20 more minutes, stirring at the 10-minute mark.
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Remove the cooked granola from the oven and mix in the toasted coconut and honey roasted peanuts. Throw in a handful of un-toasted coconut, if desired.
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Allow granola to cool completely and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 596.91kcal
- Fat: 37.62g
- Saturated Fat: 16.99g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.86g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.07g
- Carbohydrates: 61.37g
- Fiber: 9.57g
- Sugar: 25.24g
- Protein: 12.90g
- Sodium: 89.49mg
- Calcium: 58.46mg
- Potassium: 667.57mg
- Iron: 3.55mg
- Vitamin A: 7.66µg
- Vitamin C: 16.98mg
Key Technique Tip for Perfect Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
To ensure your granola achieves the perfect level of crunchiness without burning, it's crucial to keep a close eye on it while it's in the oven. Stirring the granola every 10 minutes helps it to cook evenly and prevents any pieces from getting too dark. Also, remember that granola continues to harden as it cools, so it's best to remove it from the oven when it's just slightly less crunchy than you'd like it to be.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Granola at Home
Prep ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Consider making a larger quantity of the granola and storing it for future use to save time on preparation.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the nuts and dried fruits, saving time and effort.
Set a timer: Keep an eye on the baking time by setting a timer to ensure the granola doesn't overcook, allowing you to multitask effectively.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and utensils.
Substitute Ingredients For Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola Recipe
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a rich and creamy flavor similar to coconut oil, adding a delicious richness to the granola.
pure maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, providing a similar level of sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the granola.
old fashioned rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor to the granola.
cashews - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the granola, offering a delicious alternative to cashews.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can offer a similar rich and buttery flavor to the granola, providing a delicious alternative to pecans.
banana chips - Substitute with dried pineapple: Dried pineapple can add a sweet and tropical flavor to the granola, replacing the banana chips with a delicious fruity alternative.
honey roasted peanuts - Substitute with macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts can provide a creamy and buttery flavor, adding a delicious richness to the granola as a substitute for honey roasted peanuts.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can offer a tart and sweet flavor, providing a delicious alternative to raisins in the granola.
dried mango pieces - Substitute with dried papaya chunks: Dried papaya chunks can provide a similar tropical sweetness and chewy texture, offering a delicious alternative to dried mango pieces in the granola.
dried pineapple chunks - Substitute with dried apricots: Dried apricots can offer a sweet and tangy flavor, providing a delicious alternative to dried pineapple chunks in the granola.
shredded coconut - Substitute with chopped macadamia nuts: Chopped macadamia nuts can provide a similar creamy and nutty flavor, adding a delicious crunch and richness to the granola as a substitute for shredded coconut.
Best Way to Present Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
Elevate the granola with a tropical fruit parfait: Create a stunning parfait by layering the toasted coconut tropical granola with layers of fresh tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, and banana. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and a drizzle of honey for an elegant touch.
Create a granola and yogurt terrine: Layer the toasted coconut tropical granola with creamy Greek yogurt in a terrine mold, then freeze until set. Unmold and slice into elegant portions, serving with a drizzle of passionfruit coulis and a sprinkle of chopped macadamia nuts for a sophisticated dessert.
Present the granola in a coconut shell: Hollow out a coconut shell and fill it with the toasted coconut tropical granola, creating a visually stunning and unique presentation. Serve with a side of coconut milk for guests to pour over the granola at the table.
Construct a tropical granola trifle: Layer the granola with coconut whipped cream, fresh tropical fruits, and a drizzle of rum-infused syrup in a glass trifle dish. Garnish with edible orchid flowers and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a show-stopping dessert.
Fashion a granola and fruit sushi roll: Roll the granola in a sheet of dried mango or pineapple, then slice into elegant sushi-style portions. Serve with a side of coconut yogurt for dipping and garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and a dusting of edible gold leaf for a luxurious touch.
Present the granola in a coconut bowl: Serve the toasted coconut tropical granola in a halved coconut shell, accompanied by a selection of fresh tropical fruits and a drizzle of passionfruit syrup. This presentation adds a touch of island-inspired elegance to the dish.
Create a tropical granola parfait bar: Set up a DIY parfait bar with the toasted coconut tropical granola, assorted tropical fruits, coconut yogurt, and a variety of toppings such as toasted coconut, chopped nuts, and honey. Allow guests to assemble their own parfaits for a personalized and interactive dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Homemade Granola
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making nut butters, grinding nuts, and mixing granola ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the granola ingredients and wet mixture. It allows for easy stirring and ensures that all the components are evenly coated.
How To Store and Freeze Homemade Granola
Allow the granola to cool completely before storing. This will help maintain its crunchiness and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store the cooled granola in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help keep out moisture and maintain freshness.
For optimal freshness, consume the granola within 2-3 weeks when stored at room temperature.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your granola, consider storing it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 1 month when refrigerated.
To freeze the granola, place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
When properly stored in the freezer, the granola can last up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen granola, simply remove it from the freezer and let it come to room temperature. You can also warm it up in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes to restore its crunchiness.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or off-odors, discard the granola immediately.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid mixing fresh granola with older batches when storing.
Consider portioning the granola into smaller containers or bags for convenient grab-and-go snacking or to prevent moisture from affecting the entire batch.
How To Reheat Leftover Granola
To reheat leftover toasted coconut tropical granola, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the granola is warm and slightly crispy. This method helps to restore the crunch and freshness of the oats, nuts, and dried fruits.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the granola in the microwave. Place a portion of the granola in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the granola is warm and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overheat the granola, as it can quickly burn in the microwave.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the granola in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of coconut oil or butter to the skillet and heat it over medium-low heat. Add the granola and stir continuously until it is warm and slightly softened. This method is perfect for those who enjoy a more chewy granola texture.
For a no-heat option, you can simply let the granola come to room temperature before serving. This method works well if you prefer a softer, chewier texture. If the granola has absorbed moisture and become too soft, you can spread it out on a baking sheet and let it air dry for a few hours to restore some of its crunchiness.
Lastly, you can incorporate leftover granola into other dishes for a delicious and convenient breakfast or snack. Try sprinkling it over yogurt, smoothie bowls, or fresh fruit. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream, pudding, or baked fruits for a satisfying dessert.
Random Fact About Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
Granola is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be eaten as a cereal with milk or yogurt, sprinkled over smoothie bowls, or even used as a topping for desserts. Its crunchy texture and sweet flavor make it a popular choice for a quick and nutritious snack.
Is Making Granola at Home Economical?
The toasted coconut tropical granola recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of oats, nuts, and dried fruits provides a good balance of nutrition and flavor. However, the inclusion of honey roasted peanuts and pure maple syrup may increase the overall cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the nutritional value, flavor, and versatility of the granola.
Is This Granola Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This tropical granola recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:
- Whole grains from the old-fashioned rolled oats, which provide fiber and nutrients
- Healthy fats from the nuts and coconut oil
- Natural sweetness from the dried fruits and maple syrup
However, there are some less healthy components:
- High sugar content from the dried fruits, banana chips, and honey-roasted peanuts
- Saturated fat from the coconut oil and shredded coconut
- Overall calorie density due to the combination of nuts, dried fruits, and added oils
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of dried fruit and banana chips, as they are high in sugar
- Replace the honey-roasted peanuts with raw or dry-roasted peanuts to reduce added sugar
- Use a smaller amount of coconut oil or replace it with a healthier oil, such as olive oil
- Incorporate more seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for added nutrients and healthy fats
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor without increasing calorie content
- Serve the granola with fresh fruit and low-fat yogurt to balance out the meal
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious granola that still retains its tropical flavors. Experiment with different combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to find a mix that satisfies your taste preferences while providing a healthier breakfast or snack option.
Editor's Thoughts on This Tropical Granola Recipe
This toasted coconut tropical granola recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of bananas, coconut oil, and maple syrup creates a rich and sweet base, while the addition of cashews, pecans, and dried fruits adds a satisfying crunch and chewiness. The toasted coconut and honey roasted peanuts bring a delightful nuttiness and depth of flavor. The recipe's use of natural ingredients and tropical fruits makes it a wholesome and delicious choice for breakfast or snacking. The granola's versatility allows for customization with different nuts and fruits, making it a truly delightful and customizable treat.
Enhance Your Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Other Granola Recipes Similar to This Tropical Version
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola
Why trust this Toasted Coconut Tropical Granola Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious and nutritious granola experience. The combination of coconut oil, maple syrup, and ripe bananas ensures a delightful tropical flavor. The use of cashews, pecans, and honey roasted peanuts adds a satisfying crunch, while the dried mango pieces and pineapple chunks provide a burst of sweetness. The toasty aroma and flavor of the toasted coconut elevate the overall taste. With carefully selected ingredients and precise instructions, this recipe promises a delightful and trustworthy granola that will surely impress.
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