If you’re on the hunt for a delicious way to start your day, this Coconut Almond Granola Recipe is a total game changer. It combines the toasty crunch of rolled oats and almonds with the tropical sweetness of shredded coconut, all tied together with a hint of cinnamon and a whisper of vanilla. It’s that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty, making it ideal for breakfast or anytime snack cravings. Plus, since you can whip it up yourself, every bite feels fresh and wholesome, far better than anything store-bought.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Coconut Almond Granola Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds a crucial element — whether it’s flavor, texture, or a subtle pop of color.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base that gives granola its satisfying chew and bulk.
- 1 cup sliced almonds: Adds a wonderful crunch and a nutty depth.
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Brings a lovely tropical sweetness without overpowering the mix.
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted): Helps everything clump together and adds a silky texture with coconut undertones.
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey: The natural sweetener that balances the salty and nutty flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the granola with warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle spice that aromatizes the entire batch.
How to Make Coconut Almond Granola Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper — this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, while giving your granola a perfect non-stick surface to bake evenly.
Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients
In a spacious bowl, toss together the rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, sea salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout your granola.
Step 3: Whisk the wet mixture
In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk the melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. This sweet and fragrant mixture will coat the dry ingredients, lending the granola its signature golden hue and delicious clumped texture.
Step 4: Mix and spread
Pour the wet ingredients over your dry blend and stir well until every oat and almond slice is evenly coated with that glossy, sweet mixture. Then, spread it out in an even layer on your parchment-lined sheet, pressing down slightly to encourage chunkier clusters.
Step 5: Bake with care
Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on your granola to avoid over-browning. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden brown color and that deeply nutty aroma coming from your oven.
Step 6: Cool and break into clusters
Remove the granola from the oven and resist the temptation to stir it while cooling — letting it sit undisturbed on the baking sheet allows those cozy clusters to form. Once completely cooled, break it into chunks of your favorite size and it’s ready to enjoy or store.
How to Serve Coconut Almond Granola Recipe
Garnishes
This granola is perfect on its own, but a sprinkle of fresh berries, a drizzle of yogurt, or a scattering of sliced banana can elevate your bowl beautifully. Adding a few extra almonds or a light dusting of cinnamon on top also provides a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Serve it alongside a chilled smoothie bowl, a warm fruit compote, or a side of sliced apples for contrasting flavors and textures. It’s fantastic paired with creamy Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives for a balanced, satisfying breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not layer this granola with fruit and vanilla yogurt in a clear glass for an eye-catching parfait? Or pack it in small jars as a thoughtful homemade gift. Sprinkling it on top of ice cream adds a crunchy, natural topping that no one expects but everyone loves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your homemade Coconut Almond Granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making it a fantastic pantry staple to have on hand for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep it even longer, granola freezes wonderfully. Just pop it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it can be stored for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy that fresh crunch.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer a warm crunch, briefly toast the granola in a dry skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes. This will restore its crispiness and boost those toasty flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or cashews would all make delicious substitutions or additions to this Coconut Almond Granola Recipe. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the right texture balance.
Is this granola vegan-friendly?
It certainly can be! Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the granola 100 percent vegan while still enjoying that natural sweetness.
Can I add dried fruit to the recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins after baking to prevent them from drying out or burning. They add a nice chewy contrast to the crunchy clusters.
How do I get bigger clusters instead of loose granola?
Pressing the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking helps the granola stick together in clusters. Also, avoid stirring too aggressively when it’s hot and let it cool completely on the baking sheet without disturbance.
Can this granola be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats, and all your other ingredients should naturally be gluten-free, making this recipe safe and tasty for gluten-sensitive folks.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Coconut Almond Granola Recipe enough for your kitchen adventures. It’s easy, adaptable, and delivers such a comforting, fresh-from-the-oven flavor that feels like a little slice of morning happiness in every bite. Give it a try — your breakfast routine is about to get a seriously delicious upgrade!
Print
Coconut Almond Granola Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Coconut Almond Granola is a delicious and healthy homemade breakfast option made with rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey. Baked to golden perfection, this gluten-free and vegetarian granola offers a perfect balance of crunch and flavor, ideal for enjoying with yogurt, milk, or as a snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to evenly distribute all the dry components.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Coat Dry Mixture: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sweetened coconut oil mixture.
- Spread and Press: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. Press the mixture down slightly to encourage the granola to clump together as it bakes.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Bake until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool Completely: Remove the granola from the oven, and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. This resting time helps the clusters to form naturally.
- Store: Once cooled, break the granola into chunks as desired and store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, bake a few minutes longer while watching closely to prevent burning.
- Add dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins after baking for extra sweetness.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a non-vegan alternative.
