If you’re looking for a satisfying snack that’s free of grains but packed with crunch, this Grain-Free Granola is a must-try. Made with sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and pecans, it delivers a nutty, toasty flavor that’s both delicious and filling. This granola is easy to whip up in just a few minutes and offers a healthier alternative to store-bought varieties.
Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, as a topping for yogurt, or paired with fresh fruit, this granola is a great option that you can easily customize to suit your tastes.
Why Grain-Free Granola?
Traditional granolas often include oats and other grains, but this recipe keeps things simple by focusing on nutrient-rich ingredients like almonds, pecans, and chia seeds. These nuts and seeds not only provide plenty of crunch, but they’re also packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep you satisfied.
The addition of shredded coconut adds a touch of natural sweetness, while the spices—cinnamon and cardamom—bring warmth and depth to the flavor. Plus, by using granulated sugar, this recipe has a lovely, light sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the nuts and seeds.
How to Enjoy Your Granola
This Grain-Free Granola is delicious on its own, but it can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few suggestions for serving:
- Yogurt Topping: Sprinkle the granola over your favorite yogurt for a crunchy, nutrient-packed topping that adds texture and flavor.
- Smoothie Bowls: Add it to smoothie bowls for an extra layer of crunch.
- Snack on Its Own: Pack it up as a quick, on-the-go snack for whenever you need a boost of energy.
This granola is incredibly customizable and makes for the perfect addition to your breakfast or snack routine.
Storing Your Granola
To keep your granola fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will last up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep. You can also make a larger batch and store half in the freezer, extending its shelf life while ensuring you always have a crunchy snack on hand.
Customize Your Granola
What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences:
- Seeds: Try adding sunflower or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch and boost of nutrients.
- Nuts: Use walnuts or hazelnuts in place of pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Play around with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your granola a new twist.
With these options, you can create a unique batch of granola that perfectly fits your flavor preferences.
A Fun and Easy Recipe
One of the best parts about this Grain-Free Granola is how easy it is to make. With just a few minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious batch of granola that’s fresh and customizable. The combination of coconut oil and sugar creates a light syrup that binds everything together, while the toasting process brings out the natural flavors of the nuts and seeds.
Next time you’re craving a healthy snack, try making this Grain-Free Granola. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day.
Grain-Free Granola
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ cup thin-sliced almonds
- ½ cup shredded coconut flakes
- ½ cup pecan pieces
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼-½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced almonds, unsweetened shredded coconut flakes, pecan pieces, and chia seeds.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and cardamom.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the coconut oil and granulated sugar to the skillet, stirring constantly until they combine to form a syrup. Make sure the sugar fully melts into the coconut oil.
- Once the syrup is ready, add the almond, coconut, and pecan mixture to the skillet. Stir continuously to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the syrup.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt over the granola mixture, stirring to distribute the spices.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the coconut and almonds begin to turn lightly golden brown and toasted.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the granola to a plate or tray to cool.
- Once cooled, store the granola in an airtight container for up to one week.