Easy homemade granola clusters made with rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and natural maple syrup. This baked granola is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or topping yogurt and smoothie bowls. A healthy, gluten-free option that can be customized with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.

Ingredients

2/3 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup coconut oil (or olive oil)
1 teaspoon fine sea salt*
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups old-fashioned (rolled) oats
1 cup sliced or slivered almonds
2/3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup sunflower seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a half sheet pan (18 x 13 inches) with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Warm the Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, coconut oil, sea salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, whisking until the coconut oil has fully melted and the mixture is well blended. Avoid boiling or simmering. Remove from heat.

3. Combine with Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, coconut flakes, pecans, and sunflower seeds. Pour the warm syrup mixture over the dry ingredients. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Bake the Granola

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Press down gently with a spatula to compact it. Bake for 25 minutes. Without stirring, rotate the pan 180° to ensure even baking. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the granola turns lightly golden.

5. Cool and Break Into Clusters

Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the granola to cool completely. It may seem soft at first but will harden as it cools. Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your preferred size by hand.

6. Store or Serve

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy, naturally sweetened granola clusters with a perfect blend of nuts and seeds.
Made with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare at home.
Great for breakfast, snacks, or topping yogurt and smoothie bowls.

Tips

Press the granola firmly on the baking sheet to create larger clusters.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
For extra crunch, toast the nuts lightly before mixing.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap pecans for walnuts or cashews.
Add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins after baking.
Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this granola gluten-free?
Yes, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.

Q: How do I keep granola crunchy?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature and avoid moisture.

Serving

Serve granola clusters with milk, yogurt, or sprinkle over fresh fruit. They also make a great topping for smoothie bowls or ice cream.

Suggestions

Mix granola into homemade trail mix for an easy on-the-go snack.
Use granola clusters to add texture to baked goods like muffins or cookies.
Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a sweet twist.