Crispy and Delicious Grain-Free Granola

Who doesn’t love a crunchy, sweet, and satisfying granola? Finding one that’s grain-free and still packed with flavor can be challenging, but this homemade grain-free granola is here to change that! Loaded with a variety of seeds, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetness, this granola is incredibly easy to make. Best of all, it’s free from grains, making it a perfect option for those following a grain-free or low-carb lifestyle. Plus, it’s a nutrition powerhouse that will keep you energized throughout the day!

Yield: 10 cups

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1.5 cups flaked unsweetened coconut (60g)
• 1 cup nuts, chopped (120g) (I use mix of almonds, walnuts, pecans, and cashews)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (60g)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (30g)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (24g)
• 2 tablespoons hemp seeds (16g)
• 1 tablespoon flax seeds (8g)
• 3/4 teaspoon sea or Kosher salt (4g)
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon (14g)
• 1/2 cup raisins or craisins (I use 50% less sugar craisins) (80g)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) (30ml)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (60ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (5ml)
• 1 egg white (lightly beaten)

How to Make Grain-Free Granola

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the granola from sticking and makes cleanup super easy!

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked unsweetened coconut (1.5 cups, 60g), chopped nuts (1 cup, 120g), pumpkin seeds (1/2 cup, 60g), sunflower seeds (1/4 cup, 30g), chia seeds (2 tablespoons, 24g), hemp seeds (2 tablespoons, 16g), flax seeds (1 tablespoon, 8g), salt (3/4 teaspoon, 4g), and cinnamon (2 tablespoons, 14g). Stir until everything is well mixed.

3. Heat the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons, 30ml), maple syrup (1/4 cup, 60ml), vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, 5ml), and apple cider vinegar (1 teaspoon, 5ml). Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the ingredients are fully combined and slightly warmed.

4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Together: Pour the warmed wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture.

5. Add the Egg White: Gently fold in the lightly beaten egg white. The egg white helps bind the granola together and adds a nice crunch when baked.

6. Spread and Flatten on a Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to flatten it down into a single layer. This ensures even baking and helps create those nice, crunchy clusters.

7. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes at 320°F (160°C), or until the granola is lightly golden and fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. It should be a beautiful golden brown and feel slightly crisp when it’s done.

8. Cool Completely Before Storing: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters or transferring it to a container. Allowing it to cool fully helps it crisp up even more!

Why Choose Grain-Free Granola?

Traditional granolas are often filled with oats and added sugars, which can spike blood sugar levels and may not fit into a grain-free or keto-friendly diet. This grain-free granola skips the grains and instead focuses on nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, and unsweetened coconut flakes. These ingredients provide a satisfying crunch and are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making this granola a true nutrition powerhouse that helps keep you fuller for longer.

Tips for the Perfect Grain-Free Granola:

• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out any of the nuts or seeds for your favorites. Don’t have pumpkin seeds? No problem! Use more sunflower seeds instead. The recipe is very flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Add a Little Extra Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter granola, consider adding a bit more maple syrup or even a handful of chocolate chips after the granola has cooled.
• For Extra Crunchy Granola: Make sure to flatten the granola mixture on the baking sheet. The egg white also helps achieve that extra crunch by binding the ingredients together as they bake.

Why You’ll Love This Grain-Free Granola:

1. It’s a Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.
2. Grain-Free and Low-Carb: Perfect for those following a paleo, keto, or grain-free diet.
3. Totally Customizable: Switch up the nuts and seeds to match what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
4. Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this granola nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the nuts for more seeds like sunflower seeds or additional pumpkin seeds to keep it nut-free.

2. How should I store this granola?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the freezer for up to three months.

3. Can I add other sweeteners or flavors?
Yes! Feel free to add other natural sweeteners like honey or a sugar-free alternative if you prefer. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon, vanilla, or nutmeg.

4. How can I use this grain-free granola?
Enjoy it on its own as a snack, sprinkled over yogurt or smoothie bowls, or with a splash of your favorite milk alternative.

5. What makes this granola grain-free?
This recipe skips the oats and other grains and instead focuses on nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, and coconut flakes.

For more granola inspiration, check out Terriann Carty, the queen of granola, who inspired this recipe: Terriann Carty’s Granola Recipes.