RECIPE: Maple Crunch Granola {Oil-Free}

We LOVE granola, but it’s a struggle to find one we can eat without spending an arm and a leg.  Making your own not only saves you money, but you can also easily change up the flavor and texture. This time around, I was on a mission to create one that was not only full of flavor, but also oil-free. Here’s a recipe that will leave your house smelling like fresh-baked cookies….yum!

 

 

MAPLE CRUNCH GRANOLA: {vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, oil-free, refined sugar-free}

What you need:

• 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/3 cup raw walnuts, chopped*
• 1/4 cup coconut flakes
• 2 TBSP raw cacao nibs
• 1/4 tsp ground vanilla bean (can use pure vanilla extract)
• pinch of Himalayan pink sea salt
• 1/2 cup nut or seed butter (I did half PB, half raw almond butter)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/3 cup dried fruit, such as blueberries, cranberries or raisins (for this batch I used organic raisins)

*For those who are also nut-free, you can omit the chopped walnuts/coconut flakes or replace them with seeds instead.

How to:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
2. In a medium size mixing bowl, combine the oats, walnuts, coconut flakes, cacao nibs, vanilla, and salt.
3. Next stir in the nut/seed butter and maple syrup. Stir until everything sticks together and is well combined.
4. On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, place the granola mixture down evenly – using a spatula to lay it down flat.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then stir the granola around and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color.
6. Remove from oven, stir in your choice of dried fruit, and then let it cool for at least 10 minutes.
7. ENJOY!

Makes approximately 4 – 4.5 cups

 

 

 

 It’s slightly sweet and peanut-buttery with pops of cacao crunch.

 

It’s a great snack or you can enjoy it with some milk or yogurt for breakfast. We love to use it as a topping for our smoothie bowls, too!

Once the granola is completely cooled, store it in glass jars or containers for optimal flavor.

Thanks for stopping by!