Description

This homemade apple cinnamon granola is a deliciously crunchy and naturally sweetened breakfast or snack option. Featuring oats toasted to perfection with olive oil and pure maple syrup, and infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors, it’s studded with chewy dried apples, crunchy pecans, coconut flakes, and tart dried cranberries. Perfect for topping yogurt, enjoying with milk, or eating by the handful, this granola combines wholesome ingredients and easy preparation for a healthy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

⅓ cup olive oil
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
¼ tablespoon packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats (gluten-free if needed)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt

Add-ins

¾ cup dried apples, cut into bite-sized pieces
¾ cup raw pecans, pieces
½ cup coconut flakes (large)
½ cup dried cranberries

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the granola.
Make the Base: In a small to medium-sized skillet or saucepan, combine the olive oil, pure maple syrup, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to boil. Lower the heat to low, continue stirring for one more minute, then remove from heat. Stir in cinnamon, vanilla, and salt to infuse the base with warm flavor.
Mix with Oats: In a large bowl, pour the prepared syrup mixture over the old-fashioned oats. Toss thoroughly to ensure the oats are evenly coated. Add the dried apples, coconut flakes, and pecans to the bowl, mixing well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
Bake the Granola: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes until golden and toasted. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature.
Break Into Pieces and Add Cranberries: Once cooled, break the granola into large clusters or pieces as desired. Stir in the dried cranberries evenly. Your homemade apple cinnamon granola is ready to enjoy!

Notes

Using old-fashioned oats ensures a perfect crunchy texture; quick oats may become too soft.
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing if desired.
Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
You can substitute dried apples with dried pears or apricots for a different fruity note.
Adjust sweetness by altering the amount of maple syrup or sugar according to your preference.