In the ever-evolving world of health and nutrition, one thing remains consistent: the desire for wholesome and delicious food options. If you value a healthy lifestyle, have dietary restrictions, or love experimenting with new and exciting recipes, then you’re in the right place! Today, we’re diving into a fantastic recipe that’s incredibly tasty, grain-free, and Paleo-friendly: Grain-Free Coconut Granola.
Homemade granola is simple to make and boasts an incredible flavor. It’s delightfully sweet and offers a satisfying crunch. But imagine elevating its taste with the rich essence of coconut – not just occasional shavings or chips, but a dominant coconut presence throughout.
Introducing the “Coconola” – our coconut-infused granola. It’s luxuriously delicious without being overly rich. It promises the perfect crispy texture and is blessed with large, delightful granola clusters – because when it comes to granola, the bigger the clusters, the better!
Serve it with nut milk or yogurt to kick-start your morning, layer it over berries with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a sweet treat, or enjoy it on its own. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll fall head over heels for!
Who is this Recipe For?
Whether you’re a long-time Paleo enthusiast, someone with grain sensitivities, or a health-conscious individual looking for a delightful snack or breakfast option, this recipe is perfect. The natural ingredients and the savory-sweet taste make this granola an ideal choice for those seeking nourishment without compromising on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Granola
- Dietary Flexibility: Grain-free and Paleo-friendly, catering to various dietary needs.
- Natural Sweetness: It offers a refined sugar-free treat with honey and vanilla.
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with seeds, nuts, and coconut, it’s a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pepitas pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup sesame seeds
- 1 cup raw sunflower seeds, not in shells
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1 cup sliced cashews
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3 teaspoons vanilla
- Dash of pink salt
- One tablespoon of coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup honey
- Optional: 1 scoop collagen peptides
How to Prepare
Prepping Your Workspace
Before you start, preheat the oven to 325F degrees. Make sure you have a baking sheet and parchment paper ready. Set aside a large bowl for mixing the ingredients and a smaller bowl for the coconut oil.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In your large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: pepitas, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, cashews, pecans, cinnamon, vanilla, and a dash of pink salt. Mix them until they’re well integrated.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, melt the coconut oil. Once melted, pour the oil and honey over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. If you’re adding collagen peptides (a great protein boost!), now’s the time to mix in a scoop. Stir everything together, ensuring all the dry ingredients are well-coated.
Baking
Spread the granola evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. Please give it a gentle stir, and then bake for 5 minutes or until it reaches a beautiful golden brown.
Storing
Once baked, allow the granola to cool completely. This will help it achieve that wonderful crunchy texture we all love in granola. Once cool, store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes and Tips
- Kitchen Equipment Needed: A baking sheet, parchment paper, a large mixing bowl, a smaller bowl, a spatula, or a spoon for mixing.
- Shortcuts & Variations: If you’re short on time, consider buying pre-chopped nuts. For a different taste, swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds.
- Storing Leftovers: This granola stores wonderfully in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy this granola with almond or coconut milk for a delightful breakfast bowl. Pair it with a chilled glass of green tea or a smoothie for a refreshing drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I add dried fruits? Yes! Add raisins, dried cranberries, or apricots for an extra flavor punch.
- I don’t have pink salt; can I use regular salt? Absolutely. Pink salt is used for its minerals and slight flavor differences, but regular salt works just as well in a pinch.
- How long does the granola stay fresh? Stored correctly in an airtight container, the granola can remain fresh for up to two weeks.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Crafting delicious, healthy treats like this Grain-Free Coconut Granola is more than just following a recipe; it’s an act of love and self-care. We hope this guide helps you create a delightful treat that satisfies your taste buds and meets your dietary needs.
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