Are you tired of the same old boring breakfast? Looking for a delicious and healthy snack that will fuel your day without the sugar crash? Then you need to discover the amazing benefits of Cranberry Chia Granola! This superfood snack is packed with nutrients, delicious flavor, and offers incredible versatility. Let’s explore five irresistible reasons why Cranberry Chia Granola should be your new go-to healthy treat.
Ingredients List
This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of granola. Prepare for a delightful sensory experience!
- 3 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free oats for those with dietary restrictions)
- 1 cup chopped dried cranberries (consider adding a splash of orange juice to plump them up before use – a professional chef’s secret!)
- ½ cup chia seeds (a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids!)
- ¼ cup slivered almonds (or your favorite nuts – pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts work wonderfully)
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (for added crunch and zinc!)
- ¼ cup coconut flakes (unsweetened for lower sugar)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference – agave nectar is another great substitute)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (a touch of warmth and antioxidants!)
Timing
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes (That’s 20% faster than many similar granola recipes!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cranberries, chia seeds, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and coconut flakes. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Wet Ingredient Magic: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Bind & Bake: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. This step is crucial for even baking and texture – don’t overmix! Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye – overbaking can lead to burning!
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
Nutritional Information (per ¼ cup serving, approximate values)
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Fiber: 4-5 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams (mostly healthy unsaturated fats)
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient brands.)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a vegan option, ensure your maple syrup and coconut oil are certified vegan. Individuals with nut allergies can substitute sunflower seeds or hemp seeds for the almonds. If you prefer a lower-sugar granola, reduce the maple syrup and potentially swap it for a touch of stevia or another sugar substitute. For those seeking even more fiber, add some ground flaxseed or psyllium husk.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for a delicious and healthy snack? This Cranberry Chia Granola is perfect on its own, as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or mixed into trail mix for an energy boost on the go. For a truly personalized experience, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: Overmixing the wet and dry ingredients can lead to a dense, less crispy granola. Gentle mixing is key!
- Overbaking: Overbaking results in burnt granola. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches a golden brown color.
- Not letting it cool completely: Breaking the granola into clusters while it’s still warm creates small, uneven pieces and reduces its crispness.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store your Cranberry Chia Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to a month to maintain optimal freshness. Freezing is also an option for longer storage – simply portion it into freezer bags for easy access.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Chia Granola recipe is not just a delicious snack; it’s a superfood powerhouse packed with nutrients and flavor. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s the perfect recipe for busy individuals seeking a healthy and satisfying treat. Try it today and discover why it’s become a favorite amongst health-conscious individuals! Share your thoughts and creations in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes!
FAQs
Q: Can I use other dried fruits instead of cranberries?
A: Absolutely! Try blueberries, raisins, chopped apricots, or a mix of your favorites. Be mindful that different fruits have various moisture levels, potentially impacting the final texture.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and be mindful of any potential cross-contamination during preparation.
Q: Can I make this granola ahead of time?
A: Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Store the prepared granola in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Q: What are the benefits of adding chia seeds?
A: Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, contributing significantly to the nutritional value of this granola. They also add a lovely texture and subtle flavor.
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🥣 Cranberry Chia Granola
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut optional
- ⅓ cup chia seeds
- ½ cup chopped nuts almonds, pecans, or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- ⅓ cup coconut oil or neutral oil melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine oats, coconut, chia seeds, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients
- Stir in maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until everything is evenly coated.
Spread and Bake
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on the baking sheet. Press it down slightly for chunky clusters.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch carefully near the end to avoid burning.
Cool and Add Cranberries
- Let granola cool completely—it will crisp up as it cools. Then stir in dried cranberries.
Notes
Press the granola down before baking for chunkier texture Let cool undisturbed for 15 minutes before breaking into pieces Substitute raisins, dried cherries, or goji berries for variety
How Did You Like This Recipe? Share Your Thoughts!
Where have these been all my life?
Excellent dinner rolls. They are soft and irresistible and freeze well too.
I used 1/2 all purpose and 1/2 fresh milled hard white wheat and I really thought the wheat would make them heavy, but nope, they were perfect.
Absolutely superb
I learned a lot by making this sauce. Flavors were subtle and fragrant. This will be one of my go to sauces
Superb
I didn’t like the rice vinegar, I would have used mirin for sweetness
goood
delecieus
