This DIY Granola Clusters Recipe features a wholesome mix of oats, nuts, and seeds held together with maple syrup.
Everything tastes better in cluster form.
Is it true? Dunno. But if we limited our sample size to just this recipe for granola clusters, it is indubitably true! Plus, Clusters make on-the-go eating so much easier (not to mention tidier).
How many times have I scooped loose granola into a Ziploc bag and headed out the door? I often reach my hand into the bag and fumble with the bits and pieces inside. By the time my hand makes it to my mouth, half the granola has found its way onto my clothes.
These clusters are where it’s at. Whip up a batch and see for yourself—you won’t need to drop oats down your shirt ever again!
Are Granola Clusters Healthy?
All the ingredients are natural, so no added sugars or unwanted ingredients will find their way into the mix. With these ingredients, you’ve got fiber, carbs, and protein—everything you could want in a snack. It’s ideal for those on vegan and gluten-free (ensure the oats are gluten-free) diets.
How Can I Tweak This Recipe?
Variety is the spice of life! Go ahead and tweak this recipe with some of these delicious suggestions. For a touch of natural sweetness and chewiness, try adding dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, chopped dates, pineapple, or apricots. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, mix in mini chocolate chips or cocoa nibs, or drizzle the finished clusters with a bit of melted dark chocolate and finish with sea salt flakes.
You can also switch up the nuts for a new flavor profile. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, or cashews all work beautifully well in this recipe. Consider adding other spices such as a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ground ginger for added warmth. Looking for a tropical flair? Stir in some shredded coconut or coconut flakes—toast them first for an extra layer of nutty, caramelized goodness. And don’t forget those healthy seeds! Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds add crunch and a nutritional boost to these delicious clusters.
Bear in mind that these changes may require adding more olive oil and maple syrup in order for the mixture to stick.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Let the clusters cool completely, then store them in Ziploc bags for portability or in an airtight container. You can keep clusters at room temperature or store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Before taking a bite, let them sit at room temperature until they reach your preferred temp and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Granola clusters are an excellent snack or breakfast on their own, but they pair perfectly with yogurt and fruit. Or, for something fancy, add it to your next Bionicos (Mexican Fruit Bowls). It also makes for a delicious topping over Blended Overnight Oats.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup peanuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 1/3 cup flax seeds
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 vanilla pod
Instructions
- Set the oven to 325°F. In a bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped peanuts, ground cinnamon, chia seeds, flax seeds, and salt.
- Add the olive oil, maple syrup, and vanilla pod seeds. Mix all the ingredients until they are slightly sticky.
- Separate the mixture into small clusters, Place on a baking tray greased with oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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