DIY Granola Clusters are an easy, economical yogurt topper or snack!
During the week, I eat high-protein yogurt with fresh fruit almost every morning for breakfast. It’s portable, filling, and healthier than the muffins or pastries I see at the local coffee shop when I stop in for my morning joe! I used to buy granola clusters to sprinkle on top to add a little crunch and texture to my breakfast yogurt, but that gets expensive, and many of the store-bought brands are laden with sugar. Once I started making my own granola clusters, I realized I would never go back to store-bought. Homemade granola clusters are an easy, make-ahead alternative.
When you make your own granola clusters, you can customize the sweetness, density, and flavors to make it just right. While honey is a great binder to help create the delicious clumps, you can substitute it with agave nectar, stevia, or, for a vegan version, maple syrup. If you like a little dried fruit, toss in a cup of raisins or dried cranberries. Personally, I like it as is since I eat fresh or frozen fruit with it in my yogurt.
You will love having these tasty granola clusters on hand. They are just-right sweet, have a satisfying crunch (especially with the walnuts), and the cozy spices baked in make for a classic granola taste. While I love using them on my breakfast yogurt, they also make a great snack. Pick up a handful on your way out the door as you start your soccer carpool or toss a baggie into a packed lunch. You can make a big batch and freeze part of it so you have it at the ready.
Texture tip
For medium-to-large granola clusters, follow the directions below exactly. If you want the clusters a bit smaller, there’s an easy way to get that. During the cook time, simply stir the baking granola every 10 minutes or so. I don’t even take the pan out of the oven when stirring; I use a long-handled spatula and give the granola just a gentle stir. This easy step will ensure that you get bite-sized granola clusters.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. One of the great things about this recipe is that the granola clusters will keep this way for up to 2 weeks! If you make a big batch and want to keep some for longer, consider freezing it. Simply flash-freeze the clusters on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes and then pack the granola clusters into a resealable freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when set out at room temperature.
Serving suggestions
Granola clusters are versatile; they work especially well at breakfast. Sprinkle a handful on top of a Yogurt Parfait or the quick-and-tasty Microwave Oatmeal when you want a hot breakfast. Enjoy them as a quick snack during the day or even with dessert! For instance, granola clusters are delicious on top of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream or Baked Apples.
Granola Clusters
Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch dried nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the walnuts and shredded coconut.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the canola oil, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit more honey or oil until all the ingredients are evenly covered.
- Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press lightly with a spatula to form it into a single layer. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely. When cool, break into clusters by hand. Enjoy as a snack or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Leave a Comment