This oil-free granola is so delicious, made with wholesome ingredients, and full of crunchy clusters! The almond flavor is great as-is, though you can easily switch things up with a variety of spices, extracts, dried fruit, and other additions. Enjoy this vegan granola for breakfast and snacks anytime!
½cupbrown rice syrup - important for clusters; or sub maple syrup, if desired, and omit the maple syrup listed below.
2tablespoonsmaple syrup
¼cupraw almond butter - Or other nut/seed butter.
2teaspoonsvanilla extract
½teaspoonfine sea salt
½teaspoonground cinnamon
¼teaspoonalmond extract, optional
3cupsold fashioned rolled oats - certified gluten-free if needed.
1cupraw almonds or other nuts - use less for reduced-fat granola
¼cupraw pumpkin seeds or other
Instructions
Preheat oven to 320 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.
In a mixing bowl combine the syrups, almond butter, extracts, salt and cinnamon. Microwave in 10 to 15 second intervals to warm the syrup slightly. This makes it easier to stir and combine with the other ingredients.
Once the wet ingredients are fully combined, add the oats, nuts, and seeds to the bowl. Stir until everything is well coated with the syrup mixture.
Spread the granola onto the prepared pan, lightly pressing it down. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from oven, stir, and spread out on the pan again. Bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, keeping an eye on the bottom of the granola in the last few minutes to make sure it doesn't burn.
Let the granola cool on the pan for 15 minutes, then break into clusters. Once completely cool, transfer to an airtight container.
Notes
Variations/AdditionsOnce the granola is cool, add your favorite dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates. Flaked coconut is also delicious. Also have fun with the flavors:
pumpkin spice blend
garam masala
chai spice
ginger and cloves
a touch of cardamom
cocoa powder
different flavor extracts
Tree nut-free: Sunbutter and tahini make excellentgranola. And instead of almonds, use a mixture of your favorite seeds like pepitas, hemp, and sunflower seeds.Store oil-free granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerated for up to 1 month. Granola is also freezer-friendly.