Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Granola Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this gluten-free granola recipe because it’s not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to make.
I whip it up in no time, and it fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, and I can customize it with my favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Plus, knowing it’s gluten-free gives me peace of mind. I love that I can enjoy it straight from the jar or sprinkled over yogurt.
Trust me, once you try this granola, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients of Gluten Free Granola
When it comes to making gluten-free granola, having the right ingredients on hand is key. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, and you might already have a lot of these items in your pantry. It’s all about combining wholesome oats, crunchy nuts, and a touch of sweetness to create a snack that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy.
Plus, you can tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite mix-ins. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful breakfast treat.
Ingredients for Gluten Free Granola
- 4 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut (shredded or flaked)
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted, refined) or canola oil
- 1/3 cup agave nectar
Now, let’s chat a bit about the ingredients. First off, you might be wondering why gluten-free oats are a must. Well, oats can often be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing, so it’s best to stick with the certified gluten-free variety.
And the coconut? Oh, it adds such a lovely chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices. If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to swap them out for your preferred nuts or even seeds.
The beauty of granola is that it’s super versatile. Just remember, whatever you choose, make sure it complements those warm spices for a cozy, comforting granola that’s sure to impress.
How to Make Gluten Free Granola
Making gluten-free granola is like crafting your own little bowl of happiness. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. While that’s warming up, grab a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This little step is essential, people. It keeps your granola from sticking and makes for an easier cleanup—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not scrubbing baked-on oats off your pan.
Now, let’s whip up that glorious mixture. In a medium bowl, combine 4 cups of gluten-free oats, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Can you smell that? It’s like a cozy hug in your kitchen. Toss in 1 1/2 cups of unsweetened coconut and 1 cup of chopped pecans. Mix everything together, letting those flavors mingle like old friends.
Next, add in 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil (or canola oil if that’s your jam) and 1/3 cup of agave nectar. Give it a good toss until everything is coated nicely; the oats should glisten just a bit.
Once your mixture is ready, pour it onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, but don’t worry about it looking perfect; it’s granola, not a Michelin-star dish. Pop it into the oven for the first 15 minutes, then take a moment to stir it around. This helps it bake evenly (and gives you a little workout too).
After stirring, bake it for another 10-15 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden brown. When you pull it out of the oven, let it cool before diving in. That’s the hardest part, waiting for it to cool—so tempting, right? But just think of the crunchy goodness waiting for you. Enjoy your homemade gluten-free granola!
Gluten Free Granola Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delightful batch of gluten-free granola, you might find yourself wanting to experiment a bit.
I love switching up the nuts and seeds—try almonds or sunflower seeds for a different crunch. If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to substitute with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
For sweetness, maple syrup works beautifully in place of agave nectar. And don’t forget about spices! A dash of nutmeg or vanilla extract can take your granola to the next level.
The options are endless, so let your taste buds guide you in creating your perfect blend!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your gluten-free granola turns out perfectly every time, I recommend keeping a close eye on it while it bakes. The granola can quickly go from golden brown to burnt, so check it often.
If you prefer clumpier granola, let it cool completely before breaking it apart. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
You can also experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize flavors. Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less agave nectar based on your taste. Enjoy the crunchy goodness!