Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 cup raw nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc. – roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or neutral-flavored oil)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins (add after baking)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit of your choice (cranberries, raisins, chopped dates, etc.)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Instructions
1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, quinoa, nuts, shredded coconut (if using), cinnamon, and salt.
3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Bake: Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
6. Cool and add mix-ins: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it apart into clusters and stir in your desired mix-ins (dried fruit, chocolate chips, etc.).
7. Store: Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your granola to avoid overbaking, which will make it too hard.
Customize: The great thing about granola is you can make it yours! Try adding seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds), other spices (ginger, nutmeg), and different nut combinations.
Make it a parfait: Layer the granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Enjoy your homemade crunchy quinoa granola!
