The comforting aroma of toasty oats, warm cinnamon, and maple syrup wafts through the kitchen as this homemade granola bakes to golden perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple in your pantry—not just because it’s easy to make, but because it tastes so much better than store-bought.
Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch from roasted almonds and coconut, with the added superfood punch of chia seeds. Naturally sweetened and endlessly versatile, this granola is perfect for topping yogurt, sprinkling on smoothie bowls, or enjoying straight from the jar. It’s a feel-good, guilt-free snack that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 cups rolled oats
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1 cup almonds, chopped
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1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
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2 tablespoons chia seeds
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1/2 cup maple syrup
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1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine oats, almonds, coconut, and chia seeds.
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In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup and coconut oil until melted and well blended. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
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Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting. Watch closely in the final minutes to avoid burning.
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Let the granola cool completely—this helps it become nice and crunchy!
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal (per 1/2 cup) | Servings: 10 servings
There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade granola. Whether it’s the aroma of oats baking in the oven, the golden crunch of toasted almonds, or the gentle sweetness of maple syrup coating every cluster, this Crunchy Maple Almond Granola with Chia and Coconut recipe brings together everything you love in a wholesome breakfast or snack—minus the additives or refined sugars.
A Back-to-Basics Recipe That Delivers Big Flavor
This granola recipe is a celebration of simple, nutritious ingredients coming together to create a beautifully balanced flavor and texture. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, while almonds add crunch and protein. Chia seeds give a superfood boost, shredded coconut adds tropical flair, and maple syrup binds everything together with natural sweetness. The result? A crunchy, satisfying, slightly sweet granola that’s perfect for meal prep, gifting, or just snacking by the handful.
Unlike many store-bought varieties, this granola is gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. It’s also highly customizable—you can swap out the almonds for pecans or walnuts, add dried fruit after baking, or mix in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for even more texture and nutrition.
Why This Granola Recipe Stands Out
Here are just a few reasons this granola deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation:
1. Simple, Wholesome Ingredients
This recipe skips the preservatives, hydrogenated oils, and artificial sweeteners commonly found in commercial granola. With only eight pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll know exactly what’s going into your body.
2. Rich in Nutrients
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional benefits packed into this crunchy mix:
- Rolled oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full longer.
- Almonds provide healthy fats, vitamin E, and plant-based protein.
- Chia seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Coconut adds healthy fats that support energy production and brain function.
- Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that contains minerals like manganese and zinc—plus, it has a more complex, rich flavor compared to refined sugars.
3. Budget-Friendly and Waste-Reducing
Buying store-bought granola can get pricey—and often comes with excessive packaging. Making your own allows you to buy ingredients in bulk and reduce single-use plastic. You can even repurpose glass jars or tins for storing your granola or giving it as a gift.
4. Versatile and Customizable
This granola isn’t just for breakfast! Use it to:
- Top yogurt or smoothie bowls
- Add crunch to your morning oatmeal
- Sprinkle over baked apples or poached pears
- Serve with almond milk for a quick, satisfying cereal
- Pack into bags for a healthy snack on the go
Plus, you can adjust it to fit specific diets like vegan, gluten-free, or paleo (swap oats for grain-free substitutes).
Tips for Making the Best Granola Every Time
1. Watch the bake time.
Granola can go from golden to burnt quickly—especially toward the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it, and stir once halfway to ensure even browning.
2. Let it cool completely.
This is the secret to crunch. Once out of the oven, allow your granola to cool undisturbed on the baking sheet. This is when it hardens into delicious clusters.
3. Add extras after baking.
If you love raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or dried apricots in your granola, wait until it’s cooled to mix them in. This keeps them from drying out or melting.
4. Use parchment paper.
It makes clean-up easier and helps prevent sticking. It also ensures more even toasting during baking.
Meal Prep Magic
This granola stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to two weeks—though let’s be honest, it rarely lasts that long! It’s the kind of recipe that once you make it once, you’ll find yourself whipping up batch after batch. It’s also freezer-friendly—just store in a ziplock bag or freezer-safe container and defrost before using.
If you’re into meal prep or just looking for ways to simplify your mornings, this granola can be made in large batches and portioned out for quick, grab-and-go meals. It’s an easy way to make sure you start your day with something nourishing and energizing.
A Feel-Good Treat You Can Gift
Looking for a thoughtful, homemade gift idea? This granola is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or even teacher appreciation presents. Just fill a mason jar with a cute label and ribbon, and voilà—you’ve got a meaningful, delicious gift made with love.
Why Readers Love This Granola
Don’t just take our word for it—homemade granola is a favorite among health-conscious home cooks and food lovers alike. Here’s what people love about it:
- “Finally! A granola that’s crunchy and clumpy, just how I like it.”
- “I used pecans instead of almonds, and it turned out amazing!”
- “Perfect level of sweetness—tastes indulgent but still feels healthy.”
- “My kids devour this stuff—I feel so good knowing what’s in it.”
Final Thoughts
Making your own granola is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to upgrade your breakfast or snack game. This Crunchy Maple Almond Granola with Chia and Coconut is nourishing, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor and texture. It’s everything you love in a granola—only better, because it’s made by you.
So preheat that oven, grab your favorite mixing bowl, and start creating a batch that’s not just good for you, but good for the soul too.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a healthier breakfast option, a crunchy snack, or a versatile pantry staple, this Crunchy Maple Almond Granola with Chia and Coconut checks every box. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and filled with nutritious, whole-food ingredients you can feel good about. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought granola again.
From its satisfying crunch to its naturally sweet, toasty flavor, this homemade granola is a true kitchen staple that fits into any lifestyle—whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply trying to eat more mindfully. So grab your oats, stir up a batch, and enjoy the warm, nourishing comfort of something made with love right in your own kitchen.