Coconut Maple Walnut Granola

Introduction

Coconut Maple Walnut Granola is a delicious and crunchy treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The natural sweetness of maple syrup blends harmoniously with the tropical coconut, creating a flavor-packed granola. The toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch, making this granola a deliciously wholesome option for those seeking something sweet yet nourishing. Whether you sprinkle it over yogurt, enjoy it with milk, or snack on it by the handful, this granola offers a great balance of sweetness, crunch, and nutrition.

I remember the first time I made it for a cozy weekend morning. The house smelled so inviting with the warm maple and coconut aromas filling the air, and my family couldn’t wait to dive in. What’s great about this granola is how versatile it is—you can adjust the sweetness or add different nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to make it your own. The walnut crunch pairs perfectly with the soft coconut, creating a satisfying combination. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a quick and nourishing snack, this granola is always a winner!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast
• Healthy snacks
• Yogurt toppings
• Meal prep
• Granola lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Coconut Maple Walnut Granola will become a favorite in your pantry:

• Natural Sweetness: The maple syrup provides a rich, natural sweetness that’s not overpowering, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
• Crispy Texture: The granola bakes to a perfect crisp, offering the perfect balance of crunch in every bite.
• Nutty Flavor: The toasted walnuts add an earthy, nutty richness that complements the sweetness of the coconut and maple.
• Simple and Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like oats, coconut, and walnuts, this granola is free from artificial additives.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding your favorite dried fruits, seeds, or other nuts.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Coconut Maple Walnut Granola:

For the Granola:

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Ingredient Highlights

• Oats: Provide the perfect base for granola, offering fiber and a satisfying texture.
• Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a tropical flavor and a subtle chewiness to the granola.
• Walnuts: These nuts are rich in healthy fats and add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the coconut and walnuts.
• Coconut Oil: Used to bind the granola and give it a lightly toasted texture.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Coconut Maple Walnut Granola:

Prepare the Granola:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
4. Spread the Granola: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Press it down gently with a spatula to ensure it bakes in an even layer.

Bake the Granola:

5. Bake the Granola: Bake the granola in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it toward the end, as granola can burn quickly.
6. Cool the Granola: Once the granola is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to crisp up as it cools.

Store and Serve:

7. Store the Granola: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container or jar for storage. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Coconut Maple Walnut Granola with yogurt, milk, or as a snack on its own. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve

Coconut Maple Walnut Granola is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• With Yogurt: Top a bowl of Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
• As a Cereal: Pour your favorite milk over the granola for a satisfying cereal alternative.
• In Smoothies: Add a sprinkle of granola on top of your smoothie for extra crunch and texture.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it by the handful as a wholesome snack when you’re craving something sweet and crunchy.
• Topped with Fruit: Pair with fresh or dried fruit to enhance the natural sweetness and flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Coconut Maple Walnut Granola turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your granola while it’s baking. If it gets too dark too quickly, lower the temperature slightly to avoid burning.
• Add Extras: Feel free to add extra nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize your granola according to your preferences.
• Cool Completely: Let the granola cool completely before storing it. This helps it crisp up and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Use Unsweetened Coconut: For the best flavor balance, use unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid making the granola too sweet.
• Double the Recipe: If you love granola, double the recipe and store the extra batch in a sealed container for later use.

Recipe Variations

Here are some variations you can try for Coconut Maple Walnut Granola:

• Almond Coconut Granola: Swap walnuts for sliced almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Cranberry Coconut Granola: Add dried cranberries after baking for a sweet-tart contrast.
• Chia Seed Granola: Add a couple of tablespoons of chia seeds for added fiber and nutrition.
• Chocolate Chip Granola: Stir in some dark chocolate chips after baking for a touch of indulgence.
• Pumpkin Spice Granola: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-inspired twist.
• Coconut Almond Granola: Add sliced almonds along with the coconut for a nutty crunch.
• Maple Pecan Granola: Substitute the walnuts with pecans for a buttery, rich flavor.
• Coconut Cashew Granola: Swap out walnuts for cashews for a slightly softer crunch and creamy flavor.
• Vegan Coconut Granola: Ensure the coconut oil is vegan-friendly and use maple syrup to keep the recipe plant-based.
• Gluten-Free Granola: Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe entirely gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Coconut Maple Walnut Granola can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag and thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it to maintain freshness.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Coconut Maple Walnut Granola easier:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl to mix the dry ingredients and a smaller bowl for the wet ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for spreading the granola evenly during baking.
• Spatula: A spatula is useful for pressing the granola mixture into the baking sheet and for stirring during the baking process.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking.
• Airtight Container: Store your granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of nut?
   Yes, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or cashews, depending on your preference.
2. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
   Yes, honey is a great substitute for maple syrup, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
3. Can I make this granola without coconut?
   Yes, if you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it and replace it with additional oats or nuts for a different flavor.
4. Can I add dried fruit to this recipe?
   Yes, dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or apricots can be added after baking for a sweet and chewy addition.
5. Can I make this recipe without coconut oil?
   Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with any neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil.

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Conclusion

Coconut Maple Walnut Granola is a simple, tasty, and healthy homemade snack or breakfast option. With the perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and nutty flavors, this granola makes an excellent addition to your pantry. Whether you enjoy it as a topping for yogurt, a cereal alternative, or a snack on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple.

This homemade granola is easy to prepare and provides a wholesome, satisfying bite that’s perfect for busy mornings or afternoon cravings. The combination of coconut, maple syrup, and walnuts adds both flavor and nutrition, making it a snack you can feel good about.

I’d love to see how your Coconut Maple Walnut Granola turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Enjoy every crunchy bite!