Name: Strawberry Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3 cups old fashioned oats; 1 cup flaked coconut; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/3 cup pepitas; 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted and slightly cooled); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries; 3/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When I think of breakfast that brings joy, Strawberry Granola often comes to mind. There’s something about the combination of crunchy oats, nutty flavors, and the sweetness of strawberries that makes my mornings feel special. I still remember the first time I made this granola; I was on a quest for a healthy yet delicious breakfast option. With a blend of wholesome ingredients, this recipe quickly became a favorite in my home. Each bite brings a little burst of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with yogurt or milk, and it’s perfect for on-the-go snacking as well.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to enhance the flavors, and every time I make it, I find myself smiling in anticipation. The smell of it baking in the oven fills the house with warmth, and I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment knowing I created something so satisfying. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to start the day right!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
230 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Strawberry Granola Is a Winner

It’s Packed With Nutrients

The beauty of Strawberry Granola lies in its ingredient profile. With a base of old fashioned oats, it provides a hearty serving of fiber, which is essential for digestion. Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavor, but for its nutritional benefits as well. You’ll get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the nuts and seeds, making this a breakfast that fuels your body.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out almonds for walnuts, or adjust the sweetness by adding less maple syrup. Feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to find your perfect combination. It’s a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch!

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re busy during the week, Strawberry Granola is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can whip up a large batch and store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for weeks, providing you with a quick breakfast or snack option whenever you need it.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love it, too! Making granola can be a fun family activity, and it’s a great way to involve children in the kitchen. They can help with pouring, mixing, and even breaking up the cooled granola into clusters. It’s a delightful way to teach them about healthy eating while spending quality time together.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe isn’t just for breakfast; it makes a fantastic topping for desserts or a crunchy element in salads. I often serve it at brunches or as a snack when friends come over. Everyone loves it, and it’s a wonderful way to impress guests with something homemade.

Deliciously Satisfying

The combination of textures in Strawberry Granola – crunchy oats, chewy strawberries, and creamy yogurt or milk – creates a satisfying experience that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a treat for your taste buds while also being a health-conscious choice.

What to Buy for Strawberry Granola

When it comes to making Strawberry Granola, the ingredients you choose are crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, and together they create a harmonious blend that’s both nutritious and delicious. The key players in this dish are the old fashioned oats and freeze-dried strawberries, which provide that signature crunch and fruity sweetness.

3 cups old fashioned oats: The base of your granola, these oats contribute fiber and essential nutrients, making each bowl a wholesome start to your day.
1 cup flaked coconut: Adds a delightful texture and sweet, tropical flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
1/2 cup chopped almonds: These nuts introduce a satisfying crunch along with healthy fats and protein.
1/2 cup chopped pecans: Pecans add richness and a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for enhancing the overall taste.
1/3 cup pepitas: These pumpkin seeds not only provide a nice crunch but are packed with nutrients, including magnesium and antioxidants.
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flaxseed meal helps bind the ingredients while boosting nutrition.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth to the flavor, elevating your granola to a new level.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled: A rich and healthy fat that helps bind the granola and gives it a chewy texture.
1/2 cup pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that caramelizes during baking, creating clusters of deliciousness.
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds aroma and enhances the sweetness of the granola.
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries: These strawberries provide concentrated flavor with every bite, making your granola fruity and fun.
3/4 cup white chocolate chips, optional: For those who like a hint of sweetness, chocolate chips make an excellent addition to this crunchy treat.

Putting Together Strawberry Granola

It’s time to get your hands a little messy and create some delicious Strawberry Granola. I promise you, the result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful snack or breakfast ready to go. Let’s dive in and make this tasty treat!

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Start by lining a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This step ensures that your granola won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine old fashioned oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until everything is well-coated and sticky. You want to make sure the oats and nuts are evenly mixed with the liquid ingredients to create that perfect granola texture.
Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, using a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down firmly. This helps the granola clump together during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the granola should be slightly golden brown when it’s done. Remember, do not stir it while it’s baking, as this allows for the formation of clusters.
About halfway through the baking time, rotate the pan for even cooking. This ensures that every piece gets that beautiful golden brown color.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan without stirring. This step is crucial for achieving crispy clusters.
When the granola has cooled, break it into clusters using your hands or a spatula. It should come apart easily but still hold its shape. This is where the magic happens!
Finally, stir in the freeze-dried strawberries and optional white chocolate chips, if using. Mix gently to avoid breaking the clusters. Now your Strawberry Granola is ready to enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking.
Cooling Time: Letting the granola cool completely helps it become crispy. Don’t rush this step!
Storage: Store the granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh for weeks. You can even freeze it for longer storage.
Mix-Ins: Experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize your granola to your liking.

Recipe Notes about Strawberry Granola

Before you start making your Strawberry Granola, here are a few tips to ensure success. These suggestions will help you make the most of your ingredients and achieve the best results.

Storage: Store your granola in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and crunch. You can keep it on your countertop for about two weeks.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Portion out your granola and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve your granola over yogurt or with your favorite milk for a delicious breakfast. It also makes a great topping for smoothie bowls!
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavor add-ins, such as dried cranberries or chia seeds, to give your granola a unique twist.
Serving Size: Adjust the serving size based on your preference. Granola is very filling, so a little goes a long way!

Serving Ideas for Strawberry Granola

There are so many ways to enjoy Strawberry Granola! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Breakfast Bowls: Serve it over a bowl of creamy yogurt topped with fresh fruits like bananas or blueberries.
Snack Time: Enjoy it straight out of the jar as a healthy snack option. It’s perfect for that mid-afternoon crunch!
Brunch Parties: Bring it to your next brunch gathering. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit and honey.
Seasonal Treat: Use it as a topping for seasonal desserts like ice cream or baked fruit in the summer.
Gift Idea: Package some granola in a jar and gift it to friends or family. It makes a thoughtful present for any occasion!
Lunchbox Treat: Add a small portion to lunchboxes as a sweet treat alongside sandwiches or salads.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make Strawberry Granola gluten-free, simply ensure that the old fashioned oats you use are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free oats, and this will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavors without any gluten. Just be sure to check the packaging to confirm that there is no cross-contamination during the processing.

Store your Strawberry Granola in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its freshness and crunchiness for about two weeks. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag, where it can last up to three months without losing flavor or texture. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Yes, you can certainly add other fruits! While freeze-dried strawberries are a star ingredient in Strawberry Granola, feel free to mix in other dried fruits such as cranberries, blueberries, or even banana chips. Just keep in mind that the moisture content from fresh fruit is different, which may alter the texture of the granola. For best results, stick with dried fruits.

Definitely! You can reduce the amount of maple syrup in your Strawberry Granola or substitute it with a sugar-free syrup or honey. You can also enhance the sweetness with natural flavors like cinnamon or use more freeze-dried strawberries to add sweetness without extra sugar. Just remember, adjusting the sugar may alter the texture slightly, but it will still be tasty!

Conclusion

In summary, Strawberry Granola stands out as a delightful and nutritious option for breakfast or snacks. Its combination of crunchy oats and sweet flavors makes it a must-try recipe. I encourage you to whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness that it brings. You won’t regret it, so go ahead and treat yourself to this healthy homemade granola today!

Strawberry Granola

The perfect balance of crunchy oats and sweet strawberries, this Strawberry Granola is a delightful and nutritious treat. Ideal for breakfast or a snack, it’s made with wholesome ingredients for a delicious and satisfying experience. Make it today and enjoy the goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 cups old fashioned oats
1 cup flaked coconut
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup pepitas
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup coconut oil melted and slightly cooled
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
3/4 cup white chocolate chips optional

Equipment

Frying pan
Wooden Spoon
Oven
Chef's Knife
Mixing Bowl
Baking Sheet

Method

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Start by lining a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This step ensures that your granola won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine old fashioned oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until everything is well-coated and sticky. You want to make sure the oats and nuts are evenly mixed with the liquid ingredients to create that perfect granola texture.
Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, using a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down firmly. This helps the granola clump together during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the granola should be slightly golden brown when it’s done. Remember, do not stir it while it’s baking, as this allows for the formation of clusters.
About halfway through the baking time, rotate the pan for even cooking. This ensures that every piece gets that beautiful golden brown color.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan without stirring. This step is crucial for achieving crispy clusters.
When the granola has cooled, break it into clusters using your hands or a spatula. It should come apart easily but still hold its shape. This is where the magic happens!
Finally, stir in the freeze-dried strawberries and optional white chocolate chips, if using. Mix gently to avoid breaking the clusters. Now your Strawberry Granola is ready to enjoy!

Notes

Before you start making your Strawberry Granola, here are a few tips to ensure success. These suggestions will help you make the most of your ingredients and achieve the best results.

Storage: Store your granola in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and crunch. You can keep it on your countertop for about two weeks.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Portion out your granola and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve your granola over yogurt or with your favorite milk for a delicious breakfast. It also makes a great topping for smoothie bowls!
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavor add-ins, such as dried cranberries or chia seeds, to give your granola a unique twist.
Serving Size: Adjust the serving size based on your preference. Granola is very filling, so a little goes a long way!