If you are craving a crunchy, flavorful snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe is exactly what you need. Blending crisp dried apples with the comforting spices of cinnamon and sweet notes from pure maple syrup, the granola delivers the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors. It’s a versatile treat that brightens up breakfasts, snacks, or even dessert toppings with its golden toasted oats, toasted coconut, and pecan pieces, bringing both texture and wholesome goodness to your kitchen. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a staple for any granola lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple but pack a punch of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays an important role, whether it’s adding sweetness, crunch, or that aromatic warmth that makes this granola unforgettable.
- ⅓ cup olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base that helps the granola toast evenly and adds a subtle richness.
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that binds the oats and ingredients while infusing a hint of caramel flavor.
- ¼ Tbsp. packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Enhances the maple syrup’s depth with a mellow molasses undertone.
- 2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats (gluten-free if needed): The hearty foundation of your granola packed with fiber and texture.
- 1 tsp. cinnamon: The signature spice giving the granola its warm, cozy vibe.
- 1 tsp. vanilla: Adds a sweet, fragrant note that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- ¼ tsp. salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- ¾ cup dried apples (bite-sized pieces): Juicy, chewy pockets of fruity goodness that bring classic apple crisp charm.
- ¾ cup pecans (raw, pieces): Crunchy nut pieces for a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor.
- ½ cup coconut (large flakes): Adds a tropical touch and additional texture contrast.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: Swirls of tart sweetness mixed in at the end to brighten each bite.
How to Make Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Flavor Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking. Next, create the delicious flavor base by combining olive oil, pure maple syrup, and brown sugar in a skillet over medium heat. Let it gently bubble, stirring occasionally for 2 to 3 minutes. This warming step helps the sugar dissolve completely and the flavors meld together. Lower the heat and stir for another minute before taking the mixture off the stove. Right away, mix in cinnamon, vanilla, and salt to infuse those signature aromatic notes throughout your granola.
Step 2: Toss with Oats and Mix-Ins
Transfer your oats into a large mixing bowl and pour the warm syrup mixture over them. Toss everything well so each oat gets beautifully coated with that sweet, spiced glaze. Then fold in the dried apples, coconut flakes, and pecan pieces, making sure they are evenly distributed. This step ensures every bite will have a delightful variety of texture and flavors—crispy, chewy, nutty, and sweet all at once.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup. Spread out the granola mixture in an even layer so it bakes evenly. Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks—the edges will turn a gorgeous golden brown and fill your kitchen with the most incredible aroma. When done, remove from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the sheet before moving on.
Step 4: Add Cranberries and Break Apart
Once the granola has cooled to room temperature, gently break it into large clusters with your hands or a spatula. These chunks create the satisfying crunch that makes granola so fun to eat. Finally, toss in dried cranberries to add a burst of tartness that perfectly complements the sweetness and warmth from the cinnamon and apples. Now, your homemade masterpiece is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a few fresh apple slices on top can enhance the granola’s natural flavors and add visual appeal. Toasted nuts or a drizzle of honey make excellent finishing touches for a little extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This granola shines alongside creamy Greek yogurt or your favorite plant-based yogurt alternatives. It’s also fantastic layered with fresh berries, or even as a crunchy topping for smoothies or oatmeal bowls.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe in small mason jars or clear glass bowls for beautiful, rustic charm. Layer it with yogurt and fruit for parfaits that impress, or pack it in snack bags for on-the-go treats that stay fresh and tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your granola fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This ensures it stays crunchy and flavorful without going stale.
Freezing
If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze the granola in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
You can quickly revive the crunch by warming the granola in a low oven (300°F) for 5-7 minutes or giving it a brief toast in a dry skillet. This helps refresh those toasted flavors and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Absolutely! Light coconut oil or avocado oil works well too. Just choose one with a mild flavor so it doesn’t overpower the cinnamon and apple.
Is it possible to make this granola nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to keep the crunchy texture without nuts.
How do I prevent the granola from sticking together too much?
Allowing the granola to cool completely before breaking it apart is key. Additionally, spreading it out thinly and stirring it halfway through baking helps create cluster-sized pieces instead of one big sheet.
Can I add fresh apples instead of dried?
Fresh apples have too much moisture for granola and may cause sogginess. Drying apples beforehand or using dried apples is best for that perfect chewy texture.
What’s the best way to enjoy this granola for breakfast?
Try it over a bowl of yogurt or mixed into hot oatmeal. Add fresh fruit and a splash of milk or plant-based milk for a filling and nourishing start to your day.
Final Thoughts
Once you whip up this Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to snacks and breakfast companions. Its blend of warmth, sweetness, and crunch is pure comfort in every bite. Plus, knowing exactly what’s inside your granola—that it’s crafted with love and wholesome ingredients—makes it all the more satisfying. So, tie on your apron and give this recipe a try; I promise it will steal your heart and your taste buds!
Print
Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Apple Cinnamon Granola is a delightful and healthy snack featuring oats, dried apples, pecans, and a sweet cinnamon maple glaze. Perfectly baked to a crunchy golden finish, this granola combines wholesome ingredients with warm spices, making it ideal for breakfast or a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ Tbsp packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 tsp vanilla
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-Ins
- ¾ cup dried apples (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ¾ cup pecans (raw, pieces)
- ½ cup coconut (large flakes)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the granola evenly.
- Make the Base: In a small to medium skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the olive oil, pure maple syrup, and brown sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture begins to boil, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat and stir for another minute, then remove from heat. Stir in cinnamon, vanilla, and salt to create the flavorful granola syrup.
- Mix with Oats: Transfer the syrup to a large mixing bowl with the oats. Toss thoroughly to coat all oats with the syrup. Add the dried apples, coconut flakes, and pecans, stirring until evenly combined for a balanced texture and flavor.
- Bake the Granola: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly spread the coated granola mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, stirring once halfway if desired for even browning. Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely to room temperature, which will help it crisp up.
- Break Into Pieces: When cooled, break the granola into large clusters and stir in dried cranberries. The granola is now ready to enjoy as a snack, topping for yogurt, or with milk.
Notes
- Use gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free version.
- For a sweeter granola, increase the brown sugar or maple syrup slightly.
- To enhance crunchiness, you may spread the granola thinner or bake an additional 5 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Add other nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds for variety.
