Easy Apple Cinnamon Granola Recipe
Homemade apple cinnamon granola with fresh apple chunks, warm spices, and crunchy oat clusters. Perfect for breakfast or snacking with natural sweeteners and no artificial preservatives.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups old fashion rolled oats gluten-free if needed
- ½ cup walnuts chopped (can substitute pecans or almonds)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon use fresh for best flavor
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg fresh grated preferred
- ¼ teaspoon salt enhances all flavors
- ⅔ cup red apple diced (1 apple - Honeycrisp works perfectly)
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil key for crunchiness
- ¼ cup real maple syrup can substitute honey
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract use real vanilla only
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Peel, core, and dice apple into ¼-inch cubes. Add apple pieces to dry mixture and toss gently.
- Pour melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract over the oat mixture. Stir thoroughly until every oat piece is coated.
- Spread mixture evenly across prepared baking sheet. Press down firmly with a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Granola should be golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely undisturbed for at least 20 minutes before breaking into clusters.
Notes
Temperature control is key - 325°F prevents burning while ensuring proper caramelization
Don't skip pressing the mixture down before baking to create clusters
Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture, not quick oats
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Can be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags
For gluten-free version, ensure certified gluten-free oats are used
Don't skip pressing the mixture down before baking to create clusters
Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture, not quick oats
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Can be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags
For gluten-free version, ensure certified gluten-free oats are used
