Crunchy Cashew Walnut Granola with Dried Cranberries

This Crunchy Cashew Walnut Granola recipe is an ideal choice for a quick and nutritious breakfast or a satisfying snack any time of day. With its simple preparation and irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this crunchy cashew-walnut granola with dried cranberries is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed with yogurt, as a topping for smoothie bowls, or simply on its own, this homemade granola offers a delicious way to start your day or refuel in between meals.

Ingredients for Crunchy Cashew Walnut Granola

• 3 cups whole oat flakes
• 1 cup raw cashews (use 1/2 or 3/4 cup, depending on preference)
• 1 cup raw walnuts (use 1/2 or 3/4 cup, depending on preference)
• 1/3 cup raw sunflower seeds
• 3 Tbsp maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 to 1 cup dried cranberries

Cooking Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the oat flakes, cashews, walnuts, and sunflower seeds.
• In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
• Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. The granola should be golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely. Once cool, stir in the dried cranberries.
• Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Easy Granola Recipe

Tips & Variations

Tips:

• Even Coating: Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture to ensure uniform baking and flavor.
• Stirring: Stir the granola halfway through baking to prevent burning and ensure an even golden brown color.
• Cooling: Allow the granola to cool completely before storing it. This helps it achieve maximum crunchiness.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, you can freeze the granola in a sealed container for up to three months.

Variations:

• Different Nuts: Substitute or add other nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts.
• Seeds: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds for extra nutrition.
• Spices: Enhance the flavor with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cardamom.
• Sweeteners: Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
• Fruit Add-Ins: Mix in other dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or chopped dates.
• Chocolate: Add dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a sweet twist after the granola has cooled.
• Coconut: Include shredded coconut for an additional layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• With Yogurt: Serve a generous spoonful over creamy Greek yogurt or your favorite dairy-free alternative. Drizzle with a touch of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
• With Milk: Serve cashew walnut granola with homemade almond milk or milk of your choice.
• As a Breakfast Bowl: Create a wholesome breakfast bowl by layering the granola with fresh berries, sliced bananas, and a dollop of almond butter or yogurt.
• Smoothie Topping: Sprinkle the granola on top of your favorite smoothie for added texture and crunch. Try my Green Smoothie to Boost Your Energy.
• On Oatmeal: Elevate a warm bowl of oatmeal by sprinkling a handful of granola on top.
• Trail Mix: Mix the crunchy cashew walnut granola with nuts, seeds, and a handful of dark chocolate chips for a homemade trail mix that’s perfect for hiking, road trips, or a quick snack on the go.
• Ice Cream Sundae: Use the granola as a crunchy topping for ice cream sundaes.
• Snack on Its Own: Of course, you can always enjoy this granola straight out of the jar as a wholesome snack.I usually pack it in my son’s lunchbox.

Experiment with these serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious Crunchy Cashew Walnut Granola with Dried Cranberries!

FAQ

Q1. Can I use different nuts in this granola recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the nuts to your liking. Almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts are great alternatives or additions to cashews and walnuts.

Q2. How long does this granola stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this granola stays fresh for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, you can freeze it for up to three months.

Q3. Can I adjust the sweetness of the granola? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of maple syrup or choose a different sweetener like honey or agave nectar to suit your taste preferences.

Q4. How can I achieve maximum crunchiness? Ensure the granola is spread evenly on the baking sheet and stir it halfway through baking. Let it cool completely before storing to maintain its crunchiness.

Q5. How can I prevent the granola from burning? Keep an eye on the granola towards the end of baking and stir it gently every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Lowering the oven temperature slightly can also help prevent burning.

Q6. Can I add spices to this granola? Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cardamom can add a delicious flavor boost to this granola recipe. Adjust the amount to your preference.

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