Nut Free Granola

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: corn syrup

Agave syrup is lower on the glycemic index.

dried fruit

🥗Healthier: fresh fruit

💰Cheaper: coconut chips

Fresh fruit offers more nutrients and less sugar.

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spraying with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

In a large bowl, stir together the oats and wheat germ.

In a small saucepan, whisk together the oil, honey, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Once the honey mixture boils, remove the pan from the heat. Pour the honey mixture over the oats and stir until the oats are completely coated.

Add the cranberries and coconut; stir to combine. Spread the oat mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. I like to use a wooden spoon to gently press together clumps of the oats to get those great crunchy clusters at the end!

Bake until golden brown, toasted, and fragrant, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove the pan from the oven, press the oats gently again with a wooden spoon to form those clusters, and allow to cool completely (it will get crispier and crunchier as it cools).

Once cool, transfer the granola to an airtight container.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary