Imagine waking up to a breakfast that's not just delicious, but a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your taste buds. This Dried Cherry and Coconut Granola is more than just a recipe—it's a morning revelation that combines the wholesome crunch of toasted oats, the richness of nuts, and the sweet-tart burst of dried cherries. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone who simply loves a spectacular breakfast, this granola will elevate your morning routine from mundane to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your granola cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped nuts, 1/2 cup of dried cherries, and 1/2 cup of shredded coconut. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of oil (you can use coconut oil or any neutral oil). Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the honey and oil mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Add a pinch of salt to taste. Stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the honey and oil mixture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the granola mixture evenly on the baking sheet, pressing it down slightly to help it clump together.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want it to be golden brown.
- Once the granola is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will harden as it cools.
- Once cooled, break the granola into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Enjoy your Dried Cherry and Coconut Granola as a snack, breakfast, or topping for yogurt!
Tips
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and crunch. Quick oats can make your granola too soft.
- Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure even golden-brown coloration and prevent burning.
- Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This is crucial for forming those delightful, crispy clusters.
- Experiment with different nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts to customize your flavor profile.
- Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain maximum freshness and crispness.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the honey-oil mixture before coating the dry ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
