Homemade Granola with Coconut Oil

Granola is one of those versatile recipes that feels like a big hug from the kitchen. Whether you're topping yogurt, snacking on it by the handful, or making your morning cereal a little more exciting, this granola is the way to go. With a balance of crunchy oats, coconut oil, and a mix of dried fruits, it’s packed with flavor and texture. Plus, it's easily customizable with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Make a batch today, and you'll have breakfast or snacks covered for the week!

Ingredients

• Old-fashioned oats: The base of any great granola! They toast up nicely and soak in all the delicious flavors. Feel free to use gluten-free oats if needed.
• Dried peaches: Adds a bit of sweetness and chew. If peaches aren't available, swap them out for dried apricots or unsweetened coconut flakes.
• Dehydrated berries: Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries are perfect here. You can also use dried cherries or cranberries.
• Curly dock seeds: A fun, foraged ingredient if you can find them! If not, chia or flax seeds make a great substitute.
• Coconut oil: Adds a light, tropical flavor and helps everything crisp up. Olive oil or melted butter can work if you're out of coconut oil.
• Crushed dehydrated pineapple: Brings a tropical sweetness. If pineapple isn’t your thing, try dried mango.
• Honey: Sweetens the granola naturally. You can swap this for maple syrup or agave if you prefer.
• Pepitas (pumpkin seeds): These add crunch and a nutty flavor. Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds work well, too.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, dried peaches, dehydrated berries, curly dock seeds, and pepitas. Stir them together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add the wet ingredients

Melt the coconut oil and stir it into the oat mixture. Add the honey, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread and bake

Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. The granola is done when it's golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5: Cool and mix in the fruit

Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once it's cooled, mix in the crushed dehydrated pineapple and store your granola in an airtight container.

Editor’s Tip: Let your granola cool completely before storing it. This helps it stay crunchy!

Recipe Variations

• Make it nutty: Swap the pepitas for chopped walnuts or pecans for a heartier, nuttier flavor.
• Add a chocolatey twist: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips once the granola has cooled for a sweet treat.
• Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the oat mixture before baking for a warm, comforting flavor.

How to Store Homemade Granola

Keep your granola fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay crunchy for up to two weeks. If you'd like to keep it longer, pop it in the freezer for up to three months.

How long does homemade granola last?

Stored at room temperature, your granola will stay fresh for up to two weeks in an airtight container. For extended storage, freeze it for up to three months.

Can you freeze homemade granola?

Yes! Granola freezes well. Just store it in a resealable bag or airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.

How do you reheat homemade granola?

While granola doesn’t need reheating, you can freshen it up by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 300°F for 5 to 10 minutes. This will bring back its crispness.

Recipe Tips

Can I add fresh fruit to granola? Absolutely! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even apples pair perfectly with this granola for a quick and easy breakfast.

How do I get clumpy granola? If you love those big clusters, don’t stir the granola as often while baking, and press it down lightly with a spatula halfway through baking.

What can I serve with granola? It’s perfect over yogurt, mixed into smoothie bowls, or sprinkled on top of oatmeal for extra crunch.