How to Make Paleo-Friendly Granola without Sweeteners

How to Make Paleo-Friendly Granola without Sweeteners

Granola is a popular breakfast and snack food that’s often marketed as a healthy option. However, many store-bought granolas are loaded with added sugars or sweeteners, which might not fit into everyone’s diet, especially for those following a paleo lifestyle. The paleo diet focuses on eating whole, unprocessed foods similar to what our ancient ancestors might have eaten. This means no grains, no refined sugars, and no artificial sweeteners, making traditional granola a no-go. But don’t worry! You can still enjoy the crunchy goodness of granola by making your own paleo-friendly version at home, and you don’t even need any sweeteners! Here’s how:

Ingredients:

1. Nuts and Seeds: Choose a mix of your favorite nuts and seeds. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are all great choices. Nuts and seeds are not only delicious but they also provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

2. Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: These add a lovely texture and natural sweetness to your granola without the need for added sugars.

3. Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract are great for adding flavor without sweetness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices.

4. Oil: A bit of high-quality oil like coconut or avocado oil helps to bind the granola and gives it a nice crunch.

5. Optional: Dried Fruits: If you want to add a bit of natural sweetness, consider including some dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates. Be mindful of the quantities as fruits add natural sugars.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to around 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help to dry out the granola without burning it.

2. Chop the nuts. If you’re using larger nuts like almonds or pecans, give them a rough chop to make them more bite-sized. The seeds can be left whole.

3. Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine your chopped nuts, seeds, unsweetened coconut flakes, and any dried fruits (if using). Sprinkle in your chosen spices—cinnamon and nutmeg work well for a start—and give everything a good mix.

4. Add the oil. Pour in just enough oil to lightly coat your dry ingredients. A couple of tablespoons should do. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract at this point for extra flavor. Stir everything until it’s evenly mixed.

5. Spread the mixture. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread your granola mixture out in an even layer. The thinner you spread it, the crunchier it will get.

6. Bake with care. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the granola is lightly golden. It’s important to stir the granola every 5-10 minutes while it’s baking. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and you don’t end up with burnt spots.

7. Cool down. After removing your granola from the oven, let it cool completely on the tray. This cooling process helps it to get that wonderful crunchy texture.

8. Store properly. Once cooled, transfer your granola to an airtight container. It can be stored like this for several weeks, making it a great make-ahead option for quick and easy breakfasts or snacks.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy your homemade paleo granola in a bowl with some almond milk or coconut yogurt. It’s also perfect as a topping for smoothie bowls or just by the handful as a snack.

Conclusion:

Making your own paleo-friendly granola without sweeteners is not only easy but also allows you to customize your ingredients to your taste preferences. It’s a wholesome, nutritious option that satisfies the crunch craving without any of the processed sugars or grains found in conventional granola. Give it a try, and you might find yourself preferring your own homemade version over any store-bought alternatives. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked granola is a delightful bonus!