How to Make Paleo-Friendly Granola for Breakfast
If you’re trying to eat healthier or follow a Paleo diet, breakfast can sometimes feel like the trickiest meal of the day. Many traditional breakfast foods like cereal, toast, and oatmeal are off-limits on a Paleo plan because they’re made from grains. However, there’s good news! With a bit of creativity, you can still enjoy a crunchy, tasty, and convenient breakfast option: Paleo-friendly granola.
Granola is typically a mixture of oats, nuts, sweeteners, and sometimes dried fruits, all baked until crunchy. For a Paleo version, we simply swap out the oats for more nuts and seeds, making it a nutrient-dense start to your day. Making your Paleo granola at home is easy, customizable according to your taste preferences, and a great make-ahead breakfast option. Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of delicious, homemade Paleo granola.
Ingredients:
The beauty of homemade granola is that you can pick and choose what goes into it. Here’s a basic template, but feel free to adjust according to your tastes and what you have available:
- 1 cup of almonds
- 1 cup of pecans
- 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup (for strictly Paleo, opt for honey as some consider maple syrup a grey area)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, dried fruits (like raisins or chopped dates), and anything else you enjoy.
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Chop the nuts. This step is optional and depends on how chunky you like your granola. Use a food processor for a quick pulse or two or do it the old-school way with a knife. Aim for a rough chop; the variety in texture makes the granola fun to eat.
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Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, toss the chopped nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, and any dry spices you’re using. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
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Combine the wet ingredients. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure it’s well combined.
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Mix wet and dry. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything together, ensuring all the dry parts are coated nicely. This step is crucial for getting those clumps that make granola so satisfying.
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Bake it. Spread your granola mixture in an even layer on your prepared baking sheet. You’ll want to bake it for about 20 to 25 minutes. Here’s the secret: don’t stir it. Letting it be allows those lovely clusters to form. About halfway through, rotate the pan in the oven for an even bake.
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Cool down. This might be the hardest part: you need to let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it gets that crave-able crunch. If you chose to add any dried fruit, now is the time to sprinkle it over the top.
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Enjoy or store. Once cooled, break the granola into clusters and enjoy it right away or store it in an airtight container. It should keep well for a couple of weeks, making your morning routine a breeze.
Serving Suggestions:
Paleo granola is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy it:
- With a splash of almond milk: Just like traditional cereal, serve it in a bowl and pour over your favorite dairy-free milk.
- As a yogurt topping: If dairy is part of your Paleo plan, a dollop of full-fat Greek yogurt with granola on top makes for a rich breakfast.
- With fresh fruit: For a lighter option, enjoy your granola with a side of fresh berries or sliced banana.
There you have it—a simple guide to making delicious, nutritious Paleo-friendly granola at home. It’s the perfect solution for when you’re craving something crunchy and satisfying without breaking your Paleo commitments. Start experimenting with different nuts, seeds, and extras to find your perfect granola mix. Enjoy crafting and munching on your custom breakfast creation!
