Nuts About Granola? Try These Nut-Free Granola Recipes

Nuts About Granola? Try These Nut-Free Granola Recipes

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Updated on January 12, 2024

Reviewed by Yasmin Elwan

Struggling to find a nut-free granola recipe as tasty and healthy as possible can be quite the pickle, especially when so many shop-bought options are prepared with nuts or sneaky allergens. Nut-free granola is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional granola, which often contains nuts. 

This granola type is ideal for those with nut allergies or who prefer to avoid nuts in their diet.

Nut-free granolas can be used in various ways, such as a topping for yoghurt or oatmeal or simply as a crunchy snack. We will show you just how easy peasy it is to whip up your own delectable nut-free granola at home. With all-natural ingredients like sunflower seeds and flaxseeds, these recipes present an allergy-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on flavour.

Let’s work some magic in your kitchen and make breakfast times more scrummy without worrying about allergens!

Easy Nut-Free Granola Recipe

A bowl of nut-free granola with dried fruits and yogurt in a rustic kitchen setting.

The part we all anticipated—we will share an easy-to-follow nut-free granola recipe that is perfect for those with allergies or anyone looking for a delicious and healthy homemade snack. So, no more morning struggles.

Ingredients:

You’ll love this easy nut-free granola recipe. Here is the list of ingredients you need to gather:

  • Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or dates
  • Shredded unsweetened coconut, also known as grated coconut
  • Sunflower seeds or Helianthus seeds for a bit of crunch
  • Rich and creamy sunflower seed butter or sunflower spread
  • Lovely sweet maple syrup, which is a great natural sweetener
  • Crunchy glutenfree rolled oats or oat flakes form the base of our granola
  • Ground flaxseed, also known as flaxseed powder, for added nutrition
  • Chia Seeds for texture and health benefits
  • Pepitas or pumpkin seeds add extra protein to our mix
  • Finally, some Unsweetened coconut flakes or desiccated coconut for flavour.

Allergy Substitutions

You might think that a nut-free granola recipe is challenging, but we have found the perfect allergy substitutions for you.

  • For people unable to eat nuts, seeds are a great swap. Seeds like pumpkin and sunflower can add crunch and flavour.
  • If you can’t use honey because of dietary rules or allergies, maple syrup works just as well.
  • For those who need to stay away from gluten, there’s good news. Gluten-free oats are a good option in this recipe.
  • Vegans or people allergic to dairy products don’t have to miss out, either. Use your favourite plant-based (almond or coconut) milk instead of dairy milk.
  • Can’t tolerate oil? Don’t worry! Apple sauce makes an ideal replacement and keeps the granola just as moist.

Instructions

  1. First, take your rolled oats and put them in a large bowl.
  2. Add coconut chips, pumpkin seeds, and hemp hearts to the same bowl.
  3. Stir all these ingredients until they mix well.
  4. Add in your choice of sweetener next; this could be coconut sugar.
  5. Mix again until everything sticks together well with the sweetness.
  6. Pour in a small amount of vanilla extract for extra flavour and stir again.
  7. Spread this mixture in a thin layer on a baking sheet.
  8. Bake it in an oven at low heat until it turns golden brown.
  9. Allow it to cool before you break it up into clusters.

Variations of Nut-Free Granola

A vibrant and diverse bowl of nut-free granola surrounded by fruits and seeds.

Variations in nut-free granola recipes can accommodate to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary requirements, making this adaptable snack an ideal choice for a wide range of people. From clustery granola to air fryer granola, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Here are some delightful variations you can try:

Clustery Granola

Creating clustery granola, where the granola forms delightful, crunchy clusters, is a popular way to enjoy this versatile snack. The key to achieving those sought-after clusters lies in the ingredients and preparation method. Here’s a recipe to help you make your own clustery granola:

Ingredients

  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (or other seed of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup dried fruit, chocolate chips, coconut flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Mix the rolled oats and pumpkin seeds in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, brown sugar (if using), salt, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well coated.
  5. Create Clusters: To form clusters, press the granola mixture together with your hands or a spatula, creating small to medium-sized clumps.
  6. Bake: Spread these clumps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Do not stir the granola while baking, as this will break the clusters.
  7. Cool: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It will further crisp up and form clusters as it cools.
  8. Add Extras: Once cooled, add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or coconut flakes if desired.
  9. Store: Keep the granola in an airtight container. It should remain clustery and delicious for a couple of weeks.

Tips for Perfect Clusters

  • Pressing the Mixture: Compacting the granola before baking helps to form the clusters.
  • Avoid Stirring: Resist the urge to stir the granola during baking and cooling, as this can break up the clusters.
  • Sweeteners: Sticky sweeteners like honey or maple syrup are key to forming clusters.
  • Patience in Cooling: Let the granola cool completely before breaking it apart, as it hardens and clusters more during cooling.

Air Fryer Granola

Making granola in an air fryer is a quick and efficient method, perfect for those who want a fast and easy way to prepare this crunchy treat. Here’s a simple recipe to make air fryer granola:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup mixed seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional add-ins: dried fruit, coconut flakes, nut-free chocolate chips (add these after cooking)

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, seeds, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate small bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
  2. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for a few minutes.
  3. Cook in Batches: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the granola in batches. Spread a thin layer of the granola mixture in the air fryer basket.
  4. Air Fry: Cook for about 4-6 minutes. Shake the basket or stir the granola halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
  5. Cool: Once the granola is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool. It will become crunchier as it cools.
  6. Add Extras: Add optional ingredients like dried fruits or chocolate chips after cooling.
  7. Store: Keep the granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Tips

  • Watch Carefully: Cooking times can vary depending on the air fryer model, so keep a close eye on the granola to prevent burning.
  • Stirring: Stirring halfway through is crucial for even cooking.
  • Thickness: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. A thinner layer of granola will cook more evenly.
  • Cooling: Allow the granola to cool completely in the air fryer basket or baking sheet for optimal crunchiness.

Storage Tips for Nut-Free Granola

Nuts About Granola? Try These Nut-Free Granola Recipes
Nut-Free Granola

Storing nut-free granola properly is essential to maintain its freshness and crunchiness. Here are some effective storage tips:

Cool Completely Before Storing

Ensure that the granola is completely cool before storing it. Warm granola can lead to condensation in the storage container, which makes it soggy.

Use Airtight Containers

Store the granola in airtight containers. Glass jars, plastic food storage containers, or resealable bags are excellent choices. This helps to keep out moisture and air, preserving the granola’s texture and flavour.

Room Temperature Storage

Keep the container at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with high heat or humidity, like near the stove or in direct sunlight.

Consider Portion Sizes

If you’ve made a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for storage. This way, you only open what you’ll consume in a short period, keeping the rest fresher for longer.

Label with Dates

Label your storage containers with the date you made or opened the granola. This helps keep track of freshness and ensures you use the oldest batches first.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

For long-term storage, you can freeze granola. Put it in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can last several months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before use.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

If allergies are a concern, ensure that containers used for storing nut-free granola have not previously held nuts or other allergens.

Regularly Check for Freshness

Periodically check your stored granola. If it smells stale or has lost its crunch, it’s time to make a new batch.

Keep Away from Moisture-Prone Items

Don’t store granola near items that might emit moisture or odours, like fresh fruit or onions, as this can affect its quality.

Following these storage tips, your nut-free granola will stay delicious and crunchy, ready for your next snack or meal!

Benefits of Homemade Nut-Free Granola

Nuts About Granola? Try These Nut-Free Granola Recipes
Nut-Free Granola

Homemade nut-free granola offers several benefits, making it a great choice for both health-conscious individuals and those with specific dietary needs. Here are some of the key advantages:

Allergy-Friendly

Homemade nut-free granola is perfect for anyone with a nut allergy. It’s free from the top 14 allergens, too. That makes it very good for people who have food allergies. Many people can eat it and not get sick.

This recipe is also good if you are vegan or don’t want oil or refined sugar in your food. Making your granola at home can save you money as well, compared to buying from the store.

Customisable Ingredients

Making your own nut-free granola allows you to customise the ingredients according to your taste and preferences. You can easily add or remove certain ingredients to make it exactly how you like it.

For example, if you want a sweeter granola, add some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. If you prefer a savoury flavour, you can sprinkle in some spices like cinnamon or cardamom.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customising the ingredients of homemade granola. It’s a fun and creative way to experiment with different flavours and textures while still enjoying a nutritious and allergy-friendly snack or breakfast option.

Healthier Option

Homemade nut-free granola recipes can be healthier, especially for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. When you make your own granola, you have control over the ingredients that go into it.

You can reduce the amount of added sugar in your granola by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of processed sugars. Remember that store-bought choices frequently contain high levels of added sugars, which can lead to health issues such as weight gain and diabetes.

You can customise the ingredients with homemade nut-free granola to suit your taste and nutritional needs. You can add dried fruits, seeds, and even spices like cinnamon to enhance the flavour without compromising healthiness.

Furthermore, granola made with oats is rich in beta-glucan, a type of fibre that promotes heart health. Beta-glucan has been demonstrated to enhance digestion and decrease cholesterol levels.

Making your own nut-free granola allows you to incorporate other nutritious ingredients, such as sunflower seeds packed with vitamins E and B-1 and minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.

Nut-Free, Worry-Free

In conclusion, nut-free granola recipes offer a delightful and versatile option for those looking to enjoy the crunch and convenience of granola without the concerns of nut allergies. 

The process of making granola at home promotes a healthier lifestyle by allowing control over ingredients, thereby reducing the intake of preservatives, additives, and excessive sugars often found in commercial products.

Not only does homemade granola cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions, but it also serves as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and fun cooking activity.

FAQs

Can I make granola without using nuts?

Yes, you can make nut-free granola by using ingredients like seeds, dried fruits, and grains instead of nuts.

What are some nut-free alternatives to add crunchiness to the granola?

You can add crispy rice cereal or toasted coconut flakes as nut-free alternatives to provide crunchiness to your granola.

Are there any health benefits to eating nut-free granola?

Nut-free granola can still be a nutritious snack or breakfast option as it typically contains whole grains, seeds, and dried fruits, which provide energy and fibre.

Can I use alternative sweeteners if I don’t want to use honey for my nut-free granola?

Yes, you can replace honey in your nut-free granola recipe with alternative sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

How long does homemade nut-free granola last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, homemade nut-free granola should last around 2-4 weeks.

u003cstrongu003eCan I make nut-free granola vegan or gluten-free?u003c/strongu003e

Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey. For gluten-free granola, ensure your oats and other additives are certified gluten-free.

u003cstrongu003eWhat are some good flavour combinations for nut-free granola?u003c/strongu003e

Popular combinations include cinnamon and apple, chocolate and coconut, and mixed berries. You can experiment with various spices, dried fruits, and seeds.

u003cstrongu003eCan nut-free granola be a good snack for kids?u003c/strongu003e

It’s a fantastic snack for kids, especially those with nut allergies. It’s a healthier option than many store-bought snacks and can be packed with nutrients.

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