Steel Cut Oat Granola Recipe For A Healthy Crunch

Starting your day with a wholesome, crunchy, and nutrient-packed breakfast is easier than ever with this Steel Cut Oat Granola Recipe. Unlike traditional rolled oats, steel cut oats have a hearty texture and robust flavor that provide a delightful chewiness to your granola.

This recipe transforms those humble oats into a golden, toasted, and perfectly crunchy granola that’s ideal for breakfast bowls, snacks, or a topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls.

What makes steel cut oat granola stand out is its slow-cooked nature, which preserves the nutty flavor and offers a unique texture you won’t get with other oats. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to suit your taste.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy grab-and-go snack or a satisfying start to your morning, this granola delivers both flavor and nutrition in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This steel cut oat granola is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses steel cut oats, which are less processed than rolled oats, making them a whole grain powerhouse packed with fiber and essential nutrients.

The slow cooking and toasting process unlocks their rich, nutty flavor and creates an irresistible crunchy texture.

Additionally, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients to cater to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

It’s naturally gluten-free (make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if needed) and vegan-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of eating styles.

Lastly, homemade granola like this allows you to control the sweetness and fat content, avoiding the added sugars and preservatives found in many store-bought varieties. The result is a wholesome, delicious, and satisfying granola that you’ll want to keep making again and again.

Ingredients

• 2 cups steel cut oats
• 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey (for a vegan option, use maple syrup)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (added after baking)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven
• Cooling rack (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the steel cut oats, almonds, walnuts, shredded coconut, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir well to evenly distribute everything.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula. Make sure every oat and nut piece is coated with the syrup and oil mixture for maximum crunch and flavor.
5. Spread the granola: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly in a thin layer. This ensures even toasting and crispiness.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through baking (around 15 minutes) to ensure even browning and to prevent burning on the edges.
7. Check for doneness: The granola should be golden brown and fragrant. If it needs more time, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently.
8. Cool completely: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet or transfer to a cooling rack. Cooling is crucial for the granola to crisp up perfectly.
9. Add dried fruit: Once cooled, stir in your choice of dried cranberries or raisins. Avoid adding these before baking as they can burn or become hard.
10. Store: Transfer your granola to an airtight container. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

Tips & Variations

“For a nut-free version, swap almonds and walnuts for extra seeds like sunflower or more pumpkin seeds. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm spice twist.”

– Sweetener options: Use agave syrup, brown rice syrup, or date syrup if you prefer alternatives to maple syrup or honey.

– Mix-ins: Add cacao nibs, chopped dark chocolate, or dried apricots after baking for delicious flavor boosts.

– Crunch factor: Toast your nuts lightly in a skillet before mixing for an even richer toasted flavor.

– Storage: For longer storage, freeze your granola in a sealed container to maintain freshness and crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This steel cut oat granola is wonderfully versatile in how you enjoy it. Here are some ideas to make the most of your batch:

• Classic breakfast: Serve over a bowl of your favorite plant-based milk or yogurt for a crunchy and creamy combination.
• Smoothie bowl topping: Sprinkle on top of smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor.
• Snack on its own: Pack some in a small container or bag for a healthy, energizing snack on the go.
• Fruit parfait: Layer granola with fresh berries and coconut yogurt for a refreshing parfait.
• Baking ingredient: Use as a crunchy topping for baked desserts like fruit crisps or vegan muffins.

If you love this healthy and filling granola, be sure to check out other delicious recipes like Clean Eating Breakfast Vegetarian Recipes for Every Morning and Chocolate Banana Smoothie Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious for more nutritious ideas to start your day right.

Conclusion

Making your own steel cut oat granola is a rewarding and delicious way to nourish your body with wholesome ingredients and a satisfying crunch. This recipe offers a perfect balance of toasted oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners that come together to create a granola that’s both hearty and flavorful.

It’s easy to customize, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite dried fruits, spices, or nuts.

Beyond breakfast, this granola makes a fantastic snack and an excellent topping for various dishes, adding texture and nutrition. Plus, making it at home means you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring you skip unnecessary additives and refined sugars.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting, nutty goodness of steel cut oat granola any time of day.

For more creative and healthy recipes, explore other tasty options like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or energize your meals with Active Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy and Energized Living.

Happy cooking!

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