Cardamom Granola Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Snack

Granola is a beloved breakfast staple that combines wholesome oats, nuts, and a touch of sweetness for a satisfying crunch. Adding cardamom to your granola elevates this classic treat with a warm, exotic aroma and a subtle spiced flavor that perfectly complements the natural nuttiness of the oats.

Whether you’re topping your yogurt, enjoying it with milk, or simply snacking on it by the handful, this cardamom granola recipe is sure to become a pantry favorite.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of fragrant cardamom with a hint of honey and toasted nuts, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home, allowing you to customize it with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.

You’ll love how fresh and vibrant the cardamom flavor is, making every bite feel like a cozy, comforting treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cardamom granola recipe is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy and nutrition to kickstart your day. The use of fresh cardamom pods or ground cardamom adds a unique twist that sets this granola apart from typical store-bought varieties.

It’s naturally sweetened with honey and maple syrup, avoiding any refined sugars.

The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to swap nuts or add dried fruits as you prefer. It’s perfect for meal prep and stores well, so you can enjoy crunchy, flavorful granola for weeks.

Plus, making your own granola at home means you control the quality and quantity of ingredients, ensuring a healthier option for your family.

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup raw walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 tsp ground cardamom (or 4-5 crushed green cardamom pods)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Airtight container or mason jar for storage
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: food processor (if chopping nuts finely)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
3. Prepare the wet mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Stir gently until melted and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the warm honey mixture over the oat mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to thoroughly coat all the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, ensuring even distribution.
5. Spread the granola: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking sheet and spread it out into an even layer, pressing it down slightly with the back of your spoon for some clumping.
6. Bake the granola: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove and stir the granola gently to break up any large clusters and ensure even toasting. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
7. Cool completely: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools. If using dried fruits, stir them in after the granola has cooled.
8. Store your granola: Once completely cool, transfer the granola to an airtight container or mason jar. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.

Tips & Variations

“For a nuttier flavor, try toasting your nuts separately before mixing them in. You can also add a pinch of black pepper to enhance the cardamom’s warmth.”

• Nut swaps: Use pecans, hazelnuts, or cashews instead of almonds and walnuts.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
• Sweetness level: Adjust honey and maple syrup to taste or substitute with agave syrup for a vegan option.
• Fruit additions: Mix in dried cherries, apricots, or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Crunch factor: Add puffed quinoa or chia seeds just before baking for extra texture.
• Make clusters: Press the granola firmly into the pan before baking and avoid stirring to create chunkier clusters.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your cardamom granola as a crunchy topping for creamy yogurt or smoothie bowls. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like bananas, berries, or mango slices.

For a quick breakfast, simply pour your favorite milk over a bowl of granola and savor the fragrant spices.

This granola also makes a fantastic snack on its own or as a mix-in for homemade trail mix. You can sprinkle it over baked goods or even ice cream for an added texture and flavor boost.

The subtle warmth of cardamom makes it a perfect companion for both sweet and savory dishes.

Conclusion

This cardamom granola recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little spice and warmth into your morning routine. With its blend of wholesome oats, crunchy nuts, and fragrant cardamom, it’s a comforting yet energizing treat that’s simple to make and endlessly customizable.

Plus, making granola at home means you can avoid the preservatives and excess sugars often found in store-bought versions.

Whether you’re a seasoned granola lover or looking to try something new, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. It’s perfect for meal prep, gift-giving, or just enjoying as a snack anytime.

Give it a try and discover how a pinch of cardamom can transform your granola into something truly special.

For more wholesome recipes, check out our Homemade Almond Butter, Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Apples, and Vanilla Chia Pudding for delicious and nutritious meal ideas!

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