Cashew Granola Recipe for a Healthy Crunchy Snack

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a crunchy, nutty granola that you can sprinkle on yogurt, enjoy with milk, or just snack on by the handful. Today, we’re diving into a deliciously simple Cashew Granola Recipe that offers the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and wholesome goodness.

Cashews add a creamy texture and rich flavor that elevates this granola beyond the usual oats and nuts combo. Plus, making your own granola at home means you control the ingredients—no preservatives or excess sugar, just pure, natural yumminess.

Whether you’re a seasoned granola enthusiast or new to making it yourself, this recipe is designed to be easy, customizable, and utterly delicious. From the golden toasted oats to the buttery roasted cashews, every bite is packed with energy and flavor to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Ready to get started? Let’s explore why this cashew granola will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cashew granola recipe checks all the boxes for a homemade snack or breakfast staple. First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can tweak the sweetness, add your favorite spices, or toss in dried fruits to suit your taste.

The cashews provide a buttery richness that complements the oats perfectly, creating a satisfying crunch without being too hard on your teeth.

Another great reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.

It’s also naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats, making it a great option for many dietary needs. Plus, homemade granola is often more cost-effective and less processed compared to store-bought versions.

Lastly, this granola stores beautifully for up to two weeks, so it’s perfect for meal prepping or packing for on-the-go snacks. You’ll love having a jar of this nutty, crunchy goodness ready whenever you need a quick energy boost.

Ingredients

• 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats work best)
• 1 cup raw cashews, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Equipment

• Baking sheet or tray
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting coconut oil)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped cashews, sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat (or in a microwave-safe bowl), melt the coconut oil. Once melted, stir in the maple syrup (or honey) and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir well to coat everything evenly with the syrup and oil blend.
5. Spread the granola: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use the back of the spoon to spread it out into an even layer, about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Every 10 minutes, gently stir the granola to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. Keep an eye on it as ovens vary.
7. Add dried fruit: Once the granola is golden and toasted, remove it from the oven and immediately stir in the dried cranberries or raisins if using. The residual heat will soften the fruit slightly.
8. Cool completely: Let the granola cool on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
9. Store: Once cooled, transfer your granola to an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Tips & Variations

For a chunkier granola, gently press down the mixture on the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too much during baking.

– Sweeteners: Swap maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if preferred. Adjust quantities to taste.

– Nut options: Feel free to use walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts instead of or in addition to cashews. – Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spicy kick.

– Dried fruit: Experiment with chopped dried apricots, cherries, or blueberries. – Seeds: Chia seeds or flaxseeds can be added for extra nutrition.

– Oil: If you don’t have coconut oil, use melted butter or a neutral oil like canola.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cashew granola is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Sprinkle it over your favorite yogurt for a crunchy breakfast bowl or mix it with fresh fruit for a quick parfait.

It also pairs wonderfully with milk or a plant-based alternative as a wholesome cereal.

For a more indulgent treat, try topping vanilla ice cream with the granola and a drizzle of honey. You can also pack it in small containers to take as a nutritious on-the-go snack during hikes, work, or school.

Looking for more creative breakfast ideas? Explore our Banana Oatmeal Muffins, Berry Chia Pudding, and Pumpkin Spice Smoothie recipes for delicious options to complement your granola.

Conclusion

Making your own cashew granola at home is a rewarding and delicious way to start your day or fuel your afternoon. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you can enjoy a nutritious snack that’s free from unnecessary additives.

This recipe’s balance of toasted oats, buttery cashews, and a touch of sweetness makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Plus, the flexibility to customize with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits means you can keep this recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it. Store your granola in an airtight container, and you’ll have a crunchy, energizing treat ready whenever you need it.

Happy cooking and snacking!

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