Apple Granola Recipe Vegan Gluten Free and Delicious

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked granola. If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, delicious, and easy-to-make breakfast or snack, this apple granola recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Crafted to be both vegan and gluten-free, it caters to a variety of dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture. Crisp apples, toasted nuts, and a touch of cinnamon come together to create a naturally sweet and crunchy granola that’s perfect for topping your favorite plant-based yogurt, mixing into smoothie bowls, or simply enjoying by the handful.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use seasonal apples and enjoy a nutritious treat any time of the day.

Whether you’re a seasoned granola lover or trying to switch to a healthier lifestyle, this recipe offers a balanced combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying option for breakfast or snacking.

So, let’s dive into how you can make this delicious apple granola at home with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan gluten-free apple granola is more than just a breakfast staple; it’s a versatile, nutrient-packed snack that’s easy to customize. Here’s why it stands out:

• Allergen-friendly: Completely free from animal products and gluten, making it safe for those with common allergies or intolerances.
• Natural sweetness: Sweetened with dried apples and a hint of maple syrup, avoiding refined sugars.
• Crunchy and chewy texture: Perfectly balanced thanks to toasted oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
• Easy to make: Requires minimal prep and bakes quickly for a fresh batch anytime.
• Customizable: You can swap nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Ingredients

• 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried apple pieces (unsweetened)
• Optional: 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Oven
• Air-tight container for storage

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the gluten-free rolled oats, chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and nuts.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to toss everything together, ensuring all the oats and nuts are coated with the syrup mixture.
5. Spread granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a thin layer. This helps the granola bake evenly and become perfectly crunchy.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning and promote even toasting. Keep a close eye near the end to avoid overbaking.
7. Remove from oven and immediately stir in the dried apple pieces and shredded coconut (if using). The residual heat will soften the dried apples slightly without making them soggy.
8. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
9. Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crunch, toast the nuts separately before mixing them in.”

• Swap nuts and seeds: Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, cashews, or sunflower seeds to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Make it spiced: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a warming twist.
• Use fresh apples: For a different texture, finely dice fresh apples and toss them in after baking, but consume immediately to avoid sogginess.
• Sweetener options: Substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or brown rice syrup for varying sweetness profiles.
• Make it chunkier: Press the granola mixture lightly on the baking sheet before baking to create clusters.
• Boost protein: Add hemp seeds or chia seeds for an extra nutritional punch.
• Make it nut-free: Use extra seeds like pumpkin and sunflower to replace nuts.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This apple granola is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Here are some favorites:

• Sprinkle over your favorite plant-based yogurt for a crunchy, satisfying breakfast.
• Add to smoothie bowls to boost texture and nutrition.
• Enjoy a handful as a quick snack on its own or mixed with fresh fruit.
• Use as a topping for warm oatmeal or overnight oats to add crunch.
• Mix into dairy-free milk as a cereal substitute for a nourishing start to your day.

Conclusion

This vegan gluten-free apple granola recipe is a wonderful addition to any kitchen, offering a wholesome, tasty, and allergen-friendly option for breakfast and snacking. It brings together the natural sweetness of apples with the satisfying crunch of nuts and seeds, all enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and customizable to your liking, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy a nourishing treat without any fuss.

Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this granola recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal or snack. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on the blog like Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe, Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe, and the comforting Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe to keep your plant-based cooking exciting and varied!

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