If you’re on the hunt for a crunchy, flavorful snack or a delightful breakfast boost, this Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Packed with natural sweetness from maple syrup and coconut sugar, the toasty pecans and pumpkin seeds add that perfect crunch while the chewy dried cherries bring a burst of fruity tang in every bite. This granola is one of those feel-good treats that’s surprisingly easy to whip up and makes mornings, or any snack time, extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe so irresistible. Each element plays a crucial role—from the oats that provide hearty texture to the pecans and coconut flakes that deliver richness and depth, while the dried cherries add a pop of vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- â…“ cup olive oil: Adds healthy fat that helps everything toast up golden and crisp without sticking.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor that marries beautifully with the nuts.
- ¼ cup coconut sugar: Adds a subtle toffee note and helps the granola clump just right.
- 2 ¼ cups old-fashioned oats (rolled, gluten-free): The hearty base that makes the granola chewy and satisfying.
- â…” cup coconut flakes (unsweetened): Introduces a tropical aroma and light crispness throughout the mix.
- â…” cup pecans (raw, coarsely chopped): Offers buttery crunch and earthy flavor that stands out.
- â…“ cup pumpkin seeds (raw): Adds a nutty crunch plus a boost of nutrition.
- ⅛-¼ teaspoon salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
- â…” cup dried cherries (or cranberries*): The vibrant, chewy finish that brightens every spoonful.
How to Make Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sweet Base
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, as this ensures a perfect toasting environment. Meanwhile, in a small to medium skillet, combine olive oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble. This creates the sticky, sweet glaze that will hold your granola together and give it that irresistible shine and tenderness you’ll love.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Pour this warm syrupy mixture over the rolled oats placed in a large bowl. Mix well so every oat is lightly coated. Then, stir in the coconut flakes, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, and a pinch of salt. This blend of textures and flavors is what makes this granola stand out from the crowd.
Step 3: Spread and Bake to Golden Perfection
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then spread the granola mixture evenly across it. Pop the pan in your preheated oven and let the magic happen as the granola bakes for 20 to 22 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye out so it toasts evenly without burning — a few gentle stirs halfway through can help if you like equally browned clusters.
Step 4: Cool and Add the Final Touch
Once it’s out of the oven, allow your granola to cool completely on the pan. This resting step is important because it lets the clusters set and crisp up perfectly. When cool, break the granola into bite-sized pieces and fold in the dried cherries thoughtfully—this way they remain soft and chewy, creating mouthwatering contrast.
How to Serve Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe
Garnishes
Sheer granola is delightful on its own, but a sprinkle over creamy Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey kicks up the indulgence. Adding a dash of cinnamon or a handful of extra toasted coconut flakes on top perfectly complements the natural flavors in the granola.
Side Dishes
This granola pairs beautifully with a bowl of seasonal fruit salad, or a simple smoothie for a quick and wholesome breakfast. It also makes a wonderful crunchy topping for baked apples or warm oatmeal for an elevated twist on classic comfort food.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your homemade granola layered in parfait glasses with alternating layers of yogurt and fresh fruit for a visually stunning treat. Or pack it into mason jars as a gift or easy grab-and-go snack. You can also mix it into your favorite muffin or cookie batter to add a nutty crunch and chewy zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, perfect for keeping your mornings flavorful without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Just pop it into a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When you’re ready, let it come to room temperature before serving to retain that unbeatable crunch.
Reheating
While granola is best enjoyed as-is, if you want a warm snack, gently re-toast it in the oven for a few minutes. This refreshes the crispness without burning the ingredients and revives the wonderful toasted aromas.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews work wonderfully and provide their own unique flavors and textures that complement the granola perfectly.
Is this granola gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
Can I use other dried fruits instead of cherries?
Definitely. Dried cranberries, blueberries, or even chopped dried apricots can be excellent alternatives and bring delightful variations to the flavor.
How can I make the granola clump more?
If you prefer chunkier granola clusters, you can press the mixture firmly into the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring it halfway through the cooking time.
Is it okay to use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
Yes. Honey or agave syrup can be substituted for maple syrup, though the flavor profile might have subtle differences. Just use the same amount for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Freshly baked, crunchy yet chewy, nutty and fruity — it’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that’s guaranteed to brighten your mornings and snack time alike. I can’t recommend making a big batch enough; once you do, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this little jar of sunshine. Give it a try, and watch it quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Print
Homemade Granola with Coconut, Pecans, and Dried Cherries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade granola recipe is a perfectly balanced mix of toasted oats, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruits, coated with a delicious blend of olive oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Baked to golden perfection, this granola is a wholesome and flavorful snack or breakfast addition that you can customize with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- â…“ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut sugar
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups old-fashioned oats (rolled, gluten-free)
- â…” cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
- â…” cup pecans (raw, coarsely chopped)
- â…“ cup pumpkin seeds (raw)
- â…›–¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
Mix-ins
- â…” cup dried cherries (or cranberries)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the granola.
- Make the Base: In a small to medium-sized skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the olive oil, pure maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture starts to boil. Then reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for another minute to ensure everything is well mixed and slightly thickened.
- Add Oats and Mix-ins: Pour the warm syrup mixture over the oats in a large mixing bowl, tossing to coat the oats evenly. Add in the coconut flakes, coarsely chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Spread Granola on Pan: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the pan in a single layer to ensure even baking.
- Bake Granola: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, you can stir the granola gently if you prefer more even toasting, otherwise leave undisturbed. Once done, remove the pan and allow the granola to cool completely at room temperature.
- Break Up Granola and Add Dried Cherries: After the granola has cooled, break it apart into large chunky pieces. Stir in the dried cherries or cranberries to add a sweet and tart contrast. Your homemade granola is now ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds according to preference.
- For a nut-free option, omit the pecans and pumpkin seeds and add more coconut flakes or seeds like sunflower.
- If you prefer clusters, press the granola firmly into the pan before baking and avoid stirring halfway.
- Adjust the amount of salt to suit your taste; it enhances the sweetness without overpowering.
- Feel free to swap dried cherries with cranberries or raisins for variety.
