Introduction

These Maple Almond Granola Clusters are a delightful, crunchy snack packed with wholesome oats and toasted almonds. Sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup, they make a perfect breakfast topping or an on-the-go treat that’s easy to prepare.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with chunky granola pieces, each piece showing a rough texture of oats and sliced almonds mixed together in light golden brown shades. There are a few bright blueberries scattered inside the granola near the middle and lower part of the bowl. On the left side of the bowl, one large, ripe red strawberry with green leaves rests partly on the granola. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups (255g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
3/4 cup (75g) almond flour or almond meal

1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (95g) sliced, slivered, or chopped almonds (unsalted recommended)

1/3 cup (70g) coconut oil
1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar

1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, salt, and almonds. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the syrup.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut oil, brown sugar, and maple syrup until the sugar dissolves. It’s okay if a layer of oil forms on top. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and pour this syrup over the oat mixture. Stir well until the mixture starts to stick together.
Step 4: Transfer the sticky mixture to your prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula to form a compact layer.

Step 5: Bake for 40 minutes, rotating the pan every 10 minutes to ensure even baking. After baking, let the granola slab cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes without turning off the oven.
Step 6: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the granola slab out of the pan and cut it into squares. Break the squares into smaller clusters carefully while still warm. Spread the clusters back onto a baking sheet or the pan.
Step 7: Return the clusters to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove and allow them to cool completely; they will crisp up as they cool.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Feel free to add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins after baking for a chewy contrast.
Using light brown sugar will give a milder sweetness, while dark brown sugar adds a richer flavor.

Make sure to press the mixture tightly in the pan to form sturdy clusters that hold together well.

Storage

Store the cooled granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the clusters for up to three months and thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating is optional; clusters are best enjoyed crisp and cool.

How to Serve

The image shows clusters of golden-brown granola pieces scattered on a white marbled surface. The granola is made of oats and sliced almonds, with a crunchy texture visible in each cluster. Among the granola, there are whole, plump blueberries adding dark blue spots of color, creating a nice contrast against the tan granola and white marbled background. The granola pieces vary in size, showing natural, rough edges and some almond slices sticking out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil instead of coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with melted butter, vegetable oil, or another neutral oil. Keep in mind that coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and helps the clusters firm up nicely.

How do I make my granola clusters extra crunchy?

Press the mixture firmly into the pan before baking and bake at the recommended temperature with regular rotation. Also, allowing the clusters to cool completely after the second bake helps them crisp up perfectly.