Gluten Free Granola

Discover the simplicity of making your own Homemade Gluten Free Granola, an ideal make-ahead breakfast.

Given the often steep prices of gluten-free breakfast choices, crafting this granola from scratch not only proves easier on the purse strings but also empowers you to personalize it with your preferred flavors.

If you are anything like me then breakfast is often quickly overlooked on a busy morning. I am always trying to test different gluten free breakfast ideas and if it can be made ahead that's always a winner!

This homemade berry granola is great for a quick morning breakfast served with milk, yoghurt, or a topping for a smoothy bowl. It's a great alternative to gluten free cereals and a tasty healthier breakfast option.

• Mixed nuts - Adding mixed nuts can add a variety of flavors based on the nuts used from milk earthy flavors to rich nutty flavors. They add a great crunchy texture as well as the nutritional benefits of providing protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals into your breakfast giving an increased energy boost. I used a mix of walnuts, brazil nuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and cashew nuts but you can use your preferred nut mix.
• Gluten free Oats Be sure to use certified gluten free oats. If you can't tolerate oats I have included an oats substitution in the recipe card below to make granola without oats.
• Dried berries - I opted to make a berry granola as I love the use of dried berries not only do they have a delicious sweet flavor but also look visually appealing. The dried berries give a chewy texture that complements the crunchy oats and nuts perfectly.
• Seeds - Adding seeds has a variety of health benefits as they are rich in nutrients, have antioxidant properties, and add fiber that's great for digestive health, The list goes on. I used pumpkin and sunflower seeds but you can also add in chia seeds, flaxseeds, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds.
• Coconut oil - I love using coconut oil as it contains healthy fats that help bind the ingredients together as well as the addition of the mild coconut flavor that it adds to the granola. As coconut oil is a plant based fat it is suitable for a gluten free, dairy free, and vegan diet.
• Maple syrup - Maple syrup is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of maple trees. It adds a pleasant and distinct sweetness to granola without the need for refined sugars. It is a plant-based sweetener also suitable for a dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian diet.
• Vanilla extract - adds additional flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon - Adds a delicious flavor and aroma to the homemade granola.
• Salt - Salt is a flavor enhancer and the addition of a little salt will enhance and balance the sweet flavors.
• Freeze-dried berries - I added freeze-dried berries after the gluten free granola had cooled down as they add vibrant color, have a long shelf life, and increase the berry flavor.

⚡ Substitutions & Variations

🥣 Step by Step Instructions

Below is a brief step-by-step process with photos of how to make gluten free granola.

See the recipe card below for more detailed recipe instructions.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 170℃/325℉/Gas mark 3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Chop the nuts to your preferred size.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, mixed seeds, and dried mixed berries. Mix them together well.

Tip: When chopping nuts for granola, you can use a combination of whole nuts, halves, and smaller pieces. This way, you'll achieve a balanced mixture that contributes to the overall taste and texture of your granola.

Step 3: Melt the coconut oil. Add the maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to the melted coconut oil and mix well.

Step 4: Pour the wet mixture over the oat, nut, and seed mixture and stir until everything is well coated and combined.

Tip: Melt the coconut oil in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish, but you should do it cautiously and in short intervals to prevent overheating or splattering.

Step 5: Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly to create an even layer.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the granola is golden brown and fragrant, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Once the gluten-free granola is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.

Tip: Leave the gluten free granola to cool fully as it will continue to crisp up as it cools.

Ideas To Use Gluten Free Granola

Homemade granola is a great addition to your make ahead gluten free breakfast recipes But it can be used in a variety of ways. So now you have the gluten free granola ready to use I have included some of my favorite ways to include it into my meals.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt (dairy or non-dairy), and fresh fruits in a glass or bowl to create a delicious and nutritious parfait.
2. Smoothie Bowl: Top your smoothie bowl with granola for added texture and crunch. It can complement the creamy texture of the smoothie.
3. Milk or Milk Alternatives: Enjoy granola as a cereal with cold milk or milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or gluten free oat milk.
4. Chia Pudding: Combine granola with chia pudding for a satisfying and nutrient-packed breakfast or snack.
5. Fruit Salad: Add granola to your fruit salad for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
6. Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle granola over your favorite gluten free ice cream for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
7. Apple or Banana Slices: Spread nut butter on apple or banana slices and dip them in granola for a tasty and nutritious treat.
8. Trail Mix: Mix granola with nuts, dried fruits, and dark chocolate chips to create a customized trail mix.
9. Pancakes or Waffles: Top your gluten free pancakes or gluten free waffles with a sprinkle of granola for added crunchines
10. Nut Butter Toast: Spread nut butter on gluten free toast and sprinkle granola on top for a satisfying breakfast.
11. Baked Goods: Use granola as a topping for gluten free muffins, scones, or quick breads before baking for an added crunchy layer.
12. Energy Bars: Incorporate granola into homemade energy bars for a nutritious and portable snack.
13. Rice Pudding: Stir granola into rice pudding to add texture and a touch of sweetness.