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The Best Homemade Chunky Granola Recipe Recipe

The Best Homemade Chunky Granola Recipe

This chunky homemade granola is crispy, golden, and loaded with big clusters that are perfect as a snack, for breakfast with milk, or sprinkled over yogurt. With warm cinnamon, nuts, and a touch of sweetness, it’s easy to make and much better than store-bought!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 persons
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup raw nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts), roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut optional
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil or vegetable oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 baking sheet approx. 13"x18"
  • 1 parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well.
  3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until all dry ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon to firmly press and compact the mixture into an even layer—this helps create nice big clusters.
  6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even baking. Do not stir during baking.
  7. When the top is golden and edges are browned, remove from oven. Let granola cool completely on the baking sheet without disturbing it—this is crucial for chunky clusters.
  8. Once cooled, gently break the granola into big pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Add dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins) after baking and cooling, if desired.
Swap in your favorite nuts or seeds, or use chocolate chips (added after cooling).
For extra crunch, let the granola cool fully before breaking apart.
Use gluten-free oats if needed.