Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (2024)

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This healthy grain-free granola recipe is one that I’ve been making on repeat recently. It’s super crunchy and keeps well, making it a great option to have on hand for a speedy breakfast, healthy snack or a crunchy addition to elevate meals.

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (1)

Granola is something that you can easily make at home with one bowl, no equipment (apart from an oven, which most people have access to) and very little time. You can make it so much healthier than most shop bought granolas and at a fraction of the price. It’s so adaptable – you can change the ingredients around according to your likes, or use what you have available in your cupboard to save you a shopping trip.

Usually made with oats, in fact it’s quite difficult to get hold of shop bought oat-free granola. I’ve shared a few granola recipes before like this chocolate hazelnut granola or this high protein granola, but this is my first time making a grain-free version. I use oats in so many of my recipes and always get comments asking for a replacement for oats as well as oat-free recipes.

When made with the right ingredients, granola can be an extremely nutrient dense breakfast. This healthy grain-free granola recipe for example is packed with healthy fats, plant protein and is a great source of fibre, nutrients and antioxidants. It’s much lower in sugar compared to shop bought versions (I only used 1 tbsp of sweetener in the whole recipe and didn’t add any dried fruit).

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (2)

The other great thing about granola is that it keeps a while, which makes it really handy for grab-and-go snacks and minimal prep/hassle-free breakfasts. My favourite way to enjoy this healthy grain-free granola recipe is sprinkled on high protein greek style yoghurt with some fresh/frozen berries. It makes a great balanced and filling breakfast with all the macro nutrients that gives me enough energy to sustain me on busy mornings.

I also love sprinkling some on anything and everything really. Another favourite breakfast/lunch is a slice of sourdough toast, cottage cheese and a sprinkle of granola on top!

Here are some more serving suggestions:

  • With milk and berries.
  • With yoghurt and fruit (pick a higher protein yoghurt for a more rounded meal/snack).
  • Sprinkled on smoothie bowls/overnight oats/porridge for some crunch.
  • Sprinkled on top of salads/roasted vegetables/avocado toast.
  • On it’s own as a crunchy snack.

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (3)

What you need to make this healthy grain-free granola recipe:

Nuts – you can use a mixture of any nuts you like or have available. I used a combination of almonds, cashews & hazelnuts. Nuts in general are a great source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They’re great for bone, brain and digestive health and help control blood sugar levels. They’re also a source of antioxidants (polyphenols), which are known to help protect against some health conditions.

Seeds – rich in vitamins (vitamin E, B vitamins & folate) and minerals (magnesium, zinc & iron) as well as heart healthy fats. Like nuts, seeds are a great addition to your diet. I always include them in my breakfasts, snacks and even sprinkle them on my main meals. They’re also a great source of fibre, plant protein and antioxidants.

Tahini – made of sesame seeds, tahini is another great source of seed goodness in the form of healthy fats. I use it in so many of my recipes – I’m simply addicted to the liquid gold! If you don’t have any, you can use any nut butter or even coconut oil/dairy butter.

Liquid sweetener – I only use 1 tbsp of maple syrup in the whole recipe to add a hint of sweetness, but also to help everything hold together. It’s what gives this recipe that satisfying crunch you want when you take a bit of granola. You can use other liquid sweeteners like honey, agave, rice syrup, etc.

Salt – A pinch of salt goes a long way in enhancing all the flavours and making your granola tastes.

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (4)

This healthy grain-free granola recipe is:

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Grain-free
  • Dairy-free
  • Easy to make
  • Packed with healthy fats
  • A great source of plant protein (7g of protein per serving)
  • A great source of fibre
  • Great as a snack
  • Great for breakfast with yoghurt and berries
  • A great addition to savoury meals like soups, avocado on toast, salads, roasted vegetables, etc.
  • Great for meal prepping since it keeps a while.
  • So tasty!

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (5)

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (6)

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (7)

This healthy grain-free granola recipe is one that I've been making non-stop on repeat recently. It's super crunchy and keeps well, so a great option to have on hand for a speedy breakfast, healthy snack or a crunchy addition to elevate meals.

5 from 3 votes

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Snack

Servings 6

Calories 213 kcal

Ingredients

  • 45g unsalted hazelnuts
  • 45g unsalted almonds
  • 45g unsalted cashews
  • 40g pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tbsp flaxseed/linseed
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp tahini or nut butter
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan/350F.

  • Mix everything together in a bowl making sure everything is evenly coated.

  • Transfer onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Spread out in an even layer.

  • Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Allow to cool completely.

  • Once cooled, break up chunks an transfer them into an air-tight jar/container.

  • Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Notes

You can use any mixture of nuts and seeds.

You can use nut butter instead of tahini or even regular butter/coconut oil.

Other liquid sweeteners will also work instead of maple syrup. Things like honey, rice syrup, agave, etc.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

  • With milk and berries.
  • With yoghurt and fruit (pick a higher protein yoghurt for a more rounded meal/snack).
  • Sprinkled on smoothie bowls/overnight oats/porridge for some crunch.
  • Sprinkled on top of salads/roasted vegetables/avocado toast.
  • On it's own as a crunchy snack.

Nutrition

Calories: 213kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 7gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.01gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 252mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 2mg

Keyword dairy-free, grain-free, healthy breakfast, healthy recipes, healthy snack, nuts, oat-free, vegan breakfast, vegan recipes

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (8)

Nadia2023-08-16T18:10:03+01:00August 16, 2023|Breakfasts, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Granola, snack, Vegan, Vegetarian|5 Comments

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5 Comments

  1. Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (12)

    JamilaAugust 19, 2023 at 1:21 pm - Reply

    Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (13)
    I made this and it was so good I am making it again! I might added some toasted coconut flakes this time and it was so tasty.

    • Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (14)

      NadiaAugust 21, 2023 at 11:05 am - Reply

      So glad you enjoyed it Jamila 😀 It’s m y favourite granola recipe. Love the idea of adding coconut flakes, will definitely try it next time! x

  2. Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (15)

    SamAugust 21, 2023 at 10:19 am - Reply

    Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (16)
    So crunchy – the best granola recipe i’ve tried! Thank you for sharing 🙂

    • Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (17)

      NadiaAugust 21, 2023 at 11:05 am - Reply

      That’s so amazing to hear ? it’s my fave too! Thank you for your feedback Sam x

  3. Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (18)

    JaneJanuary 30, 2024 at 1:35 pm - Reply

    Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (19)
    Mmm, so tasty and satisfying. I loved this fact it wasn’t sweet, it was just the right balance. Definitely will make again.

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Healthy Grain-free Granola Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is grain free granola healthier? ›

Grain-free usually features nuts and seeds rather than oats. These ingredients are sources of fiber and protein, both of which slow digestion and curb post-meal glucose. Fiber also increases the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut. High levels of SCFAs are associated with improved insulin sensitivity.

Is homemade granola healthier? ›

YUM! More reasons to obsess over homemade granola: Healthier: it has less sugar and is lower Calorie than anything you'll find at the store. Freezer Friendly: It will keep for months in the freezer, stored in a freezer safe bag.

Why are homemade granola not crunchy? ›

I aim to let it hit room temperature, whatever that may be; the real point is to give it ample time to shed excess heat and steam. This should take about 45 minutes; if left out indefinitely, the granola can turn sticky or soft, so do try to put it away as soon after cooling as you can.

What was the downside to granola as a food? ›

On the downside, granola can be high in added sugars, hidden calories, and saturated fat, making some options less healthy.

What is a healthy version of granola? ›

Others may contain a variety of healthy whole grains, like buckwheat, amaranth and quinoa. Grain-free granolas can also provide fiber from ingredients like chickpea flour or almond flour, Zumpano says. Seeds, such as chia seeds or pumpkin seeds, can add even more healthy fiber.

Can I eat homemade granola everyday? ›

Yes. "Granola does contain important nutrients, and if you enjoy it, eating some every day is probably fine as part of a balanced diet," says Harris-Pincus.

Can I eat granola while losing weight? ›

The Bottom Line. So, is granola good for losing weight? Yes, it can aid in weight loss. However, you need to control your portion size to make sure you get all the nutrients, and it keeps you full for a longer time.

Does homemade granola spike blood sugar? ›

Because granola contains carbohydrates, it can spike blood sugar levels in some people with diabetes. However, whether or not granola spikes your blood sugar levels, and how quickly it may cause a blood sugar spike, will vary depending on what type of granola you eat and what you pair it with.

What ingredients should you avoid in granola? ›

Check the ingredient list, avoiding products that list sugar or sweeteners —including natural sweeteners like honey — within the first few ingredients. Instead, the first few ingredients should be whole foods, such as oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. You may also want to look for varieties high in protein and fiber.

Is it worth making your own granola? ›

Once you try homemade granola, you won't go back to store-bought granola. It's so much better! This granola recipe is also a far more healthy granola option, since it's made with whole grains, unrefined oil and naturally sweetened.

What ingredient makes granola stick together? ›

Add an egg white.

The whites act as a kind of glue that binds the ingredients together. To ensure that the egg whites coat all the ingredients, I beat them with a whisk until foamy and increased in volume, which makes it much easier to fold into the granola.

Is granola better for you than Oatmeal? ›

Which One Is Better for Breakfast? Both oatmeal and granola make for a healthy, nutritious breakfast, but the winner for us is granola—the added nuts, seeds, and dried fruits give you a source of fiber and healthy fats that oatmeal can't quite compete with.

Is Greek yogurt and granola healthy? ›

You can frequently enjoy this combination as a healthy and nutritious breakfast option or a tiered, parfait-like snack. Yogurt and granola both have several possible nutritional benefits, and eating them together or separately can become a healthful addition to your daily diet.

Is granola with milk healthier than cereal? ›

While both granola and cereal may seem similar, there are significant differences between the two. Granola is a healthier, more nutrient-dense, and joyfully versatile option that will not only make your taste buds dance but also keep your body happy and healthy.

Is grain free food better for you? ›

A grain-free diet may reduce inflammation, aid weight loss, and improve digestion and blood sugar levels. It may also promote mental health and alleviate pain in people with fibromyalgia or endometriosis, though more research is needed.

Why is grain free better for you? ›

It Helps You Eat More Whole Food

Individuals who eat grain free often rely more on fruits and vegetables to add substance to their meals. Fruits are added to delicious baked goods, nuts and seeds are ground into flour and vegetables are spiralized into the perfect plant-based pasta noodles.

What is grain free granola made of? ›

Grain free granola is made from a base of nuts and seeds instead of oats. This version is bound with coconut oil and nut butter, and it's flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.

Why is grain free healthier? ›

Reduced inflammation:

Many chronic disorders are linked to inflammation, which may be caused by some grains' constituents. Some recent studies on humans and animals report a connection between eating wheat and chronic inflammation. So, eliminating wheat from your diet may help your body experience less inflammation.

References

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