If you are looking for a delightful breakfast or snack treat that brings together crunchy, sweet, and fruity flavors all in one, this Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine bite-sized clusters of toasted oats and nuts bursting with vanilla aroma, sweet and tangy freeze-dried strawberries, and luscious white chocolate chips melting just enough to balance every mouthful. Each handful feels like a celebration of textures and tastes that will brighten your mornings or any time you crave a wholesome, satisfying nibble. It’s not just granola; it’s a comforting hug wrapped in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this granola comes from a handful of simple yet thoughtful ingredients that each bring their own character to the mix. These pantry staples and fresh touches create a beautiful balance between crunchy, chewy, sweet, and nutty. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to craft this irresistible combination.
- 3 cups old fashioned oats: The hearty base providing that classic granola crunch and wholesome texture.
- 1 cup flaked coconut: Adds a subtle tropical flavor and chewiness that makes every bite interesting.
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds: For a satisfying crunch and a nutty backbone.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Brings a buttery richness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/3 cup pepitas: These pumpkin seeds add an earthy, slightly nutty flavor plus extra texture.
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal: A nutritional boost and mild nuttiness that also helps bind the granola.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Warms up the flavor profile with an inviting, cozy spice.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled (or butter): Binds everything together while adding a silky richness.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses that unmistakable sweet, fragrant vanilla note throughout the granola.
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries: Bursts of fruity tang that stay crispy and colorful after baking.
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For melting pockets of creamy sweetness — a truly indulgent finish.
How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper — this simple prep will make sure your granola doesn’t stick and cleanup stays easy. Setting up your baking space thoughtfully is an important first step toward granola perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. Give everything a good stir so that the spices and nuts are evenly distributed. This step ensures that every crunchy cluster will have a bit of every flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour the melted coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are well coated and the texture looks cohesive. This binding stage is essential for those beautiful crunchy clusters we all love in granola.
Step 4: Spread and Press the Mixture
Transfer your granola mixture to the prepared baking sheet, then use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the granola evenly into a firm, flat layer. Pressing the granola down helps it bake uniformly and encourages it to clump into those irresistible clusters rather than baking into crumbs.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the granola turns a lovely golden brown. Resist the urge to stir during baking — this allows the clusters to form properly. You can rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even browning, which guarantees crunch in every bite.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once out of the oven, let the granola cool entirely on the baking sheet without stirring. This cooling stage is crucial as it lets the granola set into crunchy clusters instead of falling apart. Patience here pays off with that perfect texture everyone craves.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, break the cooled granola gently into clusters of your desired size. Fold in the freeze-dried strawberries and, if you like, the white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips. The white chocolate melts slightly into the warm granola, creating delightful pockets of sweetness contrasted by the tart strawberries.
How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Top your granola with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or extra strawberries to add a fresh, juicy contrast. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of honey can also elevate the flavor and add visual appeal. These simple touches make each serving feel a little more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This granola pairs beautifully with creamy Greek yogurt or a simple bowl of cold milk for breakfast or snack time. For a more decadent treat, serve it alongside a smoothie bowl or swirl it into your favorite plant-based yogurt. The combination of creamy textures and crunchy granola is deeply satisfying and utterly delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not layer this Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe into mason jars with yogurt and fresh berries to create stunning parfaits? Or sprinkle it over ice cream for an unexpected, crunchy topping. You can even use it as a mix-in for homemade energy bars or trail mix. Its versatility means the fun never has to stop!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your granola fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crunchy and delicious for up to two weeks, making it an easy staple for quick breakfast or snack moments. Just be sure to keep it away from moisture and heat.
Freezing
If you want to keep your granola even longer, freezing is an excellent option. Place it in a sealed freezer bag or container, and it can last for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature — the crunchy texture remains intact.
Reheating
While granola is typically enjoyed at room temperature or cold, you can warm up a small portion in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to bring back that freshly baked scent and crispness. Just keep an eye on it to prevent any burning, especially when reheating clusters containing white chocolate.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds and pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, cashews, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully and will add their own unique crunch and flavor. Feel free to customize based on your preferences or pantry availability.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes. To keep it vegan, simply use coconut oil instead of butter and make sure your white chocolate chips are dairy-free or omit them altogether. The maple syrup and vanilla extract are naturally vegan and delicious.
Can I substitute fresh strawberries for freeze-dried?
Freeze-dried strawberries are ideal because they remain crispy and don’t add moisture that can make the granola soggy. Fresh strawberries would introduce moisture and are best enjoyed fresh served alongside granola rather than baked in it.
How do I ensure my granola forms clusters?
Press the granola firmly into an even layer before baking and avoid stirring it while it bakes and cools. Using a sticky binder like maple syrup combined with melted coconut oil helps the clusters hold together beautifully.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Definitely! Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates can add chewy sweetness. You can also experiment with seeds like chia or sunflower seeds for extra texture and nutrition. Just add these after baking to keep the texture balanced.
Final Thoughts
Making this Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, filled with wonderful aromas and flavors that bring a touch of joy to any day. It’s versatile, wholesome, and absolutely delicious — from breakfast bowls to a simple snack on the go. I truly hope you try this recipe and share it with loved ones because good food is all about creating moments to savor together.
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Strawberry Vanilla Granola with White Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Granola Recipe is a delightful and crunchy homemade granola packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup and coconut oil. Enhanced with freeze-dried strawberries and optional white or dark chocolate chips, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or as a topping for yogurt. The granola is baked to golden perfection, creating crispy clusters that are both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old fashioned oats
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup pepitas
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled (or butter as substitute)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips, optional (or use dark chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Set the baking sheet aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted and slightly cooled coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup, and vanilla extract into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until every component is coated and the mixture looks cohesive.
- Spread and Press Mixture: Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup, press and spread the mixture into an even layer. This helps the granola bake evenly and form clusters.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the granola turns slightly golden brown. Do not stir while baking to allow clusters to form. Rotate the pan halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
- Cool Completely: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. This is essential for the granola to set into crunchy clusters.
- Add Finishing Touches: Once fully cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Gently stir in the freeze-dried strawberries and, if desired, white or dark chocolate chips. Enjoy plain, with milk, or as a topping for yogurt.
Notes
- Ensure the coconut oil is melted and slightly cooled to prevent cooking the maple syrup prematurely.
- Do not stir the granola while baking to allow clusters to form.
- You can substitute butter for coconut oil if preferred.
- Freeze-dried strawberries add crunch and flavor without adding moisture.
- Store granola in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Optional chocolate chips can be left out for a dairy-free or less sweet option.
