Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (2024)

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Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (1)

Cheryl MalikPosted: 07/05/18Updated: 05/15/22

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This crunchy paleo granola recipe is my favorite healthy breakfast! Not only is it super easy to make, but it’s perfectly crispy and versatile. With nuts, seeds, and coconut, this vegan paleo granola recipe is a pantry staple for our family.

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (2)

I might have to get a little preachy on you. But don’t worry; your girl is justfired up about something really important.

This crunchy paleo granola recipe, y’all. It is giving me LIFE.

If you’re anything like me, eating a healthy breakfast can be a huge struggle. I want to want eggs. I want to eggsso bad, y’all. I want to eat a breakfast salad and slice up cute little peppers and sprinkle them with salt and pepper and a little drizzle of olive oil. I want this for me.

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (3)

It ain’t gonna happen.

The reality for me is that if breakfast only means eggs and veggies, I inadvertently take on intermittent fasting. In fact, I started IF primarily because I just couldn’t get down with a big appetite in the mornings! I just can’t summon one, no matter how hard I try or how many pennies I throw into fountains or how many locks of hair I give the witches. Smoked salmon? OK, down with that. Scrambled eggs like… once a week? Sure thing, sister. But every day? Nope. I’d rather just be kinda hungry.

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (4)

But do I have a solution for you! This crunchy paleo granola is grain-free and vegan, made with real food, and so delightfully crunchy that it’s unbeatable over yogurt with fruit or as a paleo cereal.

Bonus points: it’s crazy easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The low and slow cook time lets the granola get crispy and crunchy without burning.
  • Using maple syrup gives this paleo cereal recipe a lovely richness that’s also vegan.
  • The coconut flakes provide about 22% of your daily recommended fiber, and they add such a great texture, too!

The great thing about this crunchy paleo granola recipe is that it’s made in the food processor, AKA easy as it gets. On top of that, it’sso dang versatile! You can use almost any combination of nuts that you have on hand, and you could even swap some nuts with more seeds, if that’s your thing.

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (5)

It keeps so well in an air-tight container, too, so you’ll have plenty of this perfectly crunchy paleo granola recipe on hand for weeks.

Tips for Success

  • Low and slow baking is key. If you crank up the heat, you risk burning the granola. If you don’t cook it long enough, it won’t get as crunchy as you’d like. Pop it in the oven, set your phone time, and go do something important with your life… like finish that season of Queer Eye.
  • Getting the texture right is a matter of preference. I chop the almonds first, since I prefer them to be pretty uniformly small. I then add the rest of the nuts and seeds and pulse them a bit to break them down to a texture I like. But what you prefer is totally fine! This crunchy paleo granola recipe is super forgiving and versatile.
  • Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for super easy clean-up. Does meal prep get any easier?!

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How To Make It

It couldn’t be easier!

  • Pulse a couple cups of almonds in your food processor until they’re chopped. Then add the remaining nuts and seeds and pulse again until everything is pretty uniform.
  • Stir in the coconut flakes and toss with the liquid ingredients. Spread out evenly onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
  • Bake this crunchy paleo granola recipe for a total of about 75-90 minutes at 250º F, stirring 2-3 times. That’s it!

FAQs

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Absolutely! You should be able to do an even swap.

I have a nut allergy. Can I substitute all seeds?

You can definitely try. I’d definitely add a lot of pumpkin seeds and up the sunflower seed ratio, too. If you’re not grain-free, you can add in oats, too.

Can I use [whatever oil] instead of coconut oil?

Totally! I’d recommend not using olive oil unless it’s light-tasting, but otherwise, you’re pretty free with what kind of oil or fat you use.

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Is this Whole30 compliant?

Nope! Even if you were to omit the maple syrup, cereal and granola are recreations that aren’t allowed on the program. Total Food Freedom, though!

What paleo yogurt can I eat?

My personal favorite dairy-free yogurt is Kite Hill. They have an unsweetened version that comes in a large-ish tub that I just love and keep on hand all the time. It’s a star in my healthy frosted lemonade recipe! However, many people include organic yogurt into their paleo or primal diet, so it’s all about what works for you!

Serving Suggestions

  • Um, by the handful! I won’t judge you (as long as you don’t judge me).
  • Over plain yogurt (Dairy-free or traditional!), topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey (But the granola is sweet enough to not need it, too!). Of course, if you’re vegan, drizzle with maple syrup instead!
  • As a cereal with your favorite alt milk, like unsweetened vanilla almond milk.
  • With some raisins or other dried fruit, and chocolate chips stirred in for a super easy trail mix.
  • Sprinkled over smoothie bowls. YES.
  • Stirred into your favorite hot cereal.

Did you make and love this recipe? Give it your review below! ? And make sure to share your creations by tagging me on Instagram!

Hey – you’ve made it this far, so now we’re basically best friends! If you make this recipe, I’d love for you to give it a quick review & star rating ★ below. Make sure you follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and Facebook, too!

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (8)

4.84 from 6 votes

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan)

Prep:7 minutes minutes

Cook:1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes

Total:1 hour hour 37 minutes minutes

A crunchy paleo granola recipe that's so easy and delicious. Perfect for a healthy breakfast, this vegan paleo granola is made with nuts, seeds, and coconut.

16 servings

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 250º F.

  • Place almonds in food processor. Pulse until chopped and uniform. Add remaining nuts and seeds to food processor and pulse until pretty uniform and no big pieces remain. Transfer nut-seed mixture to a large bowl; add coconut flakes

  • In a small bowl, combine liquid ingredients. Pour over nut mixture and stir to coat. Spread out evenly onto two parchment-lined baking pans, making sure the layers are pretty thin.

  • Bake 45 minutes, then stir the mixture. Return to oven, swapping rack position if pans were baking on separate racks. Bake another 30 minutes. Stir. Remove from oven and let cool or bake for another 15 minutes for a crunchier granola. We prefer the extra 15 minutes.

Notes

Makes 8 cups.

If you're vegan or are making this for someone who is, make sure you do not use honey in the recipe or when serving.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 0.5cup, Calories: 295kcal, Protein: 7g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Sodium: 43mg, Potassium: 291mg, Total Carbs: 17g, Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 8g, Net Carbs: 11g, Vitamin A: 3IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 92mg, Iron: 2mg

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (9)

Meet Cheryl Malik

In addition to being a certified health coach, certified yoga instructor, and mom of 3, Cheryl is also the recipe developer, editor-in-chief, food photographer, and passionate foodie behind 40 Aprons. Having spent the last 10+ years as a food blogger, she's become known for her flavorful recipes, detailed instructions, gorgeous photography, and down-to-earth approach to food and cooking in general.

Read more...

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Reader Interactions

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  1. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (13)Lucy says

    Is coconut oil 1/4 cup or what is the correct amount?

    Reply

    • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (14)Savannah | 40 Aprons Team says

      1/4 cup 🙂Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (15)

      Reply

      • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (16)tko says

        I always get confused with coconut oil. Is it a 1/4 cup when it is solid and then melt it or is it a 1/4 cup in liquid form.

      • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (17)Jessica | 40 Aprons Team says

        Hi there! For this recipe, it is 1/4 cup of coconut oil measured, then melted. Hope this helps! 😊

  2. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (18)Brianne says

    Hello! Is it supposed to say 1/4 **cup coconut oil melted? Doesn’t say measuring unit. Looks yummy though! ?

    Reply

    • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (19)Savannah | 40 Aprons Team says

      Yes, 1/4 cup. Sorry about that!Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (20)

      Reply

  3. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (21)Anastasia says

    While this recipe is clear and easy to follow, my granola was almost burnt at the 75 minute mark (stirring after 45 mins, oven at 250) so I am not sure how it could cook for another 15 minutes. Your photos show the granola looking very light in color and mine is a very dark brown. Any idea what went wrong?Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (22)

    Reply

    • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (23)Cheryl Malik says

      All ovens are seriously so different. What kind of oven do you have? I have an electric oven as opposed to gas.

      Reply

  4. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (24)Lor says

    I love this recipe!! I’m addicted to the granola in smoothie bowls! Thank you 🙂

    Reply

    • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (25)Amelia Camurati says

      You’re welcome, Lor!

      Reply

  5. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (26)Texas Bubba says

    super easy and everyone loves this. I just can’t make enough of itCrunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (27)

    Reply

  6. Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (28)Omar says

    Love this recipe! It’s so crunchy and easyCrunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (29)

    Reply

    • Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (30)Cheryl Malik says

      I’m so glad you like it! 🙂Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (31)

      Reply

Crunchy Paleo Granola Recipe (Vegan) (2024)

FAQs

Why is my 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.

How to crisp up homemade granola? ›

Not only can you transform that soggy, chewy granola back to being blissfully crunchy, but it's easier than you might think. All it takes is spreading the granola in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and heating it in a 400 degree oven for five minutes — essentially re-baking it.

What is Paleo granola made of? ›

Paleo Granola is made with real food ingredients.

This recipe comes together with a blend of nuts and seeds, coconut flakes, honey, cinnamon and vanilla. The honey in this recipe provides just the right amount of sweetness and the nuts and seeds add a perfect crunch.

What is crunchy granola made of? ›

In a very large bowl, combine the oats, coconut, wheat germ, nuts, and seeds. Mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, salt, maple syrup, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture in the bowl, stirring and tossing until everything is very well combined.

What ingredient makes granola clump together? ›

Clumpy Granola Method: Add Egg White

About this method: According to Deb Perelman of Smitten Kitchen, “Nothing glues like protein.” While there are many granola recipes that include an egg white, I got this tip from the Big Cluster Maple Granola recipe in The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook.

Does homemade granola get crunchy as it cools? ›

Your homemade granola will continue to crisp up as it cools. It's tempting to start eating it as soon as it comes out of the oven, but if you let it rest for 15 minutes on the sheet pan, it'll be extra crisp and toasty – totally worth the wait!

What does it mean to be granola crunchy? ›

adjective. , Slang. characterized by or defining oneself by ecological awareness, liberal political views, and support or use of natural products and health foods.

Why is my homemade granola dry? ›

Keep in mind that the granola won't be dry right out of the oven — it will dry as it cools. So take it out of the oven when it looks lightly toasted and smells like cooked honey. We're going for a toasty smell here. Add dried fruit after baking.

Why do you put oil in granola? ›

The secret weapon in this addictive granola is, yes, olive oil, which gives the oats and coconut chips a wonderful crispy bite.

What is the hidden sugar in granola? ›

Granola can be packed with sugar, corn syrup, honey, and other added sweeteners, just like many of your favourite cereals that you try to avoid for your health's sake.

Is granola good for Vegans? ›

Is granola vegan? Not all granola is vegan, despite the fact it contains many fruits and grains. This is because honey can often be used as a sweetener and binder in granola clusters, so if on a plant-based diet, always check the label to see whether it is suitable.

Is honey paleo? ›

As far as nutritional health benefits, it's clear that raw honey is the winner over pasteurised (as long as you're at least one year old). Unadulterated raw honey is also considered a whole food, making it paleo-friendly, whereas pasteurised honey is heat-processed and not recommended in a paleo lifestyle.

What is the binder in granola? ›

The binder is what helps the base ingredients clump together into clusters. Traditionally this is usually a sugar syrup, but it's possible to use any ingredient that has the power to bind. Egg - Egg whites are a great binder for granola if you are trying to avoid sugar.

How long does homemade granola last? ›

When stored properly at room temperature, fresh homemade granola can last for up to four weeks. Preserve its quality by letting it cool completely before storing. Packing it while it's warm leads to condensation and, consequently, unnecessary moisture.

What's the difference between granola and crunchy muesli? ›

Muesli is made with uncooked rolled oats, which retain their natural texture and taste. Granola is made with baked rolled oats, which gives it a crunchy texture and a toasted flavor. Muesli typically contains fresh or dried fruits like apples, bananas, berries, and raisins, which add natural sweetness and flavor.

Should granola be soft when it comes out of the oven? ›

One important thing to know is that at the end of two hours of baking at the low 225F temperature, the granola will still be soft to the touch. That's how it's supposed to be! Go ahead and pull it out of the oven as long as the color looks nice and golden. And then let it rest for 20 minutes on the countertop.

Why is my granola not crunchy on Reddit? ›

I would go lower: 250f max, and stir periodically to make sure your edges don't get too dark/you're exposing wet spots to dry air. oil in the mix is key to giving that crisp fried-ish texture. also important to store only once fully cooled, in something airtight.

How to keep granola from getting soggy? ›

The Savory Pantry also found that layering fruit between the granola and the yogurt helped prevent the granola from getting soggy too quickly, though that does depend on the moisture content of the type of fruit you're using — avoid frozen fruit and consider adding dried fruit to cut down on moisture.

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