Maple Almond Granola Clusters – Crunchy & Healthy Homemade Snack
Crunchy, sweet, and irresistibly satisfying, Maple Almond Granola Clusters make the perfect breakfast, snack, or topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls. Combining wholesome oats, crunchy almonds, and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, these clusters bring together flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Unlike store-bought granola, homemade clusters allow you to control the ingredients, avoiding excess sugar and preservatives while creating a versatile snack that fits your taste preferences.
Perfect for meal prep, gifting, or simply enjoying on-the-go, these maple almond clusters are a protein-rich, fiber-packed option that keeps you energized throughout the day. The clusters’ crisp texture and nutty flavor make them a favorite for both kids and adults, and their simple preparation means anyone can make them in under an hour. Elevate your breakfast, snack time, or dessert with these homemade, wholesome granola clusters.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients make approximately 6 cups of granola clusters. Calorie counts are approximate per ingredient portion.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Old-fashioned rolled oats | 3 cups | 900 |
| Almonds (sliced or chopped) | 1 cup | 520 |
| Maple syrup | ½ cup | 430 |
| Coconut oil (melted) | ¼ cup | 480 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 24 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 |
| Optional add-ins (raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips) | ½ cup | 200 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Coat the oats and almonds: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
- Form clusters: Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Press down slightly to help clusters form.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting. Watch carefully toward the end to prevent burning.
- Cool completely: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet; clusters will harden as they cool.
- Add optional ingredients: Stir in dried fruit or chocolate chips once the granola is fully cooled.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Nut variations: Use pecans, walnuts, or cashews instead of almonds.
- Sweetener alternatives: Agave syrup or honey can replace maple syrup.
- Flavor twists: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice for seasonal flavor.
- Seed additions: Include chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Chocolate lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking.
- Gluten-free: Ensure rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (Per ½ Cup Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle over yogurt or smoothie bowls for a nutritious breakfast.
- Serve with milk or plant-based milk as a crunchy cereal.
- Use as a topping for ice cream, chia pudding, or baked fruit desserts.
- Pack in small jars or snack bags for on-the-go energy.
- Add to muffin or pancake batter for extra crunch and flavor.
Maple Almond Granola Clusters
Course: Recipes6 cups
servings10
minutes20
minutes140
kcalIngredients
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup almonds (sliced or chopped)
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
Optional add-ins: ½ cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
- Spread mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and press lightly to form clusters.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting.
- Cool completely on the baking sheet to let clusters harden.
- Add optional dried fruit or chocolate chips once cooled.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Cluster formation: Press the granola slightly on the baking sheet before baking to help clusters form.
Cooling: Allow granola to cool completely; clusters will harden as they cool.
Optional add-ins: Add dried fruit or chocolate chips only after the granola has cooled to prevent burning or melting.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the granola clusters are safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
2. Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?
Absolutely. Walnuts, pecans, cashews, or a mix of your favorite nuts work well in place of almonds.
3. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup for a different natural sweetness.
4. How do I get the granola to form clusters?
Press the granola firmly on the baking sheet before baking and let it cool completely; clusters will harden as they cool.
5. Can I add dried fruits or chocolate chips?
Yes! Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips after baking to prevent burning or melting.
Conclusion
Maple Almond Granola Clusters are a versatile, crunchy, and naturally sweet snack that elevates breakfast, snacking, and dessert. Homemade clusters allow you to control sugar, fat, and flavor, resulting in a wholesome treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Packed with oats, almonds, and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, these clusters provide protein, fiber, and energy to fuel your day. Quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for meal prep, these granola clusters are a must-have for anyone seeking a healthy and delicious snack option.
