Dessert

Sweet and Crunchy Homemade Granola with Nuts, Coconut, and Cranberries Recipe

ByEthan Lark March 18, 2026March 18, 2026

Introduction

Homemade granola is a versatile and wholesome snack that you can easily customize to your taste. This recipe combines crunchy nuts, toasted coconut, and a hint of cinnamon for a delicious start to your day or a satisfying snack anytime.

A close-up image of chunky homemade granola spread across a white marbled surface, showing a mix of oats, nuts like pecans and almonds, green pumpkin seeds, and dried red cranberries. The granola pieces have a rough, crumbly texture with a golden-brown to medium brown color, some clusters loose and some denser. A silver slotted spatula in the center lifts a mix of these granola clusters, with some scattered small crumbs around it. The scene is bright and clear, focusing on the vibrant natural colors and textures of the granola and nuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup roughly chopped almonds
1/2 cup roughly chopped pecans
1/2 cup pepitas
1/2 cup coconut flakes (sweetened or unsweetened)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oats, almonds, pecans, pepitas, coconut flakes, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix evenly.
Step 3: Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until all the granola is well coated.
Step 4: Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and stir with a spatula. Press it back into an even layer and return to the oven.
Step 5: Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the granola is light golden brown. Check early to prevent burning, as ovens vary.
Step 6: Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. Once cooled, break into clusters and mix in dried cranberries or raisins if using.

Tips & Variations

To customize, swap out nuts for your favorites or add seeds like sunflower or chia for extra texture.
Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
For chunkier granola, press it firmly before baking and avoid stirring too often.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a warm spice twist.

Storage

Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze it for up to three months. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy it as is.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of large clusters of homemade granola spread across a white marbled surface, with a metal spatula lifting a portion in the center. The granola pieces are chunky and textured with visible oats, pumpkin seeds, whole almonds, pecans, and dried cranberries, giving a mix of light brown, reddish, and green colors. The granola appears crunchy and toasted with some pieces broken into smaller bits around the larger clusters. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts or seeds in this granola?

Yes, granola is very flexible. Feel free to substitute or add your favorite nuts and seeds like walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds to suit your taste.

How can I make my granola less sweet?

Reduce the maple syrup quantity or substitute it with unsweetened applesauce to lower the sweetness. You can also omit the dried fruit or choose unsweetened varieties.