When it comes to finding a snack that satisfies your cravings, supports your health, and brings joy to your taste buds, pecan coconut granola checks all the boxes. This is an excellent addition to your pantry, offering a blend of nutrient-dense ingredients, a satisfying crunch, and flavors that make every bite feel like a little indulgence.
This recipe was created with my friends Molly Gray, ND of One Sky Family Medicine, and Stephanie Jones Jordan RDN/LD of Wild Wholesome.
The Heart-Healthy Duo: Nuts and Coconut
What makes pecan coconut granola not just delicious but nutritious too? Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients and their contributions to your health.
Pecans
Rich in monounsaturated fats, pecans are friends of your heart. These “good” fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels. Pecans are also a fantastic source of antioxidants, including beta-sitosterol, which supports heart health and may even benefit prostate health in men. Add to that a hit of fiber to keep you full and L-arginine to improve blood vessel function, and you’ve got a small nut with big benefits.
Additional nutrients in pecans include magnesium and zinc, which are known for supporting stress reduction and a strong immune system.
Almonds
One of the key nutrients found in almonds is vitamin E. This powerful antioxidant helps protect cells from damage and supports skin health. Almonds also contain calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth, as well as manganese for energy production.
Cashews
Cashews are packed with beneficial nutrients as well, including copper, which plays a role in maintaining strong connective tissues and supporting energy production. They also contain iron for healthy blood flow and zinc for immune system support. Cashews may help prevent heart disease due to their high magnesium content.
Coconut
Coconut, whether as flakes or oil, brings its own set of healthy perks. It’s a fantastic source of lauric acid, a type of medium-chain fatty acid that can boost your energy levels while aiding in metabolism. Coconut’s natural sweetness also serves as a healthier alternative to refined sweeteners often found in commercial granola.
On top of that, coconut contains fiber and essential minerals like manganese, which helps support healthy bones and antioxidant function.
Combined Benefits
Together, nuts and coconut offer a delicious snack that supports heart health, aids digestion, and keeps energy levels steady throughout your day.
How to Make Homemade Pecan Coconut Granola
Making pecan coconut granola at home is not only easier than you think, but also gives you complete control over the ingredients. You can adjust the types and amounts of nuts or other ingredients to suit your family’s dietary needs!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups raw nuts (pecans, almonds, and cashews)
- 2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a food processor, pulse the raw nuts, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds until they are coarsely chopped. Be careful not to over-process; you want a chunky texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the food processor. Pulse everything together until well mixed and evenly coated.
Spread the granola mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the tray from the oven and gently flip the granola with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Bake for another 15 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
Allow the granola to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Enjoy it as a topping for yogurt, as breakfast cereal, or a standalone snack!
Creative Variations for Every Dietary Need
The beauty of making your own pecan coconut granola is that you can customize it to suit your preferences and dietary requirements. Here are a few delicious ideas to mix things up.
- A Chocolate Lover? Sprinkle the cooled granola with dark chocolate chips.
- Want a Fruit & Nut Mix? Once the granola is baked and cooled, toss in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy contrast to the crunch.
- For a cozy, autumnal flavor, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice into the wet ingredients.
- Swap out the nuts for more seeds like pumpkin and/or sunflower seeds to make this granola school-lunch safe.
Final Tip
Store your freshly made granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunch for up to two weeks. Set aside a jar and watch how fast your family falls in love with this wholesome treat!
For more free delicious recipes and nutrition advice, click here, and remember, when you want a healthy snack, go nuts!
