Healthy Granola Recipe Makeover

Creating a healthy granola that is both nutritious and delicious can be a rewarding endeavor. This recipe makeover eliminates added sugars, boosts protein content, and includes nutrient-rich ingredients like pumpkin seeds and hemp hearts.

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)

• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1/4 cup hemp hearts

• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional, for natural sweetness)

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.

3. Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, hemp hearts, shredded coconut, chopped almonds or walnuts, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.

4. Spread on Baking Sheet: Evenly spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with a spatula to form an even layer.

5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Cool and Store: Once the granola is golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. If using, stir in the dried cranberries or raisins. Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Enjoy! For more healthy recipe makeovers follow me on Instagram or join my healthy living community