Print

Fall Treats Granola Clusters Recipe

4.7 from 92 reviews

These Fall Treats Granola Clusters are a deliciously crunchy and naturally sweet snack, bursting with autumn flavors from cinnamon, mixed nuts, and dried fruits. Perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or topping your yogurt, this easy-to-make recipe combines rolled oats, nuts, honey or maple syrup, and dried cranberries or apple bits for a wholesome treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or apple bits

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the granola clusters.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the rolled oats, mixed nuts, ground cinnamon, and salt to ensure the spices and seasoning are evenly distributed.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the honey or maple syrup until smooth to allow for easy coating of the dry ingredients.
  4. Coat Dry Ingredients: Pour the honey or maple syrup over the oat and nut mixture, stirring thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated for optimal clumping and flavor.
  5. Press Mixture: Transfer the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press firmly into an even layer, which helps the clusters form while baking.
  6. Bake Granola: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola turns golden brown and emits a fragrant aroma, indicating it is perfectly toasted.
  7. Add Dried Fruit: Remove the granola from the oven and immediately sprinkle the dried cranberries or apple bits over the top, pressing them lightly into the warm granola so they stick.
  8. Cool Completely: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step firms the clusters for easy breaking without crumbling.
  9. Break into Clusters: Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your preferred size and store in an airtight container for freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute maple syrup for honey to make the granola vegan.
  • For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger powder.
  • Store granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for best freshness.
  • Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Pressing the mixture firmly and baking evenly ensures the clusters hold together well after cooling.

Keywords: granola clusters, fall granola, cinnamon granola, healthy snacks, homemade granola, nut clusters, baked granola, trail mix, autumn snacks