If you've never made homemade granola, this recipe is bound to convert you—it’s slightly sweet with a bright citrus note and incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you're topping your yogurt, pairing it with smoothies, or enjoying it like cereal with milk, this granola hits the spot. It’s gluten-free and can be made vegan (just swap in plant-based white chocolate). The homemade version not only tastes better but also costs less than most store-bought options if you buy ingredients in bulk. Trust me—you’ll never go back once you taste the fresh, fruity crunch! 

Ingredients

• Zest of 1 medium orange
  
  

• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
  
  

• 4 cups rolled oats
  
  

• 1 cup raw pecans (or almonds, walnuts, etc.)
  
  

• ½ tsp cinnamon
  
  

• ¾ tsp sea salt
  
  

• ½ cup coconut oil, melted
  
  

• ½ cup pure maple syrup
  
  

• ⅓ cup white chocolate chips
  
  

• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If using foil, generously grease or spray it with non-stick spray or melted coconut oil.
   
   

2. In a small bowl, combine the orange zest and brown sugar. Use clean fingers to rub together until the zest turns bright orange and fragrant—this intensifies the orange flavor.
   
   

3. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, pecans, cinnamon, salt, and the orange-zest mixture.
   
   

4. Pour in the melted coconut oil and maple syrup. Mix well so everything’s evenly coated.
   
   

5. Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 350 °F for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through (around 13 minutes in). When stirring, gently press the granola with the back of a spoon or spatula to encourage clusters.
   
   

6. Once golden brown after baking, remove the granola from the oven. Allow it to cool on the baking sheet for at least 1 hour—this step is essential to let the granola crisp up and form those irresistible clusters.
   
   

7. After cooling, mix in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries (if using). Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 weeks.

Nutrients

Per serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 200–250 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 12–14 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 6–8 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 24–28 g
  
  

• Fiber: 3–4 g
  
  

• Sugars: 10–12 g
  
  

• Protein: 3–4 g