Simple Grain-Free Granola

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flake
• 2 cups slivered raw almonds (slivered almonds do best here)
• 1 1/4 cup raw pecans
• 1 cup raw walnuts
• 3 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp flaxseed meal
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 2 Tbsp coconut, cane, or muscavado sugar
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 3 Tbsp coconut or olive oil
• 1/3 scant cup maple syrup (or sub agave or honey if not vegan)
• 1/4 cup dried blueberries (optional // or other dried fruit)
• 1/4 cup roasted unsalted sunflower seeds (optional)

Preparation

1. 1

   Step 1

   Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (162 C) and position a rack in the center of the oven.
2. 2

   Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut, nuts, chia seeds, flax seed, cinnamon, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. 3

   Step 3

   In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the coconut oil and maple syrup and pour over the dry ingredients and mix well.
4. 4

   Step 4

   Spread the mixture evenly onto a large baking sheet (may require two depending on size) and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove from oven, add dried blueberries and roasted sunflower seeds, and stir.
5. 5

   Step 5

   Increase heat to 340 degrees F (171 C) and return to oven for another 5-8 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
6. 6

   Step 6

   The coconut oil will help this granola crisp up nicely, but be sure to watch it carefully as it browns quickly.
7. 7

   Step 7

   Once the granola is visibly browned and done cooking (about 27 minutes total for me), remove from the oven and let cool completely.
8. 8

   Step 8

   Store in a container with an air-tight seal, and it should keep for a few weeks.

9. Bon appetit!