... Print

The Ultimate Cozy Holiday Gingerbread Granola Recipe

Close-up of crunchy, dark gingerbread granola clusters mixed with dried cranberries and pecans on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this crunchy, spiced gingerbread granola for a festive breakfast or a homemade food gift. This recipe focuses on large clusters and deep holiday flavor using molasses and crystallized ginger.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup raw pecans or almonds, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (use vegan-friendly if required)
  • 1/4 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or neutral oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (added after baking)
  • 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped (added after baking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well.
  3. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, molasses, melted oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold and toss everything together until the oats and nuts are evenly coated.
  5. Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer. Press down lightly with the back of the spatula to encourage large clusters.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and gently stir the granola, flipping large sections if possible to promote even browning. Return to the oven.
  7. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The granola should be golden brown and smell strongly spiced.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. Cooling is key for maximum crunch.
  9. Once completely cool, break the granola into clusters. Stir in the dried cranberries and chopped crystallized ginger.
  10. Store your crunchy homemade granola in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For a Vegan Granola Ideas option, confirm your maple syrup is pure and not blended with honey.
  • To make this Gluten Free Breakfast Snacks friendly, ensure you purchase certified gluten-free rolled oats.
  • For larger clusters, press the mixture firmly onto the pan before baking and avoid stirring too much during the bake time.
  • This makes a wonderful Festive Food Gift; package in clear jars with a ribbon.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/gingerbread-granola-recipe-crunchy-clusters/