Chai Spiced Healthy Granola with Mixed Nuts and Maple Syrup
Aromatic granola featuring warm chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger combined with mixed nuts, oats, and almond flour. The maple syrup creates natural sweetness while binding the mixture into satisfying clusters. Perfect for breakfast with yogurt or milk, as a snack, or sprinkled over smoothie bowls. This homemade version offers better control over sweetness and ingredients compared to store-bought options, with the distinctive chai spice blend setting it apart from traditional granola recipes.
Ingredients
- 3 cups nuts, roughly chopped (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour, finely ground, blanched
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, finely ground
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt(optional)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- 2
Add all ingredients to a large bowl and fold with a rubber spatula until clusters form and mixture is well mixed
- 3
Pour onto prepared baking sheet and gently nudge granola into an even layer with spatula
- 4
Separate granola into small piles to create clusters with space between for air flow
- 5
Bake for 20 minutes
- 6
Gently flip granola keeping clusters intact and bake for additional 5-15 minutes until edges are deep golden brown
- 7
Cool on baking sheet for 30 minutes until completely cooled
Tips
Watch carefully during final 5-15 minutes as granola can burn quickly once it starts browning.
Create clusters by keeping ingredients slightly clumped rather than spreading completely flat on the baking sheet.
Granola will seem soft when hot but crisps up as it cools, so don't overbake.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
Can be made up to 1 week ahead
Serve with milk, yogurt, or sprinkle over smoothie bowls
Common Mistakes
Don't spread granola too thin to maintain cluster formation
Avoid overbaking as granola continues cooking from residual heat
Don't skip cooling time as granola needs to crisp up
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use different spices for this granola?
Yes, adjust chai spices to your taste or substitute with other warm spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract. Start with smaller amounts and taste test.
What if my granola doesn't form clusters?
Ensure ingredients are well mixed and don't spread mixture too thin. The maple syrup needs to coat everything to bind into clusters.
How long will this granola stay fresh?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this granola stays fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.