Homemade Apricot Sunflower Granola with Rice Crisps
A crunchy homemade granola featuring sweet dried apricots, nutty sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds combined with old-fashioned oats and rice cereal. The sunflower butter and honey create clusters that hold together beautifully, while cinnamon adds warmth. Perfect for breakfast with milk or yogurt, as a snack on its own, or sprinkled over smoothie bowls. This version stands out for its use of sunflower butter instead of traditional nuts, making it seed-forward and naturally nut-free.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 325 F
- 2
Line a 9 x 13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving slight overhang
- 3
Mix oats, rice cereal, apricot pieces, pepitas, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until combined
- 4
Combine sunflower butter, honey, and vanilla in a small bowl
- 5
Warm the sunflower butter mixture in microwave for 20 seconds
- 6
Pour warmed mixture into bowl of dry ingredients
- 7
Mix well with stiff spatula until wet ingredients are incorporated with dry ingredients
- 8
Pour granola into prepared baking pan and spread evenly
- 9
Press granola down firmly using second piece of parchment paper to compact tightly, then discard paper
- 10
Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges turn golden brown
- 11
Remove from oven and cool on baking rack for 15-20 minutes
- 12
Break cooled granola into chunks, leaving some large pieces
- 13
Store in airtight container
Tips
Press granola firmly using parchment paper to create better clusters that hold together when baked
Watch edges carefully during last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning while achieving golden color
Let granola cool completely before breaking apart to ensure maximum cluster formation
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
Can be made up to 2 weeks ahead and stored in airtight container
Serve with milk, yogurt, or eat as snack; sprinkle over smoothie bowls
Common Mistakes
Don't skip pressing step or granola won't form good clusters
Watch baking time carefully to avoid burning edges
Substitutions
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
adds crunch variation
FAQ
Can I make this without sunflower butter?
Yes, substitute any nut or seed butter like almond, peanut, or tahini in equal amounts for similar binding properties.
How long does homemade granola keep?
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. It may lose some crispness over time.
Can I freeze this granola?
Yes, freeze in airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.