Homemade Strawberry Almond Granola with Chia Seeds
A crunchy homemade granola featuring rolled oats, chopped almonds, and coconut bound together with almond butter, maple syrup, and olive oil. Freeze-dried strawberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color, while chia seeds provide extra nutrition. Perfect for breakfast with yogurt or milk, as a snack on its own, or sprinkled over smoothie bowls. This version creates satisfying clusters through proper pressing and cooling, resulting in a granola that's less crumbly than store-bought varieties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 140Fan/325°F and line a large baking tray with parchment paper
- 2
Stir together oats, almonds, coconut, and chia seeds in a large mixing bowl
- 3
Gently heat almond butter, olive oil, maple syrup, and vanilla in a small saucepan until just warmed through
- 4
Stir the heated mixture until smooth and combined
- 5
Pour almond butter mixture into the oat mixture and add salt
- 6
Stir well to fully coat all ingredients
- 7
Spread granola mixture onto baking tray and press down firmly into a thin layer
- 8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning tray around halfway through for even baking
- 9
Remove when golden brown on top and allow to cool completely for 1-2 hours
- 10
Pour freeze-dried strawberries over cooled granola and break into clusters while stirring in strawberries
Tips
Press the granola mixture firmly into a thin layer before baking to create better clusters rather than loose pieces.
Allow the granola to cool completely before breaking it up - this ensures the clusters hold together properly.
Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness for up to 1-2 weeks.
Good to Know
Keep in a sealed container for 1-2 weeks at room temperature
Can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in airtight container
Enjoy with yogurt, milk, or as a snack on its own
Common Mistakes
Don't skip pressing the mixture firmly to avoid loose, crumbly granola
Ensure complete cooling before breaking up to maintain clusters
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this oil-free?
You can reduce or omit the oil, but increase the almond butter slightly for binding. The granola may be less crispy.
What if I don't have freeze-dried strawberries?
Use dried strawberries, other dried fruits, or fresh berries added after cooling. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
How long will this granola stay fresh?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it will stay crispy and fresh for 1-2 weeks at room temperature.