Sweet and Salty Granola

Servings: 12 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Beginner
The flavor combinations in this sweet and salty granola are endless, no matter what mood you're in.

Tired of paying a premium for a tiny bag of granola? You’re in the right place! This Sweet and Salty Granola recipe is tried and true, yielding about 6 cups—plenty to share with the family. The best part? You control exactly what fresh, wholesome ingredients go into it.

This healthy granola sneaks extra nutrients into even the pickiest eaters’ diets. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from chia seeds, hemp hearts, and nuts. Hemp seeds, in particular, are a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids. Combined with oats, nuts, and dried fruit, this granola delivers heart-healthy soluble fiber, sustained energy, and a touch of natural sweetness—no refined sugar required. Every handful is both nutritious and delicious. Talk about a health sneak attack!

The first time I made this sweet and salty granola, it only lasted for two days, tops. It is by far one of the most requested recipes from my family and friends. Pair it with my homemade Greek Yogurt, as a crunchy addition to Apple Deluxe, or simply eat it by the handful like my fireman.

Customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits each season:

  • Sprinkle Pumpkin Spice for a warm, autumnal bite filled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice
  • Swap the dried cranberries with dried mango or pineapple for a tropical twist
  • Use toasted hazelnuts, dried cherries, and white chocolate chips for a Christmas-y crunch

This homemade Sweet and Salty Granola is a simple, healthy snack you can make ahead of time and enjoy all week.

Sweet and Salty Granola

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 3 mins Cook Time 27 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 1 hr
Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 12
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Get ready for a snack that's as addictive as it is satisfying! This granola strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, creating an irresistible crunch that will keep you coming back for more. It's packed with rolled oats, crunchy nuts, and just the right amount of honey, cinnamon, and sea salt.

Ingredients

Dry ingredients

Wet ingredients

Instructions

Step 1

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 2

  1. Gather ingredients

    Gather all of the ingredients. Feel free to add some of your favorites if they aren't listed.

Step 3

  1. Mix dry ingredients

    Add all dry ingredients (except dried cranberries) in a large mixing bowl and mix until combined. Add the cranberries after baking for a softer, chewier texture. Set bowl aside.

Step 4

  1. Mix wet ingredients

    First, melt the coconut oil (I buy mine at Costco). You can do this quickly by warming it in a (covered) microwave-safe bowl for 30-40 seconds, or by gently melting it on the stove top over low heat. Once the oil is liquid, add the honey and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is well-combined and glossy.

Step 5

  1. Bake

    Once all ingredients are combined, pour mixture onto a large baking sheet. Use a silicone mat for less crunch, or parchment paper for more. Using parchment paper allows the liquid ingredients to crystallize.

    Bake for 23-25 minutes or until golden brown, then bump up the heat to 400°F for 3-5 minutes for extra crunch. 

Step 6

  1. Garnish and enjoy

    After pulling the granola out of the oven, immediately sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, drizzle of maple syrup, and cranberries. Let the granola fully cool undisturbed for at least 30 minutes before eating. If giving to friends and/or family as a gift, fill up one of these cute bakery bags!

Keywords: granola, healthy, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, naturally sweetened
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I store granola?

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week (although, at my house it never lasts that long)! I love using the glass containers at Costco.

Why isn't my granola crunchy?

There are a few possibilities as to why your granola didn't meet your crunchy standard. Next time, try baking it for a few extra minutes, and be sure to not overcrowd the baking sheet. If the granola is spread too thick, it won't crispy properly. Oh, and even though it will feel impossible, try not to dig in until the granola is fully cool for ultimate clusters.

What's your go-to nut and fruit combination?

There are too many combinations to choose from! But I find myself using a blend of walnuts, shaved almonds, and dried cranberries most frequently.

Are there gluten free options?

You can substitute certified gluten-free rolled oats and nuts. Nuts are inherently gluten-free, but may have traces of gluten if processed at shared processing facilities.

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