Toasty Nut & Seed “Granola” with Coconut & Cinnamon
This is my quick, one-pan version of “granola”, but really it’s just lightly toasted nuts and seeds bound with coconut oil, cinnamon, and a tiny bit of coconut sugar. It’s naturally low in sugar but still feels like a treat. I love it as a snack by the handful, layered with berries and coconut yogurt, or sprinkled over steel-cut oats for extra crunch.
- 2 cups mixed nuts
- 1 cup mixed seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- 1-2 tsp coconut sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add cinnamon, coconut sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine.
Add the nuts and seeds directly to the pan. Stir frequently for 5-7 minutes, letting them toast gently until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the coconut flakes and vanilla extract during the last 1-2 minutes of toasting. Keep stirring so nothing burns.
Remove from heat and let cool completely. It will crisp up as it cools.
Transfer to 1-2 large mason jars or any airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
How I Enjoy It
- Sprinkled over steel-cut oats for crunch and healthy fats.
- A small handful as a snack when I want something satisfying but not overly sweet.
- With berries or sliced banana + coconut yogurt as a quick breakfast.
Optional Add‑Ons & Swaps
- Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra warming spice.
- Swap maple syrup for coconut sugar if preferred.
- Add a few cacao nibs after cooling for a subtle chocolatey crunch.
- Toss in a handful of freeze-dried berries after it cools for more color and antioxidants.
Why It’s Healing
- Nuts & seeds provide healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc that support immune health and stable energy.
- Coconut oil is a stable fat for gentle toasting and offers easily digestible medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
- Cinnamon adds warmth and helps support healthy blood sugar balance.
- Minimal sugar keeps this a low-glycemic snack that won’t spike energy or insulin.
- Pairing with berries or bananas adds extra fiber and antioxidants.
