If you have a sweet tooth but want to keep things wholesome, this Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe is just the treat you need. It’s that perfect blend of crunchy oats, nutty seeds, vibrant freeze-dried strawberries, and luscious white chocolate, all baked to golden perfection. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re spooning it over yogurt, munching it as a snack, or sprinkling it into your morning smoothie, this granola recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, natural ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful granola. Each component plays a vital role: oats give that hearty crunch, nuts bring a satisfying bite and richness, while coconut oil and maple syrup add sweetness and help bind everything beautifully. The freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips add bursts of color and indulgence, making this recipe as pretty as it is delicious.
- 3 cups old fashioned oats: The hearty base that creates the perfect granola crunch.
- 1 cup flaked coconut: Adds a tropical, chewy texture and subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds: Brings a satisfying nutty crunch and healthy fats.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Offers rich flavor and buttery texture.
- 1/3 cup pepitas: These pumpkin seeds add a lovely crunch and boost nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal: Provides fiber and a mild nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted and slightly cooled): Keeps the granola moist and crispy, with a deliciously light coconut aroma.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: The natural sweetener that ties everything together smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor with fragrant sweetness.
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries: These vibrant bits add intense strawberry bursts without sogginess.
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For adding creamy sweetness and a touch of indulgence.
How to Make Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the granola cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. This simple prep sets the stage for a perfect bake and an easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. This blend brings together texture, flavor, and nutrition in every spoonful, laying the foundation for your granola masterpiece.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything well so every oat and nut gets lovingly coated with this sweet, luscious mixture. This step is key to achieving those perfectly clustered granola bites.
Step 4: Spread and Press the Granola
Transfer your mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down firmly. This ensures your granola bakes in clusters rather than loose crumbs, making it so satisfying to crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the granola is lightly golden brown. Resist the temptation to stir while baking, but do rotate the pan halfway through to guarantee even browning. This slow bake locks in flavor and crispiness beautifully.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once out of the oven, allow the granola to cool on the pan without stirring. This cooling period is important to help the clusters set perfectly and prevent crumbling when you break them apart later.
Step 7: Add Strawberries and Chocolate
After the granola has cooled completely, gently fold in the freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips if you’re using them. These final additions bring bright color and sweet contrast to the crunchy, nutty base, elevating this granola to a snack you’ll crave again and again.
How to Serve Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe
Garnishes
Top your favorite yogurt or smoothie bowls with a generous sprinkle of this granola. Add fresh strawberries or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor and beauty that complements the strawberry white chocolate granola recipe perfectly.
Side Dishes
This granola pairs wonderfully with creamy cottage cheese, fresh fruit salads, or even as a crunchy topping on warm oatmeal. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it alongside breakfast favorites or as a midday snack anytime.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this granola with Greek yogurt and fresh berries in a glass for a quick parfait that looks as good as it tastes. Or use it as a crunchy crust for no-bake cheesecakes, adding a delightful twist to desserts. The possibilities with this strawberry white chocolate granola recipe are both fun and delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to keep it crisp and fresh. Keeping it sealed prevents moisture from sneaking in and ensures every cluster stays perfectly crunchy.
Freezing
If you want to keep your granola fresh for longer, store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a batch of this strawberry white chocolate granola recipe again.
Reheating
While generally enjoyed at room temperature, if you prefer your granola warm, simply pop a portion in the oven at low heat for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain its crisp crunch and avoid melting the white chocolate prematurely.
FAQs
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips in the Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap white chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate chips, or even skip the chocolate entirely if you prefer a lighter taste. Each option brings a different flavor dimension to the granola.
Are freeze-dried strawberries necessary?
Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred because they add intense flavor and vibrant color without making the granola soggy. However, you can use dried strawberries as a substitute, though the texture will be a bit chewier.
Can I make this granola vegan?
Yes! Use coconut oil instead of butter and ensure that your white chocolate chips are dairy-free. The pure maple syrup and plant-based ingredients already make this recipe almost vegan-friendly.
How can I make chunkier granola clusters?
Press the granola firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and don’t stir it while it’s in the oven. Cooling without disturbance also helps the clusters stay intact, perfect for chunkier bites.
What’s the best way to enjoy this granola?
Whether sprinkled on yogurt, eaten by the handful, or used as a topping on desserts, this strawberry white chocolate granola recipe shines in many ways. Find your favorite way and make it part of your daily routine!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a snack that combines wholesome ingredients with a touch of indulgence, this Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and totally crowd-pleasing. Once you taste those crunchy clusters dotted with sweet strawberries and creamy white chocolate, you’ll understand why it’s so special. Give it a go and watch it become a kitchen favorite in no time!
Print
Strawberry White Chocolate Granola Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade Strawberry Granola recipe features a delicious blend of oats, nuts, seeds, and coconut, baked to a perfect golden crisp and mixed with sweet freeze-dried strawberries and optional white chocolate chips. It’s a wholesome, crunchy snack or breakfast topping that’s easy to prepare and full of natural flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old fashioned oats
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup pepitas
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled (can use butter)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional, can use dark chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the old fashioned oats, flaked coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated and combined.
- Spread Mixture: Transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the mixture down firmly into an even layer to encourage cluster formation.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the granola turns a light golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking, but do not stir the granola during the baking process to maintain clusters.
- Cool: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. This allows the granola to harden and form clusters.
- Add Final Mix-ins: Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Gently fold in the freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips if using. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Make sure not to stir the granola while baking to preserve cluster formation.
- You can substitute coconut oil with butter if preferred.
- Use dark chocolate chips as a healthier alternative to white chocolate chips.
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Freeze-dried strawberries add a crunchy texture and natural sweetness without moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
