Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe (naturally sweetened)

This Healthy Vanilla Almond Granola is everything you want in a breakfast or snack — perfectly crunchy, naturally sweetened, and so easy to make. It’s made with real ingredients and is totally customizable!

Looking for a healthy homemade granola recipe that’s full of flavor and simple to prep? This easy vanilla almond granola is the perfect homemade recipe! Whether you're meal prepping for the week, craving something sweet or searching for the perfect yogurt bowl topping, this clean eating granola recipe is about to become your go-to. Once you try my homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought granola again!

If you love this easy granola recipe, you need to check out my Cinnamon Roll Granola Clusters, Almond Butter Granola, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Granola.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Vanilla Granola Recipe

• Refined sugar-free – Sweetened naturally with maple syrup (or honey)!
• Crispy clusters – It's ultimate clustery granola that everyone will love!
• Versatile – Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
• Gluten-free - Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
• Vegan-friendly - Dairy free and vegan, this granola recipe is perfect for plant-based diets!

Ingredients to make Vanilla Almond Granola

This easy vanilla granola recipe is made with wholesome, simple ingredients. You’ll need:

• Rolled Oats - old-fashioned oats or gluten free oats both work great!
• Cinnamon – for warm and cozy flavors
• Salt – enhances flavor and balances sweetness
• Melted coconut oil – healthy fats for crispiness
• Pure maple syrup or honey – natural sweeteners that help the granola stick together. Be sure to use maple syrup for vegan diets
• Vanilla Extract - adds a delicious, aromatic vanilla flavor
• Almond extract – for the perfect hint of almond flavor
• Slivered almonds – adds crunch and protein
• Optional: Chocolate chips – stir in after baking for a sweet finish

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Healthy Vanilla Granola

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, salt, and slivered almonds.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), and extracts until fully combined.

Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into dry. Then stir thoroughly until the oat mixture is fully coated.

Step 5: Spread granola mixture onto your prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Press it down firmly with a spatula — this step helps create those crave-worthy clusters.

Step 6: Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway and pressing it back down gently. The granola is done when it’s lightly golden brown.

Step 7: Let the granola cool completely without stirring. This is the key to achieving crispy clusters!

Step 8: Once cooled, break into chunks (and stir in the chocolate chips, if using). Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for the Best Homemade Granola

• Don’t skip the cooling step! That’s when the magic happens and the granola crisps up.
• Want more crunchy granola clusters? Press the granola down firmly before and after stirring halfway through baking for guaranteed added crunch.
• Feel free to customize your granola with your favorite mix-ins. Add in's like chia seeds, pumpkin seeds or dried fruit can easily be mixed in after baking.

Serving Suggestions

This homemade vanilla almond granola is perfect for:

• Topping a smoothie bowl
• Sprinkling over Greek yogurt
• Enjoying as cereal with almond milk for an easy breakfast
• Packing into snack bags for an on-the-go treat!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowls
• Parchment Paper
• Baking Sheet
• Mason Jars

How to Store Homemade Granola

The best way to store this granola is in mason jars or an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for 2-4 weeks.

📖 Recipe