The other morning, I was wandering through my kitchen with a craving for something sweet yet wholesome, something that would remind me of lazy brunches spent savoring each bite of fluffy French toast. That’s when inspiration hit: what if I could capture all those familiar flavors in a crunchy granola? And just like that, my French Toast Granola was born—a deliciously unexpected combination that brings the comforting essence of breakfast to your morning routine.
With hints of cinnamon and vanilla dancing through every bite, this granola not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a nutritious pick-me-up. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Ideal for topping smoothies or yogurt or enjoying all on its own, this recipe promises to transform your mornings from mundane to magical. So grab your oats and nuts, and let’s dive into making a batch that will have you skipping the drive-thru for good!
Why choose French Toast Granola for breakfast?
Versatile Delight: This granola isn’t just for breakfasts; it’s perfect for snacking or topping off smoothies and yogurt.
Irresistibly Flavorful: Bursting with warm cinnamon and sweet vanilla, each bite transports you to a cozy brunch café.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delightful granola ready in under 30 minutes!
Nutritious Crunch: Packed with wholesome oats and nuts, this treat delivers protein and fiber to fuel your day.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it up at brunch, and watch everyone fall in love with this enjoyable twist on a classic!
French Toast Granola Ingredients
For the Granola Base
- Gluten-free oats – the main star providing fiber and texture.
- Raw pecans, chopped – adds a buttery crunch and healthy fats.
- Raw almonds, chopped – a great source of protein and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Salt – enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Ground cinnamon – gives that warm, inviting taste reminiscent of French toast.
- Ground ginger – adds a subtle kick that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Cardamom – offers a unique floral note that elevates the flavor.
- Cloves – just a dash brings warmth and complexity to the blend.
- Ground black pepper – surprisingly adds depth to the sweet profile.
- Coconut sugar – gives a hint of caramel sweetness that complements the oats.
For the Wet Mixture
- Olive oil or melted coconut oil – choose your favorite for richness; coconut oil lends a tropical hint.
- Maple syrup – key to achieving that sweet French toast flavor with a hint of earthiness.
- Pure vanilla extract – essential for creating that nostalgic aroma and taste of breakfast.
How to Make French Toast Granola
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Preheat: Start by setting your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and coconut sugar. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed, creating a fragrant base.
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Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or melted coconut oil), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until blended. This mixture brings the sweetness that makes our granola special!
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Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix with a large spoon until every oat and nut is beautifully coated. You’ll want to see that glossy shine!
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Spread and Bake: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and evenly spread it out. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it—if the pecans start to brown too quickly, cover gently with foil.
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Cool and Store: Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let your French Toast Granola cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for you to enjoy!
Optional: Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious French Toast Granola clusters are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during their week! You can mix the dry ingredients—gluten-free oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, and spices—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Additionally, the wet mixture of olive oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract can be whisked together a day ahead and refrigerated. Just before baking, combine both mixtures and follow the baking instructions as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy that bakery-fresh aroma and taste in no time, allowing you to savor a wholesome breakfast with minimal morning effort!
Tips for the Best French Toast Granola
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Proper Mixing: Make sure all dry ingredients are well combined before adding wet ingredients to ensure even flavor distribution throughout your French Toast Granola.
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Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your granola while baking; the nuts can brown quickly. If they start to darken too much, cover the pan lightly with foil.
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Cooling Time: Allow the granola to cool completely before storing it. This helps maintain its crunchy texture and prevents clumping.
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Storage Method: Use an airtight container to keep your French Toast Granola fresh longer. It’s best enjoyed within a week, but it can last up to two weeks if stored properly.
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Personalize Your Mix: Feel free to add in your favorite seeds, dried fruits, or spices to customize your granola, enhancing both flavor and nutrition!
Variations & Substitutions for French Toast Granola
Feel free to explore these exciting tweaks and substitutions to make this granola truly your own!
- Nut-Free: Replace nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, allergy-friendly option.
- Sweetener Swap: Use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Extra Spice: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or a pinch of allspice for a cozy autumn vibe.
- Dried Fruit Boost: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins after baking for a chewy contrast and burst of natural sweetness.
- Chocolatey Delight: Mix in dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking for a luxurious touch, perfect for when cravings hit.
- Protein-Packed: Incorporate a scoop of your favorite protein powder when mixing the dry ingredients for a nourishing boost.
- Coconut Lover: Stir in shredded unsweetened coconut into the dry mix for a tropical twist that adds texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the wet mixture for a surprising hint of warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
What to Serve with French Toast Granola?
Elevate your breakfast or snack experience with delightful pairings that bring out the flavors of this hearty granola.
- Creamy Yogurt: The smoothness of yogurt adds a rich contrast to the crunchy granola and complements its warm spices beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of freshness and a sweet-tart balance that enhances the granola’s flavor profile.
- Banana Slices: Creamy banana slices create a wonderful creaminess, harmonizing with the warm spices, making each bite feel indulgent.
- Milk or Nut Milk: Pour over your favorite milk for a cozy morning treat. The milk soaks into the granola, softening it just enough to meld perfectly with its crunchy goodness.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: A touch of nutty peanut butter not only amplifies the flavor but also adds a rich creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy oats.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy and rich, this pudding complements the granola’s crunch while adding nutritious benefits to your breakfast spread.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle over for an added touch of sweetness, tying together the harmonious flavors of cinnamon and vanilla within the granola.
- Smoothie Bowl: Top your favorite smoothie bowl with a generous handful of granola for added crunch and substance, making it a perfectly satisfying meal.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the breakfast experience, marrying rich flavors with the comforting essence of brunch.
How to Store and Freeze French Toast Granola
Room Temperature: Keep your French Toast Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain its crunch.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your granola for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe bag or container, and double-check it’s well sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: If you want to enjoy your granola warm, simply spread it on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
French Toast Granola Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right oats for granola?
Absolutely! For the best results, use gluten-free oats if you’re avoiding gluten. Look for the label that specifies “gluten-free” to ensure no cross-contamination has occurred. The oats should be whole and free from any dark spots or moisture—such visual cues can indicate old or inferior quality oats.
How should I store leftover French Toast Granola?
Very simple! Store your French Toast Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like it to last longer, feel free to pop it in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to keep it sealed to avoid moisture, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze French Toast Granola for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled granola in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge or at room temperature—there’s no need to reheat!
What should I do if my granola is too clumpy or not crispy enough?
No worries! If you find your granola is too clumpy, it may be due to not mixing the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly. To remedy this, break up the clumps with your hands while spreading it on the baking sheet. If it’s not crispy enough, try baking it a little longer, checking frequently to prevent burning. You can also stir it more often during baking for even toasting.
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of when making this granola?
Great question! This French Toast Granola recipe is nut-based due to the pecans and almonds, so be mindful of nut allergies. For those with gluten sensitivities, ensure you always use gluten-free oats as mentioned. And if you have pets, it’s a good idea to keep granola out of their reach, as some ingredients like nuts and cinnamon can be harmful to them.
Can I personalize my French Toast Granola mix?
Yes, absolutely! The more the merrier! Feel free to add in your favorite seeds, dried fruits, or spices to customize your granola. Chia seeds or shredded coconut can add more nutrients, while raisins or dried cranberries can introduce sweetness and variety to each bite. Happy experimenting!
Delicious French Toast Granola for Cozy Mornings at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the gluten-free oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and coconut sugar until well combined.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or melted coconut oil), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until all oats and nuts are coated.
- Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let cool completely before storing.