Gingerbread Granola Spice

Discovering this gingerbread granola felt like unwrapping a little holiday magic in the kitchen. I remember the first winter morning I made it—warm spices filled the air and the cozy crunch brought instant smiles.

Once, when surprise guests arrived right before breakfast, this granola saved the day with its ready-to-go charm and subtle holiday cheer.

Ingredients

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: I reach for these because their thicker flakes hold up beautifully during baking, giving you that perfect satisfying crunch
• Pecans and almonds: These bring a lovely nutty depth; chopping pecans roughly balances texture without overpowering
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds subtle natural sweetness and a whisper of tropical flair that complements the spices
• Gingerbread Spice Blend: Combining ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice creates that warm, festive aroma that feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket
• Coconut oil, maple syrup, molasses, vanilla extract: This trio binds everything with a depth of flavor and natural sweetness that’s both rich and light

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup is a breeze

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Combine oats, nuts, coconut, seeds, and salt in a big bowl while you enjoy the contrasting textures and colors

Prepare The Spice Blend:

Whisk together ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice—inhale deeply as the familiar scent transports you right to the holidays

Combine Wet Ingredients:

Melt coconut oil and mix it with maple syrup, molasses, and vanilla, creating a glossy, fragrant syrup that will cling to each oat and nut

Bring It All Together:

Pour the liquid over the dry mix and stir lovingly until every bite is coated in spice and sweetness

Spread and Press:

Evenly spread on the sheet, press lightly with your spatula if you prefer kiss-your-tooth clusters

Bake and Stir:

Bake for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway for toasty evenness; if you want chunkier clusters, skip the stir

Cool Completely:

Let it rest on the sheet—the magic of crisping happens as it cools and the smells fill your kitchen

Add Optional Mix-ins:

Once cool, toss in dried fruit or dark chocolate chips for extra surprises

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This granola became more than just a breakfast staple—it’s a little holiday ritual, a crunchy hug in a bowl that brightens chilly mornings and festive gatherings.

Keeping It Fresh

Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature and it will stay crunchy for up to two weeks. I’ve found a glass jar with a tight seal keeps flavors vibrant and the texture spot on.

When You're Missing Something

If you don’t have molasses on hand, a dark honey works in a pinch but the deeper bitterness of molasses really brings out the gingerbread magic, so it’s worth picking up.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This granola shines sprinkled over creamy yogurt or even ice cream for a welcoming crunch. For holiday treats, I like wrapping small batches in parchment paper as edible gifts.

• Don’t forget to add a pinch more cinnamon for extra warmth if sharing with cinnamon lovers
• Try it stirred into spiced applesauce for a sweet and crunchy fusion
• Remember to cool completely before adding dried fruit or chocolate to keep them from melting or turning soggy

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Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—I hope this granola brings you as much joy and warmth as it’s brought me.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What spices are used for the gingerbread flavor?

The blend includes ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice to create the warm gingerbread aroma.

→ Can I make this granola nut-free?

Yes, substitute the pecans and almonds with additional seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to keep it nut-free.

→ How should I store the granola for freshness?

Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain its crunch.

→ Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the granola is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ What are some serving suggestions?

Enjoy with yogurt, milk, or as a crunchy topping on desserts. Adds festive flavor and texture to meals and snacks.