Cinnamon Sugar Granola

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. If you grew up loving Cinnamon Toast Crunch, this Cinnamon Sugar Granola recipe is your grown-up upgrade—packed with whole grains, natural sweetness, and customizable crunch. Perfect for meal prep, this granola is gluten-free, easy to make, and versatile enough for yogurt bowls, snacks, or even dessert toppings.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

How to make chunky, clustery granola with pantry staples.
Healthy swaps to reduce sugar without sacrificing flavor.
Pro tips for storage, customization, and avoiding common pitfalls.

Let’s transform your breakfast routine!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Granola

Nostalgic Flavor, Healthier Profile: Captures the essence of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with oats, nuts, and natural sweeteners.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Stays fresh for weeks—ideal for busy mornings.
Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
Dietary Flexibility: Naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and easily adapted to nut allergies.
Crunchy Clusters Guaranteed: Master the secret to bakery-style texture at home.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Granola

Quality ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Base Ingredients

Old-Fashioned Oats: Avoid quick oats—they’re too thin for optimal crunch.
Cinnamon: Use fresh, fragrant cinnamon for maximum flavor.
Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup or honey (sub coconut sugar for vegan).
Healthy Fats: Olive oil, coconut oil, or nut butter for binding.
Nuts/Seeds: Almonds, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.

Optional Add-Ins

Brown Sugar: For a caramelized coating (reduce or omit for lower sugar).
Vanilla Extract: Enhances warmth and depth.
Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots (add after baking).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25–30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (includes cooling)

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

3 cups old-fashioned oats
½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans)
2 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt

2. Prepare the Wet Mixture

Whisk together:

¼ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 mashed ripe banana (optional for natural sweetness)

3. Combine and Spread

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix until evenly coated.
Spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a ½-inch thick layer. Press down firmly to encourage clustering.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway.
Cool completely on the pan—this is key for crispiness!

5. Add Final Touches

Break into clusters. Toss with 1 tbsp brown sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon (optional).
Mix in dried fruit or chocolate chips if desired.

Pro Tips for Flawless Granola

Press, Don’t Stir: After baking, press the granola with a spatula while cooling for bigger clusters.
Low and Slow: Bake at a lower temperature (300°F) for 35–40 minutes if using honey to prevent burning.
Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with sunflower seeds or coconut flakes.
Gluten-Free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free.

Flavor Variations

Apple Pie: Add 1 tsp apple pie spice + dried apple chunks.
Chocolate Chip: Stir in dark chocolate chips post-baking.
Tropical: Mix with coconut flakes + dried mango.
Savory-Sweet: Add rosemary + a pinch of sea salt.

Storage & Freezing

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 weeks.
Freeze: Keep in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Revive Stale Granola: Bake at 300°F for 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why isn’t my granola clumping?
A: Too much stirring or insufficient pressing. Next time, press the mixture firmly before baking and avoid stirring until fully cooled.

Q: Can I use quick oats?
A: Not recommended—they result in a mushy texture. Stick to old-fashioned oats.

Q: Is this granola vegan?
A: Yes! Use maple syrup and coconut oil instead of honey/butter.

Q: How do I reduce sugar?
A: Skip brown sugar and use 1 mashed banana + 2 tbsp nut butter for binding.

Nutritional Breakdown

Per ½-cup serving (approx.):

Calories: 180–220
Protein: 4–6g
Fiber: 3–4g
Sugar: 8–12g (varies with add-ins)

Dietary Notes: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily veganized.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Sugar Granola is more than just a breakfast staple—it’s a versatile, guilt-free snack that brings comfort and crunch to any day. With endless customization options and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Granola: Better Than Store-Bought!