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    Home » All Recipes » Homemade Pantry Staples

    Simple Homemade Granola (Nut-Free, No Honey)

    updated: May 11, 2025

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    The contents of this article are human-created.
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    This Simple Homemade Granola is incredibly quick and easy to make! Made with just 6 real-food ingredients and no honey, it's naturally vegan and nut-free.

    A jar overflowing with granola sitting beside a baking sheet holding more freshly made granola.

    *Nutrition Disclaimer: The information provided on this site is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please read our disclaimers page for more information.

    It may be basic, but I love having a batch of this Simple Homemade Granola on hand. It's a versatile pantry staple that makes a delicious ingredient for many recipes or quick breakfasts and snacks.

    A labelled jar filled with granola that's spilling out, next to toppings and bowl of blueberries being delved into.

    With its subtle sweetness and a touch of cinnamon, this crunchy granola makes a delicious topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls. It's also perfect for granola bars and makes a yummy addition to homemade trail mix. I can even be eaten as a cereal.

    A bowl of yogurt topped with granola surrounded by spilled oats, an overflowing bowl of blueberries a linen cloth and a baking sheet with more freshly baked granola.

    Is Homemade Granola Healthy?

    This Simple Homemade Granola is made without refined sugars and just a handful of minimal whole-food ingredients, making it a much healthier and low-sugar option than many store-bought brands.

    Plus, oats are a nutritious grain that's great for heart health and blood sugar regulation.

    Health Benefits

    Fibre-rich. Oats are an excellent source of both soluble and dietary fibre. Unlike many grains, the hulling process leaves both their germ and bran intact. This means the bulk of their fibre and nutrients also remain intact.

    Mineral-rich. Oats are a great source of many minerals, including magnesium, selenium, potassium and calcium.

    Heart-healthy. Oats are a rich source of nutrients that can support heart health, including potassium, the soluble fibre beta-glucan, and a group of antioxidants called avenanthramides.

    Blood-sugar balancing. Cinnamon and the soluble fibre beta-glucan can have positive effects when it comes to blood sugar balance. This granola is also lightly sweetened with pure maple syrup, making it a low-sugar option.

    Restorative properties. Oats have traditionally been used for their restorative properties to support digestive, reproductive and nervous system health.

    Seasonal Benefits

    Spring and summer are great times to enjoy this Granola with fresh seasonal berries and yogurt.

    Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to reap the warming benefits of cinnamon and the nourishing qualities of oats.

    How to Make Homemade Granola Without Honey

    As mentioned above, this Homemade Granola is incredibly simple to make. It only requires 6 ingredients and about 20 minutes. Follow the steps below or watch the video.

    A baking sheet with evenly spread oats ready to be baked.

    What You Will Need

    Equipment

    • Baking sheet to bake the Granola on. A 9" x 13" will hold a single batch of the recipe. A glass baking dish will also work.
    • Unbleached parchment paper (optional) to prevent sticking. You can also grease a stainless steel baking sheet or a glass baking dish.
    • Oven to bake the Granola.
    • Mixing bowl to combine the ingredients and evenly coat the oats with coconut oil and maple syrup.
    • Wooden spoon for stirring the ingredients together. A spatula will also work.
    • Measuring utensils for accuracy.

    Ingredients

    • Old-fashioned rolled oats are the main ingredient in this basic granola.
    • Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a naturally sweet and toasty flavour.
    • Pure maple syrup lightly sweetens this granola and helps bind the ingredients together.
    • Unrefined coconut oil helps to bind the ingredients together while providing a delicious flavour and healthy fats.
    • Ground cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and natural sweetness that complements the toasty, nutty flavour of oats.
    • Natural mineral salt helps to bring the flavours together. Only a pinch is needed.

    Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

    First, preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with a bit of extra coconut oil.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened shredded coconut, ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt.

    The process of mixing the ingredients of homemade granola.

    Step 2: Stir In Remaining Ingredients

    Next, stir in the melted coconut oil and pure maple syrup. Mix well, making sure the oats are evenly coated.

    The process of mixing baking homemade granola.

    Step 3: Bake

    Once all the ingredients are combined, spread evenly onto the parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.

    Then, bake in the oven for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through (approximately at the 7-minute mark). Once the Granola has slightly browned to a golden colour, it is ready to be removed from the oven.

    The coconut will begin to brown first, and the oats will take on a slight golden hue. Don't worry if they don't look toasty enough. They will continue to cook and crisp up as they cool. You don't want to overcook the granola (as I have done plenty of times) to avoid a burnt flavour.

    After removing the Granola from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before handling. If you plan to store it for later use, allow it to cool fully before sealing to avoid a soggy texture from trapped moisture.

    My Top Tips

    • Use organic oats to avoid harmful pesticides and herbicides.
    • Use certified gluten-free oats if you are sensitive to gluten or wheat or have celiac disease.
    • Don't overbake to avoid a burnt flavour. The oats will only slightly change colour to a light golden brown when they are ready.
    • Stir halfway through to ensure an even bake and avoid burnt bottoms.
    • Don't overcrowd to ensure crispiness. Make sure the pan or dish you use is large enough to spread the Granola evenly in a single layer for even baking and the crispiest texture.

    Subsitutions & Variations

    Use raw honey in place of the maple syrup if you do not need your Granola to be vegan.

    Omit the shredded coconut if you do not have any on hand. No adjustments need to be made.

    Add chia seeds or hemp hearts for a source of protein and healthy fats.

    An overflowing of homemade granola sitting next to a spoonful of spilled oats, a bowl of shredded coconut and a heaping bowl of blueberries.

    How to Store Homemade Granola

    To store Homemade Granola, allow it to fully cool before sealing to maintain its crispness. Keep it in an airtight container in a dry place at room temperature.

    I prefer to store mine in glass to prevent any flavours or toxins that can leach from plastic. I also find that glass is the best way to keep a fresh flavour and a crisp crunch.

    A bowl of yogurt and granola beside a bowl of coconut, a baking sheet with freshly baked granola, a bowl of overflowing blueberries and spoonful of spilled oats.

    How Long Does Homemade Granola Last

    This Homemade Granola can last up to 2 months if sealed in an airtight container and stored in a dry place at room temperature. However, I find that it is best consumed within 3 - 4 weeks for the freshest flavour.

    You can also freeze this granola for up to 3 months! But, do be aware that freezing may slightly reduce the crunchiness after thawing. Make sure it is fully thawed after freezing before consuming.

    A bowl filled with yogurt topped with granola sitting in front of a spoon of spilled granola.

    Ways to Use Homemade Granola

    There are plenty of ways to use Homemade Granola. One of my favourite ways to enjoy it is topped on yogurt with fresh fruit. It also makes a delicious topping for smoothie bowls, chia pudding and peaches and cream. This basic granola recipe is also perfect for making homemade granola bars.

    FAQs

    Does homemade granola need to be refrigerated?

    No, homemade granola does not need to be refrigerated. To maintain a crispy, crunchy texture, I find it best sealed in an airtight container and stored at room temperature in a dry cupboard or pantry.

    Can I omit the shredded coconut?

    Yes! You can omit the shredded coconut in this recipe. There's no need to change any ratios or make any adjustments. However, if you'd like, you can add chia seeds or hemp hearts instead.

    Why is my homemade granola not crunchy?

    There are a few reasons homemade granola may not be crunchy. If it is not crunchy right after cooling, it may need a few more minutes in the oven. It could have also been overcrowded while baking. Make sure the pan or baking dish is large enough to spread the granola out evenly in one single layer.

    However, if it loses its crunch after storing, it may have been sealed while still warm, which can trap in moisture. It may also have been exposed to moisture due to not being sealed tightly enough. To prevent this from happening, make sure it is stored in an airtight container and allow it to fully cool before sealing.

    If you have stored your granola in the fridge or freezer, it can lose its crunch after warming back up to room temperature. If this happens, you can pop it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp it back up. Be sure to keep a close eye on it, so it doesn't overcook or burn.

    Recipe Highlights

    Refined sugar free. Lightly sweetened with pure maple syrup, this Granola is a low-sugar option that's free of heavily refined sugars.

    Heart-healthy. Oats are a great source of soluble fibre that can be beneficial to heart health.

    Warming. With a dash of cinnamon, this Granola offers a touch of warmth for the cooler seasons.

    Quick and easy to make. This Homemade Granola only takes a few minutes of hands-on time and 15 minutes in the oven.

    More Oat Recipes

    • Peaches and Cream with Crunchy Oat Topping
    • Homemade Oat Flour Graham Crackers
    • Easy Homemade Blender Oat Flour
    A bowl of yogurt and granola surrounded by an overflowing spoonful, a baking sheet, a bowl of blueberries, shredded coconut and a linen cloth.

    If you make this Simple Homemade Granola, let me know how it turns out by leaving a comment and rating below. Also, make sure you're following along on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook and Flipboard for more wildly nutritious recipes!

    A labelled jar overflowing with granola.

    Simple Homemade Granola (Nut-Free, No Honey)

    Recipe By : Michelle McCowan
    4 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe
    This Simple Homemade Granola is incredibly quick and easy to make! Made with just 6 real-food ingredients and no honey, it's naturally vegan and nut-free.
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Pin Recipe Rate Recipe Watch Video
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 20 minutes mins
    Dietary DF, Nut Free, Soy Free, Vegan
    Season(s) All Seasons
    Difficulty Easy
    Yield ½ Quart

    Equipment

    • Mixing Bowl
    • Baking Sheet
    • Parchment Paper
    • Wooden Spoon / Spatula
    • Measuring Cups & Spoons
    • Oven

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cups Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (Organic & Certified Gluten-Free)
    • ¼ cup Unsweetened Shredded Coconut
    • 2 tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup
    • ¼ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
    • 3 tablespoon Unrefined Coconut Oil (Melted)
    • Pinch of Himayalan Salt (or Other Natural Mineral Salt)

    Instructions
     

    • First, preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with a bit of extra coconut oil.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened shredded coconut, ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt.
    • Next, stir in the melted coconut oil and pure maple syrup. Mix well, making sure the oats are evenly coated.
    • Once all the ingredients are combined, spread evenly onto the parchment-lined or greased baking sheet. 
      Then, bake in the oven for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through (approximately at the 7-minute mark). Once the Granola has slightly browned to a golden colour, it is ready to be removed from the oven.
      The coconut will begin to brown first, and the oats will take on a slight golden hue. Don't worry if they don't look toasty enough. They will continue to cook and crisp up as they cool. You don't want to overcook the granola (as I have done plenty of times) to avoid a burnt flavour.
      After removing the Granola from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before handling. If you plan to store it for later use, allow it to cool fully before sealing to avoid a soggy texture from trapped moisture.
    • After removing the Granola from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before handling. If you plan to store it for later use, allow it to cool fully before sealing to avoid a soggy texture from trapped moisture.

    Notes

    Use raw honey in place of the maple syrup if you do not need your Granola to be vegan.
    Omit the shredded coconut if you do not have any on hand. No adjustments need to be made.
    Add chia seeds or hemp hearts for a source of protein and healthy fats.
    Use organic oats to avoid harmful pesticides and herbicides.
    Use certified gluten-free oats if you are sensitive to gluten or wheat or have celiac disease.
    Don't overbake to avoid a burnt flavour. The oats will only slightly change colour to a light golden brown when they are ready.
    Stir halfway through to ensure an even bake and avoid burnt bottoms.
    Don't overcrowd to ensure crispiness. Make sure the pan or dish you use is large enough to spread the Granola evenly in a single layer for even baking and the crispiest texture.
    To store this Homemade Granola, allow it to fully cool before sealing to maintain its crispness. Keep it in an airtight container in a dry place at room temperature for up to 2 months. I prefer to store mine in glass to prevent any flavours or toxins that can leach from plastic. I also find that glass is the best way to keep a fresh flavour and a crisp crunch.

    Watch the Video!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.25cup | Calories: 118kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 68mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 0.2IU | Vitamin C: 0.05mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
    Total Servings : 8
    HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE?I’d love to know what you think! Leave a rating and comment to share how it turned out.

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    Posted by Michelle McCowan on October 23, 2022

    Comments

      4 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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    1. Sandy says

      October 24, 2022 at 6:23 pm

      Awesome. Going to give it a try ❤

      Reply
      • Michelle McCowan says

        October 25, 2022 at 3:44 pm

        Yay! I hope you enjoy ♡

        Reply
    2. Jagoda says

      September 08, 2024 at 9:16 am

      Can you skip the coconut shreds? Or should you swap them for more oats? And if so, will the bake time change? 🙂

      Reply
      • Michelle McCowan says

        September 08, 2024 at 1:44 pm

        You can most definitely skip the shredded coconut and you can cook exactly as directed. No need to add extra oats or adjust the baking time 🙂

        Reply
        • Jagoda says

          September 09, 2024 at 1:18 pm

          Thank you for a thorough answer, will definitely try these soon!

          Reply
          • Michelle McCowan says

            September 13, 2024 at 12:59 pm

            No problem! I hope you enjoy the granola as much as I do 🙂

            Reply
    A woman preparing whole foods on a rustic table with fresh beets and beet greens.

    Welcome! I'm Michelle, a photographer and nutritionally trained recipe developer who believes in the power of real food, dancing to nature's rhythm, and tuning into our wild roots through simple, slow, and natural living. One of my greatest passions is creating tasty recipes that utilize whole foods and minimally processed ingredients, along with sharing easy-to-digest information that simplifies healthy eating, home cooking, and natural wellness.

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