Coconut Cranberry Granola Clusters

There is something satisfying about the crunch when you bite into a granola cluster. I designed this recipe to replicate one of my favorite store-bought coconut cranberry granolas (from Trader Joe's). These granola clusters are very close to the store-bought version in flavor and texture. And, they're more economical to boot.

Coconut granola clusters are a scrumptious combination of oats, sweetened shredded coconut, and dried cranberries. An additional oomph of coconut flavor comes from nutritious, delicious coconut oil. This recipe is simple to prepare and ready in only thirty minutes.

If you are looking for additional easy granola recipes, look no further. These Chocolate Coconut Pecan Granola Clusters and this deliciously sweet Coconut Chocolate Chip Granola are some other yummy coconut-inspired recipes you need to try!

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are the oats of choice most of the time when baking. Why? They hold their shape better when baked in the oven. Visually, you can see the difference between old-fashioned oats and quick-cooking oats. Quick-cooking oats are cut into more pieces during processing, in addition to being rolled thinner. For the purpose of this recipe, the structure of old-fashioned rolled oats is necessary.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut - For less sweet granola, use unsweetened coconut.
• Dried Cranberries
• Ground Cinnamon - It adds a lovely overall flavor to the granola. Ultimately, the cinnamon is optional.
• Maple Syrup - Other sugar substitutes include light brown sugar and coconut sugar. If using sugar, incorporate it along with the other dry ingredients.
• Coconut Oil (melted) - While fulfilling its duty as the primary fat in this recipe, coconut oil adds to the overall coconut flavor of the clusters. It can be substituted with another oil, such as avocado oil, but it will dilute the coconut flavor profile of this recipe.

How to Make Coconut Cranberry Granola Clusters

This recipe is really simple and quick to put together.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet tray with a sheet of parchment or a Silpat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, dried cranberries, and cinnamon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut oil and maple syrup. Pour the liquid ingredients over the oat mixture, and stir together until everything is coated.
4. Pour the oat mixture onto the center of the prepared baking sheet.
5. With your hands or a rubber spatula, flatten and press the granola down into a tight rectangle.
6. Press everything together as much as you can, almost like a giant granola bar. This process is what is going to give you those lovely clusters of granola.
7. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Rotate the pan, and bake for 15 more minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Once cooled, break into clusters. You may have some bits that break off.

Tips for Success

For the best shelf-life, store the coconut cranberry granola clusters in an airtight container or tightly sealed mason jar in a cold, dark place.

Pulse the coconut in a food processor for smaller pieces and better incorporation.

If using your hands to press the granola together, place a square of wax paper between the granola and your hands. This will keep your hands from becoming sticky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade granola clusters stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container, granola stays fresh for up to one week. Afterward, it will begin to slowly lose its freshness. To extend shelflife, store the granola in the refrigerator.

How should I store homemade coconut granola? Store granola in an airtight container or tightly sealed mason jar. Store at room temperature in a cool dark place. To extend the shelf life, you can also store the granola in the refrigerator. Granola is freezable too. Transfer it to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to melt coconut oil? In a microwave-safe dish, microwave the oil at 50-percent powder in 15-30 second intervals until melted.

These coconut cranberry granola clusters have a lovely coconut flavor. They're a healthy addition to your day, whether as part of your breakfast or as your afternoon snack. Breakfast is calling, so why not make a batch of these delightful granola clusters!

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE? Please leave a star rating and review on my website!