Trail Mix Granola

As I said above, this recipe is the ultimate summer snack. It's sweet, salty, and easily packed into a backpack for hikes or a picnic basket for the beach.

I offer a few variations for this recipe along with substitutions. It's sure to please everyone in the family!

• gluten-free rolled or quick oats
• coconut flour
• baking powder
• maple syrup or honey
• coconut oil
• pumpkin seeds
• raisins
• dried cranberries
• sunflower seeds
• chocolate chips
• sea salt

See the recipe card for quantities.

1. The first step to making trail mix granola is to mix together the gluten-free rolled or quick oats, coconut flour, baking powder, and sea salt.
2. Next, add in the maple syrup, and melted coconut oil, and mix to combine.
3. Next, fold in the pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Spread the granola mixture out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Place in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Halfway through the baking, stir the granola then continue baking until golden brown and crunchy.
5. Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely. While the granola is cooling, melt the chocolate chips then drizzle over top. Optional: sprinkle sea salt over the melted chocolate for extra saltiness.
6. Lastly, once the chocolate has hardened, break it into chunks and enjoy!

Watch the full recipe video here.

Hint: use coarse sea salt. Salt enhances the sweetness in this recipe giving it a great contrast.

If you know how to make the recipe fit a certain diet, let the reader know here. Don't fake it - only provide guidance on topics you have actual experience with.

• Using other nuts and seeds - any combination of nuts or seeds can be used for this granola as long as the total yield is around ½-3/4 cup.
• White chocolate granola - use white chocolate chips rather than semi-sweet chocolate chips or a combination of both
• Other dried fruits - feel free to substitute any of the fruit in the recipe. Chopped banana chips, cut-up dried mango, dried blueberries, or even large pieces of dates will keep the recipe exciting!

Make sure to check out this trail mix granola bar recipe from Downshiftology. It is sooo good!

You most likely already have everything you need to make this recipe. Here is a list just in case:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl - these All-Clad mixing bowls are my favorite! I have two sets and have had them for years and love the handle.
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups - All-Clad is one of my favorite cooking brands and love these measuring cups.

Trail mix granola can be stored in an airtight container for up to a month. Store in a dark and cool place.

For more easy and healthy snack recipes, make sure to check out Date Tahini Cookies, Breakfast Cookies, and Morning Glory Muffins.