This is probably one of our top five recipes that require a lot of time. However, most of the time is “waiting”.
Allan prefers muesli to granola. I enjoy muesli, but I like the crunch of granola. So, when I discovered dehydrating granola, instead of baking it, we tried it. It is a favorite, and I make it when I have the extra time.
I use raw nuts in this recipe because I soak them and then dehydrate for a different taste to the nuts. I have also learned that soaking and dehydrated seeds are often recommended because of health benefits. If you are interested in learning more, a lot of research can be done online. I would recommend dehydrating as much as your machine will hold at one time to save on time later.
Be creative when personalizing this recipes. Macadamia and hazelnuts are good nuts to add. Cocoa nibs and dried tart cherries are great additions. Use more oats and less nuts if desired. If you want to use less maple syrup, increase amount of raisin “slurry”. If you prefer to bake this, see notes. This is a very adaptable recipe.
- 6 c oats
- 2 c almonds raw
- 1 c walnuts raw
- 1 c pecans raw
- 1 c pepitas raw
- 1 1/2 c raisins
- 1 1/2 -2 c Water
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp candied ginger or dried ginger
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 c coconut flakes unsweetened
- 3/4 c maple syrup
- 2 Tbl coconut oil
- 1 1/2 c mixed dried fruit
- ¼ c cacao nibs
- Plan ahead for this recipe, it takes time.
- Soak all nuts separately.
- Soak almonds in water overnight or up to 24 hours.
- Soak walnuts, pecans and pepitas for 4-7 hours.
- Drain and rinse nuts and dehydrate overnight at 105 degrees F.
- Even if not completely dry, that is okay.
- Pulse nuts and pepitas until coarsely chopped, like granola.
- Set aside.
- Soak raisins in water a few hours or overnight.
- Place raisins and soaking water in food processor and process until smooth.
- Mix together nuts, pepitas, coconut flakes and raisin "slurry".
- Mix in cinnamon, ginger, and salt over the top.
- Drizzle the maple syrup and coconut oil, mixing until everything is well coated .
- Divide onto lined dehydrator trays in a thin layer.
- After 6 hours or so of drying, add dried fruit and cocoa nibs if using.
- Dehydrate until completely dry.
- Store in airtight container for a couple of weeks.
- This is good by the handful or served over greek yogurt.
Prefer to Bake?
Use whatever nuts you have on hand and skip the soaking /drying steps. Mix all ingredients except bite sized fruit and coconut. Bake at 350 for about an hour. Stir every 15 minutes for 30 minutes and then add dried fruit and coconut. Continue baking and stirring until granola is dry, golden brown and slightly crunch. Cool completely before storing.