Delicious, Healthy Banana Coconut Granola

by ThatCleanLife

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Granola is one of those foods that seems to have a ‘health halo’ around it. It's generally
regarded as a healthy food, without much question.

But, like other foods sporting a ‘health halo,’ granola isn’t always the healthy choice it’s
cracked up to be. While we're all about treating yo' self, we think it's important to know
when you're making a healthy choice, and when you're being tricked by marketing.

The truth is that granola is usually made up mostly of cheap filler ingredients like canola
oil and cane sugar. In fact, one serving of the average store bought granola clocks in at
about 7 grams of added sugar per serving, which measures out to approximately ¼ cup
or 4 tablespoons.

I mean, have you ever eaten just 4 tablespoons of granola?!

Since we love granola, we decided to make a super delicious version with ZERO added
sugar, not even maple syrup. Instead, we've opted to sweeten this granola with one simple,
natural ingredient: banana!

But don't worry. Even though we've skipped the added sugar, it doesn't feel or taste like
it's missing anything at all. I mean, just LOOK at those clusters!

So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch (or two) of our insanely delicious Banana
Coconut Granola and enjoy the sweet, crunchy, whole grain goodness all week long.

Before we get to the recipe, here are some delicious ways you can integrate it into your
meal plan throughout the week!

1. Granola & Almond Milk

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance breakfast, serve some granola with ice-cold
almond milk and banana slices. It’s easy enough for busy weekday meals, but also
indulgent enough for a weekend brunch spread.

Learn how to make your own almond milk here.

2. Granola & Yogurt Parfait with Berries

Need a high-protein snack? Try topping Greek yogurt with crunchy granola along
with fresh berries.

If dairy isn’t your thing, go ahead and use a plant-based yogurt, like coconut.
The granola itself has about 10 grams of protein per serving, so you’re not missing out.

3. Granola Mason Jars to Go

When you’re on-the-go, just layer your favourite parfait ingredients into mason jars
for a portable breakfast, snack, or even lunch (we’re not judging).

4. Alone as a Crunchy Snack

When life gets busy, just keep it simple. Throw some dry granola into a container
or jar, then into your purse or backpack it goes. It makes an awesome pre or post
workout snack!

Banana Coconut Granola

Serves: 6
Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups oats (rolled or old-fashioned)
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 ripe banana (mashed)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 300F.
• In a large bowl, combine the oats, coconut flakes, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon 
• and sea salt.
• Pour the mashed banana and coconut oil into the bowl with the oat mixture. 
• Use a spoon to stir until all is very well combined. The mixture should be evenly coated.
• Spread mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet. Press down slightly 
• Bake for 45-55 minutes, checking and tossing every 15 minutes. 
• Break up large clusters if necessary. 
• Do not over-bake.
• Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature
•  Eat during the week or store in the freezer for a few months.

Want more deliciousness like this?  Go to by ThatCleanLife