Name: Pina Colada Granola Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 7
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 cup pecans; ½ cup honey; 2 tbsp coconut oil; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; 1½ cups coconut flakes; 1 cup diced dried pineapple

Welcome to the tropical delight of a granola recipe! Transport yourself to the sunny beaches with this unique pina colada granola recipe. Bursting with flavors of pineapple, coconut, and a hint of vanilla, it's a healthy, easy to make, and delicious snack packed with nutrients and tropical vibes.

Photos of Pina Colada Granola Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are easy to find, dried pineapple and coconut flakes may not be readily available in every pantry. You may find them in the dried fruit or baking section of your local supermarket. They are key to adding the tropical flair to your granola.

Ingredients for Pina Colada Granola

Old-fashioned oats: These oats are whole grain and provide a chewy texture to your granola.

Pecans: Pecans add a crunchy texture and rich, buttery flavor.

Honey: Sweetens the granola naturally.

Coconut oil: Provides a subtle coconut flavor and helps to crisp up the granola.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spiciness to the mix.

Vanilla extract: Gives a sweet, creamy flavor, enhancing the other flavors.

Salt: Brings out the sweet and savory flavors of the other ingredients.

Coconut flakes: Gives the granola a tropical taste and a crunchy texture.

Dried pineapple: Adds a chewy texture and sweet, tart flavor.

One reader, Judas Fort says:

This pina colada granola recipe is a tropical delight! The combination of coconut, pineapple, and pecans creates a deliciously sweet and crunchy granola that's perfect for breakfast or snacking. The aroma alone will transport you to a sunny beach. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a taste of the tropics!

Judas Fort

Techniques Required for Making Pina Colada Granola

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.

Mix the ingredients: Combine the oats, pecans, honey, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Bake the granola: Spread the mixture onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, sprinkle coconut flakes on top of the granola, gently stir them in, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the coconut is toasted and the granola is cooked.

Add dried pineapple: Once the granola has cooled to room temperature, add in the diced dried pineapple and toss to combine.

Storage: Store the granola in a sealed container and it will keep for up to 3 weeks.

How To Make Pina Colada Granola

Adding fruits to the classic granola bars adds not only flavor but also nutritional value. Prepare this healthy, low-fat granola for breakfast.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4cupsold-fashioned oats,or gluten-free oats
1cuppecans,or almonds, walnuts, etc.
½cuphoney
2tbspcoconut oil,melted
½tspground cinnamon
½tspvanilla extract,store-bought or homemade
¼tspsalt
1½cupscoconut flakes
1cupdiced dried pineapple,I used Nature Box

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, pecans, honey, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until evenly combined.
Spread mixture out on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove sheet, sprinkle coconut flakes on top of the granola, and gently stir them into the mix.
Return the sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until coconut is toasted and the granola is cooked.
Remove sheet from oven and let cool to room temperature. Add in diced dried pineapple, and toss to combine.
Store in a sealed container and keep for up to 3 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 507.76kcal
Fat: 28.99g
Saturated Fat: 15.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.32g
Carbohydrates: 60.67g
Fiber: 9.10g
Sugar: 24.80g
Protein: 9.02g
Sodium: 92.41mg
Calcium: 42.58mg
Potassium: 360.09mg
Iron: 3.27mg
Vitamin A: 1.16µg
Vitamin C: 11.82mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Pina Colada Granola

To ensure your granola achieves the perfect level of crunchiness without burning, keep a close eye on it during the final stages of baking. The coconut flakes can toast quickly and may need to be stirred occasionally to prevent them from burning. Also, adding the dried pineapple after the granola has cooled will maintain its chewy texture, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy granola.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Granola Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and measure them out before you start making the granola. This will help you work more efficiently and save time.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the pecans and dice the dried pineapple quickly and evenly.

Set a timer: Set a timer for each step of the recipe to ensure you don't overcook or undercook the granola, allowing you to multitask while it bakes.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Pina Colada Granola Recipe

old-fashioned oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor.
pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans, providing a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the granola.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey, providing sweetness and moisture to the granola.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to coconut oil, providing a mild flavor and moisture to the granola.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, providing a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the granola.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used to add a nutty flavor to the granola, similar to the vanilla extract.
coconut flakes - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the granola, replacing the coconut flakes.
diced dried pineapple - Substitute with dried mango: Dried mango can be used as a substitute for dried pineapple, providing a sweet and tropical flavor to the granola.

Best Way to Present Pina Colada Granola

Elevate the granola: Present the granola in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to showcase its texture and colors. Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for an added visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh pineapple: Place a few small wedges of fresh pineapple on the side of the bowl to add a pop of color and a burst of tropical flavor to the dish.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Serve the granola on a sleek, modern plate to create a sophisticated and refined presentation that reflects the high-quality ingredients used in the recipe.
Utilize natural elements: Arrange the granola on a wooden serving board or platter to bring a rustic and organic feel to the presentation, complementing the wholesome flavors of the dish.
Add a touch of flair with edible flowers: Garnish the granola with a few delicate edible flowers, such as orchids or pansies, to introduce a touch of elegance and a subtle floral aroma to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Pina Colada Granola

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by providing dry heat.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet used to bake cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Aluminum foil or parchment paper: Used to line the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Large mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for the recipe.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for mixing, spreading, and turning.
Sealed container: Used for storing the granola to keep it fresh.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Granola

Allow the granola to cool completely before storing. This will help maintain its crunchiness and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store the cooled pina colada granola in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors or moisture from the environment.
When stored properly in an airtight container, the granola can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. However, if you live in a particularly humid environment, consider storing it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
If you want to keep the granola for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option:
- Transfer the cooled granola to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date of preparation, so you can easily keep track of how long it has been stored.
- When properly frozen, the granola can be kept for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen granola, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and allow it to come to room temperature. If you notice any excess moisture or clumping, you can spread the granola on a baking sheet and place it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crunchiness.
Whether storing at room temperature or in the freezer, always ensure that the container or bag is tightly sealed to maintain the quality and freshness of your pina colada granola.

How To Reheat Leftover Granola

To reheat leftover pina colada granola, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the granola is warm and slightly toasted. This method will help restore the granola's crunchiness and bring out the flavors of the coconut and dried pineapple.
For a quicker reheating option, use a microwave. Place a portion of the leftover granola in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the granola is warm and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overheat the granola, as it may become chewy or burn.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, you can reheat the granola in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of coconut oil or butter to the skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Add the leftover granola and stir continuously for 3-5 minutes, until the granola is warm and slightly softened. This method will give the granola a more moist and chewy consistency.
For a no-heat option, you can enjoy the leftover granola as a topping for yogurt, smoothie bowls, or ice cream. The contrast between the cold base and the room-temperature granola will create an interesting texture and flavor combination, reminiscent of a deconstructed pina colada dessert.

Random Fact About Pina Colada Granola

Pina Colada Granola is a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Is Making Pina Colada Granola at Home Cost-Effective?

This pina colada granola recipe is cost-effective for a household. With affordable ingredients like oats, honey, and coconut flakes, it offers a budget-friendly option for a delicious breakfast or snack. The use of pantry staples and dried fruits makes it a practical choice for families. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical and tasty choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Granola Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pina colada granola recipe is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients, but it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Let's break it down:

Healthy components:

Oats are a great source of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates
Pecans provide healthy fats, protein, and various nutrients
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar
Coconut flakes contain healthy fats and dietary fiber

Less healthy components:

Honey, while natural, is still a form of added sugar
Coconut oil is high in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation
Dried pineapple contains concentrated sugars due to the drying process

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey to 1/3 cup and replace the remaining sweetness with a mashed ripe banana or unsweetened applesauce
Swap coconut oil with a heart-healthy oil like avocado or olive oil
Increase the cinnamon to 1 teaspoon for added flavor and potential health benefits
Use unsweetened coconut flakes to reduce the sugar content
Replace half of the dried pineapple with fresh or frozen pineapple chunks for a burst of natural sweetness and added moisture
Add 1/4 cup of chia seeds or ground flaxseed for an extra boost of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids
Experiment with adding other dried fruits like goji berries or mulberries for variety and additional nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on This Pina Colada Granola Recipe

The pina colada granola recipe is a delightful tropical twist on traditional granola. The combination of oats, pecans, honey, coconut, and dried pineapple creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The toasting process enhances the nuttiness of the pecans and the sweetness of the coconut, while the dried pineapple adds a burst of fruity goodness. The use of coconut oil and honey provides a subtle sweetness and a delightful crunch. This granola is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and the aroma of coconut and pineapple will transport you to a sunny beach. It's a delightful and satisfying treat that's sure to brighten your day.

Enhance Your Pina Colada Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and kiwi. Drizzle with a coconut milk and lime dressing for an extra pina colada flavor.

Coconut Shrimp: Serve up some crispy coconut shrimp as a crunchy and savory accompaniment to the sweet pina colada granola. The combination of flavors and textures will be a hit!

Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Thread marinated chunks of chicken and pineapple onto skewers and grill them to perfection. The juicy, tangy pineapple will complement the tropical flavors of the granola.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Pina Colada Granola

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful salsa.

Coconut Curry Chicken: Simmer chicken in a creamy coconut curry sauce with onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices for a comforting and aromatic dish.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Layer sliced pineapple and maraschino cherries on the bottom of a cake pan, pour a buttery brown sugar mixture over the fruit, and top with a moist vanilla cake batter for a classic and indulgent dessert.

Why trust this Pina Colada Granola Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for all granola lovers. The combination of coconut, pineapple, and pecans creates a tropical paradise in every bite. The use of honey and coconut oil adds a natural sweetness and richness, while the cinnamon and vanilla extract bring warm and aromatic flavors. The addition of dried pineapple provides a burst of fruity goodness. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous baking process to deliver a delightful and wholesome granola that will surely become a favorite.

Share your thoughts and experiences making this Pina Colada Granola Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What can I substitute for pecans in this recipe?

You can substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or any other nuts of your choice.

Can I use sweetened coconut flakes instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened coconut flakes, but you may want to adjust the amount of honey in the recipe to balance the sweetness.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of dried pineapple?

Fresh pineapple contains more moisture than dried pineapple, which may affect the texture of the granola. It's best to use dried pineapple for this recipe.

How can I make this granola more crunchy?

To make the granola more crunchy, you can bake it for a few extra minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I add other dried fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding dried mango, papaya, or any other dried fruits you enjoy. Just make sure to dice them to a similar size as the pineapple for even distribution.