Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe

Tropical Coconut Granola is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy snack. The Greek yogurt covered raisins add a tangy twist, making this granola truly unique and delicious.

Most ingredients of this recipe like oatmeal, almonds, honey, coconut oil, and brown sugar are quite common and easily available. One ingredient that may not be commonly found in every kitchen is the Greek yogurt covered raisins. You may have to specifically look for them in the dried fruits section or health food aisle in the supermarket.

Ingredients for Tropical Coconut Granola

oatmeal: High in fiber and perfect base for any granola recipe.

almonds: They add a nice crunch and are packed with nutrients.

honey: Natural sweetener which also helps to bind the granola together.

coconut oil: Used for its tropical flavor. It also aids in binding the mixture.

brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.

vanilla extract: Provides a depth of flavor.

salt: Balances the sweetness of the granola.

coconut: Adds a chewy texture and tropical flavor.

Greek yogurt covered raisins: Provides a tangy flavor twist.

One reader, Laraine Ridgeway says:

This tropical coconut granola recipe is a game-changer! The combination of coconut, almonds, and greek yogurt-covered raisins creates a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. The aroma while baking is heavenly. It's now a staple in my breakfast routine, and I love how easy it is to customize. Highly recommended!

Laraine Ridgeway

Techniques Required for Making Tropical Coconut Granola

How to prepare the granola mixture: Combine the honey, coconut oil, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium-sized bowl, then microwave the mixture for 15 seconds and stir until well combined.

How to bake the granola: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 325 degrees F for 20 to 30 minutes, flipping and stirring the granola every 6 to 8 minutes.

How to add the final ingredients: After removing the granola from the oven and allowing it to harden, stir in the flaked coconut and Greek yogurt-covered raisins.

How To Make Tropical Coconut Granola

Simple, quick, and delicious; this coconut granola is loaded with yogurt-covered raisins, almonds, and oatmeal, for a delightful breakfast dish!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupsold fashioned oatmeal
¾cupalmonds,slivered
6tbsphoney
5tbspcoconut oil
6tbspbrown sugar
1tspvanilla extract
pinchsalt
½cupcoconut,flaked
½cupGreek yogurt covered raisins

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine the oats and slivered almonds and set aside.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, coconut oil, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Microwave mixture for 15 seconds and stir until well combined.
Pour the honey mixture into the oat and almond mixture and stir until well combined.
Spread the granola evenly onto a parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, making sure to flip and stir the granola around every 6 to 8 minutes.
Remove and allow the granola to harden and set up.
Stir in the flaked coconut and Greek-yogurt covered raisins, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 257.35kcal
Fat: 12.59g
Saturated Fat: 6.46g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.68g
Carbohydrates: 34.07g
Fiber: 3.71g
Sugar: 17.44g
Protein: 4.89g
Sodium: 138.62mg
Calcium: 42.57mg
Potassium: 207.97mg
Iron: 1.47mg
Vitamin C: 0.30mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Tropical Coconut Granola

When baking your granola, it's important to stir it every 6 to 8 minutes. This ensures even baking and prevents the granola from burning. Also, remember to allow the granola to cool completely before adding the coconut and greek yogurt covered raisins. This will prevent the raisins from melting and the coconut from becoming too toasted.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Granola Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cut or pre-sliced ingredients: Opt for pre-cut or pre-sliced ingredients, such as pre-sliced almonds or pre-cut fruits, to save time on preparation.

Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as preparing the granola while waiting for the oven to preheat or mixing the ingredients while the granola is baking.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe

old fashioned oatmeal - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to the granola while adding a boost of protein and nutrients.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can provide a creamy and slightly sweet flavor, complementing the coconut and honey in the granola.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar sweetness and depth of flavor, adding a rich caramelized taste to the granola.
coconut oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for coconut oil in this recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can provide a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor to the granola.
coconut - Substitute with dried pineapple: Dried pineapple can add a tropical sweetness and chewy texture, enhancing the tropical flavors in the granola.
greek yogurt covered raisins - Substitute with dried mango pieces: Dried mango pieces can offer a sweet and tangy flavor, adding a burst of tropical fruitiness to the granola.

Best Way to Present This Delightful Granola

Elevate the granola: Present the granola in a delicate, handcrafted ceramic bowl to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
Garnish with fresh fruits: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the granola with a vibrant assortment of tropical fruits, such as diced mango, pineapple, and papaya, arranged artfully on top of the granola.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of whimsy and beauty by incorporating delicate edible flowers as a garnish, such as hibiscus or orchid blossoms, to add a visually stunning element to the dish.
Serve with coconut yogurt: Present a dollop of creamy, homemade coconut yogurt on the side of the granola, adding a luxurious and indulgent component to the dish.
Use a wooden serving board: For a rustic and organic presentation, serve the granola on a wooden serving board, accompanied by small dishes of additional toppings such as toasted coconut flakes and honey for a customizable experience.
Create a parfait: Layer the granola with alternating spoonfuls of coconut yogurt and fresh tropical fruits in a clear glass to create a visually stunning and delectable parfait presentation.
Add a drizzle of honey: Before serving, delicately drizzle a swirl of golden honey over the granola to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.
Sprinkle with toasted coconut: Finish the presentation by sprinkling a generous amount of toasted coconut over the granola, adding a delightful crunch and a burst of tropical flavor to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Tropical Coconut Granola

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and mixing the granola mixture.
Measuring spoons and cups: To accurately measure the ingredients for the granola.
Baking sheet: Used to spread the granola mixture and bake it in the oven.
Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent the granola from sticking.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the honey mixture.
Spatula: For stirring and spreading the granola mixture on the baking sheet.
Oven: To bake the granola to perfection.
Cooling rack: For allowing the granola to cool and set up after baking.
Storage container: To store the finished granola.

Storing and Freezing Tropical Coconut Granola

Once the granola has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This will help maintain its crunchiness and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted moisture or odors.
If you want to keep your tropical coconut granola fresh for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Transfer the cooled granola to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen granola, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. You can also warm it up slightly in the oven or microwave if you prefer a toasty flavor. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing, but the delicious taste will still be there.
To maintain the freshness and crunchiness of your granola, avoid storing it in the refrigerator. The humid environment can cause the oats and nuts to become soft and stale quickly.
If you notice that your stored granola has lost some of its crunchiness over time, you can easily refresh it by spreading it on a baking sheet and placing it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes. Let it cool completely before storing it again in an airtight container.

How To Reheat Leftover Granola

The best way to reheat leftover tropical coconut granola is to spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until it's warm and crispy again. This method helps to restore the granola's crunchy texture and brings out the flavors of the coconut, almonds, and honey.
Another option is to reheat the granola in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir the granola constantly to prevent burning and ensure even heating. This method is quicker than the oven method and allows you to keep a closer eye on the granola to avoid over-toasting.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can microwave the leftover granola in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds to distribute the heat evenly. Be careful not to overheat the granola, as it can become chewy or rubbery.
For a quick and easy breakfast or snack, sprinkle the leftover granola over Greek yogurt or your favorite milk without reheating. The contrast between the cold yogurt or milk and the room-temperature granola creates an enjoyable texture and flavor combination.
If you find that your leftover granola has lost some of its crunch, you can try adding a handful of fresh nuts or seeds to the mixture before reheating. This will help to restore some of the texture and add an extra boost of flavor and nutrition to your granola.

Interesting Fact About Tropical Coconut Granola

The tropical coconut granola recipe is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option. It combines the goodness of oats, almonds, honey, coconut oil, and Greek yogurt-covered raisins. This recipe offers a perfect blend of crunchy and chewy textures, along with a delightful tropical flavor. The addition of coconut and greek yogurt-covered raisins provides a unique twist to the traditional granola recipe, making it a delightful and satisfying morning meal. This granola is a great source of energy and can be enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls. It's a versatile and flavorful option for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Is Making Tropical Coconut Granola at Home Cost-Effective?

This tropical coconut granola recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as oats, almonds, honey, and coconut, are generally affordable and can be bought in bulk. The addition of greek yogurt covered raisins may increase the cost slightly, but they add a delightful touch to the granola. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delightful tropical flavors.

Is Tropical Coconut Granola Healthy or Unhealthy?

This tropical coconut granola recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy ingredients:

Oatmeal: High in fiber, which can help with digestion and heart health
Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and various nutrients
Coconut: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism and support weight loss
Greek yogurt covered raisins: Provide some protein and calcium from the yogurt coating

Unhealthy ingredients:

Honey and brown sugar: Added sugars that can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess
Coconut oil: High in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels if consumed in large amounts

While this granola recipe includes some nutritious ingredients, it also contains a significant amount of added sugars and saturated fat.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar by half to lower the added sugar content
Replace some or all of the coconut oil with a healthier oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil
Increase the proportion of oats and almonds to boost the fiber and protein content
Add dried fruits like unsweetened dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for natural sweetness and additional nutrients
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients, such as chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or unsweetened shredded coconut, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile of the granola

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious granola that still satisfies your taste buds and provides a delightful crunch.

Editor's Opinion on the Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe

The tropical coconut granola recipe is a delightful blend of crunchy oats, nutty almonds, and sweet coconut, all bound together with a luscious mix of honey, coconut oil, and brown sugar. The addition of greek yogurt-covered raisins adds a delightful tangy sweetness. The granola is perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and a touch of salt, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The recipe's method of baking and stirring ensures a crispy texture and even toasting. This granola is a tropical paradise in a bowl, perfect for breakfast or snacking.

Enhance Your Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing tropical fruit salad with a mix of mango, pineapple, and papaya, drizzled with a coconut lime dressing.

Grilled Pineapple: Grill slices of pineapple and serve them alongside the tropical coconut granola for a sweet and smoky flavor combination.

Coconut Rice: Prepare a creamy coconut rice to complement the tropical flavors of the granola, adding a touch of savory sweetness to the dish.

Similar Recipes to Tropical Coconut Granola

Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and tangy salsa to serve with grilled fish or chicken.

Coconut Curry Soup: Simmer coconut milk, curry paste, vegetables, and your choice of protein for a creamy and flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Marinate chicken in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, then grill or bake for a sweet and savory dish that's sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse: Blend ripe avocados, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla extract for a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that's secretly healthy and delicious.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Homemade Granola

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and creamy cheese mixture and topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

Caprese Skewers: Indulge in these delightful caprese skewers, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please any pasta lover.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, packed with tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. This dish is a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a delightful and wholesome option for any meal.

Why trust this Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe:

This tropical coconut granola recipe offers a delightful blend of oats, almonds, honey, coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract that promises a symphony of flavors and textures. The careful instructions ensure a golden, crunchy granola that's perfect for breakfast or snacking. With the addition of coconut and greek yogurt covered raisins, this recipe captures the essence of a tropical paradise in every bite. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation to transport your taste buds to a tropical oasis.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Tropical Coconut Granola Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any variations or serving suggestions you may have!

FAQ:

Can I use different nuts in this granola recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use different nuts in this recipe. Feel free to substitute the almonds with your favorite nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Absolutely! You can substitute the honey with maple syrup if you prefer. It will add a delicious flavor to the granola.

How should I store the granola?

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks. You can also store it in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Can I omit the coconut in this recipe?

Yes, if you're not a fan of coconut, you can simply leave it out or replace it with another ingredient of your choice, such as dried cranberries or additional nuts.

Can I use regular raisins instead of greek yogurt covered raisins?

Of course! You can use regular raisins or any other dried fruit of your choice in place of the greek yogurt covered raisins. It's all about personal preference.