Oil-Free Granola is a nutrient-packed, crunchy and naturally sweet treat that combines whole-grain oats, slivered almonds, and chia seeds with the warm flavours of ground cinnamon and vanilla essence. Sweetened with pure maple syrup and filled with an assortment of dried fruits like apricots, sultanas, cranberries, and apple slices, this granola promises a deliciously wholesome start to your day or a satisfying snack any time. By eliminating added oils, this granola is a lighter yet equally satisfying choice, maintaining its crunch and flavour through a natural, healthy preparation method.
Health Benefits:
This granola is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with health-promoting ingredients. Wholegrain oats are an excellent source of dietary fibre, beta-glucans, and complex carbohydrates, which support heart health, help regulate cholesterol levels, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Slivered almonds add a boost of protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties that promote skin health and reduce inflammation. Chia seeds bring a high dose of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, contributing to bone health, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation.
The dried fruits, including apricots, sultanas, cranberries, and apples, deliver natural sweetness, along with a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as vitamins C and A, potassium, and polyphenols, which combat oxidative stress and support overall immune function. The warm ground cinnamon not only enhances the flavour but also offers blood sugar-regulating properties, making this granola a great option for maintaining healthy energy levels. While maple syrup serves as an all-natural sweetener with trace amounts of minerals like manganese and zinc, it keeps the sweetness subtle and refined sugar-free.
Being oil-free, this granola significantly reduces unnecessary calories from fats while retaining its texture and nutritional integrity, making it a healthier choice than traditional granola. Perfect as a breakfast cereal or eaten on its own as a snack, this oil-free granola is a high-energy, heart-healthy, and antioxidant-rich food that supports a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Oil-Free Granola
Ingredients
- 4 cups wholegrain oats
- 1 cup almond slivers
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried fruit eg. sliced apricots, sultanas, cranberries or apples
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or silicon liner.
- In a large bowl, mix in oats, almonds, chia seeds and cinnamon.
- Spread mix over the tray evenly, then pour over the maple syrup and vanilla essence, mixing it in with a spatula.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then stir before baking for a further 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and add the dried fruit while all is still warm, mixing right through.
- Allow to cool before transferring to airtight glass jars for up to a month if it lasts that long.