Granola Clusters

I have been making all sorts of granola bars lately, but the one problem with bars is that they tend to be crumbly. When you want a pop-in-your-mouth treat with zero chance of crumbs, a switch to granola clusters will do the trick. Although they take longer to create than do bars, clusters are perfect for in the car or school lunches.

This recipe makes approximately 60 1-inch clusters.

1 cup pecans
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup almond meal
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup honey
3 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a food processor, combine pecans, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Pulse to a coarse meal.

In a medium bowl, combine the processed mixture with almond meal, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to combine. Add dried cranberries and stir to mix.

In a small bowl, combine honey, peanut butter, water, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Add this to the dry ingredients and mix well.

Using wet hands (makes it a lot easier), form dough into 1-inch balls or clusters. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely before eating or storing.


Find more great recipes at Healthy Recipes, Tickled Pink, Friday Favorites, Foodie Friday and Chic and Crafty.