MAKES 24 SERVINGS | PREP TIME: 10 MINS | COOK TIME: 20 MIN
Do you make yourself birthday treats? I do, but not necessarily what you might expect. I order myself a cake instead of baking one, but I do like to start my special day with a homemade treat that helps me make the most of the day. My birthday is in January, so something that’s hearty and that features chocolate (of course!), is usually on the docket. This year it’s a vegan granola that is packed with some of my fave ingredients, like peanut butter, coconut and yes–chocolate chips. Enjoy it over yogurt or snack on it by itself. You can also mix it into a whole grain cereal that might need a little something, something to make it tasty.
Happy birthday to me!
Birthday Granola
2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
1/3 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 cup chia seeds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1/4 cup melted coconut oil (heat in microwave for up to 1 min if oil is solid)
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 320°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, almonds, chia seeds, cinnamon and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, honey and peanut butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry and stir until combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then stir with a spatula, making sure edges aren’t burning. Bake for another 10 minutes, then let cool for about 15 minutes before stirring in chocolate chips and shredded coconut. Store for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. Enjoy!