This cinnamon applesauce granola is the perfect topping to your yogurt bowl or smoothie, but it’s also delicious by the handful! The walnuts make this granola super satisfying and filling!

granola in a bowl next to a wooden spoon
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I’ve been all about the apples lately. I’ve also been on a bit of a granola kick. I’ve been enjoying it on top of my yogurt bowls as well as straight out of the bag.

Tips for Making the Perfect Granola

  • The lower oven temperature helps this granola bake evenly without burning.
  • Spread the granola into an even layer. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is a great way to be sure the granola doesn’t stick to the pan.
  • Be sure to keep a close eye on the granola and rotate the pan halfway through baking so it browns evenly.

How to Make Clumpy Granola

I decided to try making granola with applesauce in order to get those clumpy pieces without needing to use so much oil. But let’s just clarify, this recipe is not low-fat. Instead, it’s packed with healthy fats thanks to walnuts and a bit of coconut oil. This combination helps the clumps hold together. The other secret is in the method: press the granola down firmly before it bakes, leave it alone in the oven instead of stirring, and let it cool completely on the pan. That hands-off approach is what gives you those big, crunchy clusters.

granola in a yellow bowl

This granola smelled amazing coming out of the oven, thanks to all the cinnamon. I made this on Saturday night while Alex was watching football and I found myself going back for another handful. Watch out, this stuff is addicting! I ended up putting it on my yogurt bowl the next morning and packing some for the road when I went to our Northern Virginia office. It makes a perfect snack!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my granola not crunchy? Granola crisps as it cools, not while it’s in the oven, so the most common mistake is breaking it up or storing it before it’s completely cool. Let it sit undisturbed on the pan for at least 30 minutes. It’ll feel a little soft coming out of the oven and firm up as it cools. If it’s still chewy, it likely needs a few more minutes of baking next time.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? I really recommend sticking with old-fashioned rolled oats here. Quick oats are smaller and more processed, so they tend to bake up dusty and won’t give you those satisfying clumps. Rolled oats hold their shape and texture much better.

Can I make this without oil? If you’re looking for a recipe without any oil, try this oil free granola recipe!

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Cinnamon Applesauce Granola

Cinnamon Applesauce Granola

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 7 reviews
  • Author: Liz Thomson
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This cinnamon applesauce granola is the perfect topping to your yogurt bowl or smoothie, but it’s also delicious by the handful! The walnuts make this granola super satisfying and filling!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with coconut oil or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla.
  3. Stir in the cinnamon and salt until well combined.
  4. Add the oats and walnuts, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Spread the granola onto the prepared baking sheet and press it down firmly into an even layer with the back of a spatula. Pressing it down is what gives you those big, crunchy clumps.
  6. Bake on the middle rack for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the granola is golden and just beginning to brown at the edges. Don’t stir or flip it if you want clumps to hold together.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan without touching it, at least 30 minutes. It crisps up as it cools, so this step is what makes it crunchy.
  8. Once fully cool, break it into clusters and transfer to an airtight container to store.

Notes

Use apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice in place of the cinnamon for even more flavor.

The Best Ways to Enjoy Granola

  • I love adding granola on top of Greek yogurt and fresh berries. Here are a bunch of yogurt bowl ideas if you want to try something new!
  • Try it on top of a smoothie like this mango citrus smoothie bowl! I love the added crunch.
  • Of course, I also love this granola by the handful! It makes a great filling snack.

What are your favorite granola mix-ins?