Name: Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free); 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped (or pecans, almonds, etc.); 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp ginger; 1/2 tsp cloves; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 tsp allspice; 1/4 cup coconut oil (or other oil or butter); 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey); 2 tbsp molasses; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, warmly spiced snack that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe. It perfectly marries the nostalgic essence of gingerbread spices with the satisfying crunch of homemade granola, all while being kind to sensitive diets. Whether you’re topping your morning yogurt, munching by the handful, or adding a festive twist to your trail mix, this granola brings comfort and joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There are six white bowls and measuring spoons arranged on a dark brown wooden surface. One large bowl at the top is filled with light beige rolled oats with a rough texture. Below it, a medium bowl holds a heap of light to medium brown shelled walnuts with a jagged texture. To the right of the walnuts, a smaller bowl contains four segments of spices in shades of light beige, reddish-brown, dark brown, and light brown. On the far right, a small bowl is filled with dark brown liquid, while below that, a silver measuring spoon with black handle holds a black liquid. At the bottom left, a silver measuring spoon with a black handle holds solid white coconut oil. The overall setup shows raw ingredients neatly displayed on a rustic surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering straightforward, wholesome ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe. Each component plays a vital role to ensure this granola delivers on texture, taste, and that perfect golden color.

2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free): The hearty base that provides chewiness and fiber while ensuring the granola is gluten-free.
2 cups walnuts, finely chopped: Adds a rich, buttery crunch and healthy fats; you can swap in pecans or almonds if you prefer.
1 tsp cinnamon: Warming spice that’s essential for that classic gingerbread flavor.
1 tsp ginger: Bringing a zesty spice kick that defines gingerbread’s signature taste.
1/2 tsp cloves: Intense aromatic notes to deepen the spice profile.
1/2 tsp nutmeg: Adds warmth and earthiness without overpowering the other spices.
1/2 tsp allspice: A multi-dimensional spice enhancing the complexity of flavors.
1/4 cup coconut oil: Helps bind the ingredients and imparts a subtle tropical hint while keeping it dairy-free.
1/4 cup maple syrup: Natural sweetener that enriches flavor and helps everything stick together perfectly.
2 tbsp molasses: Gives that classic deep, slightly bitter sweetness, and rich color typical of gingerbread.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out all the spices with a sweet, mellow note that ties everything together.

How to Make Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a large baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray it to prevent any sticking. This preparation helps ensure easy clean-up and that your granola crisps up evenly without burning.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, finely chopped walnuts, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Stir gently until the spices are evenly distributed, which guarantees every bite of granola bursts with those beautiful gingerbread flavors.

Step 3: Heat Up the Wet Ingredients

Place the coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it until completely liquid. Add the maple syrup and molasses to the bowl, then microwave until the mixture becomes very hot and just begins to bubble gently. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a lovely sweetness and unify the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the warm wet ingredients over your dry oat and nut mixture. Stir thoroughly so every oat and nut piece gets coated, promising a glossy, flavorful granola that will crisp beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Spread the granola mixture evenly onto your prepared baking pan in a thin layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges are golden and wonderfully fragrant. Let the granola cool completely on the pan to develop that iconic crunch before breaking it into chunks.

How to Serve Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe

A close-up shot of a silver baking tray filled with even layers of golden brown granola spread out flat. The granola has a rough, crumbly texture with visible oats and small clusters, covering the entire tray surface. The tray lies on a white marbled textured surface, emphasizing the warm colors of the granola. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkling of fresh pomegranate seeds or a handful of dried cranberries on top enhances this granola’s subtle spice with bursts of vibrancy and tartness. You can also add a light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate for an indulgent twist.

Side Dishes

This gingerbread granola shines served alongside a bowl of plant-based yogurt—coconut or almond work beautifully—or layered into parfaits with maple-sweetened applesauce or stewed pears for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Layer your Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe in a clear glass jar with dairy-free whipped cream or your favorite nut butter for a stunning, layered dessert. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in decorative bags tied with twine and a handwritten note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crisp and delicious for up to two weeks, making it perfect for batch-prep mornings or grab-and-go snacks.

Freezing

If you want to keep this granola fresh longer, freezing is a great option. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive any lost crunch, spread the granola on a baking sheet and warm it in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—this little step makes your gingerbread granola taste freshly baked all over again!

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans and almonds make excellent substitutes, each adding their own unique flavor and texture. Feel free to mix different nuts for variety.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe is naturally dairy-free and can be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey as the sweetener.

How do I make sure the granola is gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and check all spice labels carefully to ensure no cross-contamination. This way, your granola stays safe and delicious.

Can I add dried fruit to the granola?

Definitely! Adding dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates after baking adds sweetness and chewiness that complement the spices beautifully.

What can I do if the granola sticks together too much?

If your granola forms large clumps, gently break it apart once cooled. To avoid excessive clumping, spread the mixture thinly and stir once or twice during baking for even crisping.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe enough for those cozy mornings or anytime you want a cheerful, spiced snack that’s mindful of dietary needs. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly versatile — your new go-to granola that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Gingerbread Granola (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need