The Blog
CONTACT
LUXURY RETREATS
SERVICES
About
Home

CURATING LIFE'S BEST MOMENTS THROUGH FOOD, WELLNESS 
AND CONNECTION

BREVARD, NORTH CAROLINA

Meal Prep & Pantry Staples

Crunchy Protein Granola

April 14, 2026

CLICK FOR MORE

THE NOURISHED SKINCARE
EDIT

CLICK FOR MORE

LUXURY WELLNESS RETREATS

READ MORE

nourishing, seasonal recipes

Popular
right now

WELLNESS

FITNESS

LIFESTYLE

RECIPES

Top Categories

CLICK FOR MORE

I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.

Here to make healthy living feel thoughtful and approachable - one recipe, ritual, or gathering at a time.

WELCOME!

This crunchy protein granola is the kind of staple you reach for without thinking. It’s simple, satisfying, and made with ingredients that actually support how you want to feel. In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to make it, customize it, and keep it on hand for easy, nourishing snacking throughout the week.

Over time, I found most store-bought versions either leaned too sweet, lacked texture, contained ingredients I don’t care to use, or didn’t offer much in terms of staying power. So I started making my own version at home. Something crunchy, balanced, and satisfying enough to actually hold you over.

This recipe has quickly become a staple. With the addition of Redmond Roots Protein, it brings a subtle boost of protein without compromising flavor or texture, making it ideal for everything from afternoon snacking to post-workout fuel.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS POST

  • Ingredients
  • Equipment
  • Step-By-Step Instructions
  • Tips for Perfect Clusters
  • Storage Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Hosting Tips
  • Other Recipes You’ll Love
  • Recipe Card

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups rolled oats (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup Redmond Roots Protein (vanilla recommended)
  • 1/3 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Redmond Real Fine Sea Salt
  • Optional : dark chocolate chunks, dried fruit, coconut flakes

Note : using a clean, high-quality protein powder makes a noticeable difference here. Redmond Roots Protein blends seamlessly into the mixture and keeps the flavor balanced without becoming overly sweet or chalky. The combination of fats (nut butter + oil) is what allows the granola to roast properly and develop that golden, crisp texture.

EQUIPMENT

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat + Prepare. Preheat your oven to 325℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to mix.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients. Add nut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Press + Bake. Spread the mixture onto your baking sheet and press it down firmly into an even layer. Bake for 18 – 22 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  6. Cool Completely. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
  7. Break + Finish. Once cooled, break into clusters and add any optional mix-ins.

TIPS FOR PERFECT CLUSTERS

  • Press the mixture down firmly before baking
  • Avoid stirring while baking
  • Let it cool completely before breaking apart
  • Don’t skip the fat. It’s essential for texture.

STORAGE TIPS

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 1 month.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply use a plant-based protein powder instead of whey.

Why isn’t my granola crunchy?

It likely needed more time to cool or wasn’t pressed firmly enough before baking.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the maple syrup, but keep in mind it helps bind the granola.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats are recommended for texture, but quick oats will work in a pinch (the result will be less chunky).

Crunchy homemade protein granola served in a glass bowl on a black background.

HOSTING TIPS

Keep a jar of this granola out in a simple glass container when hosting overnight guests. It’s an easy, thoughtful addition to a morning spread or a late night snack. It’s something guests can enjoy with yogurt, fruit, or coffee.

OTHER RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crunchy homemade protein granola served in a glass bowl with Redmond Roots vanilla protein powder in the background

Crunchy Protein Granola for Easy Snacking


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Caitlin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A crunchy, high-protein granola made with simple, clean ingredients and perfect for easy snacking, yogurt bowls, or post-workout fuel.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rolls oats (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup shaved almonds
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup Redmond Roots Protein (vanilla recommended)
  • 1/3 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Redmond Real Sea Salt
  • Optional : dark chocolate chunks, dried fruit, or coconut flakes


Instructions

  1. Preheat + Prepare. Preheat your oven to 325℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to mix.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients. Add nut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Press + Bake. Spread the mixture onto your baking sheet and press it down firmly into an even layer. Bake for 18 – 22 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  6. Cool Completely. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
  7. Break + Finish. Once cooled, break into clusters and add any optional mix-ins.

Notes

  • Pressing the granola firmly before baking is key for clusters.
  • Let cool completely before breaking apart.
  • Customize with your favorite mix-ins after baking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

+ Show / Hide Comments

Share to:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

don't miss

My Favorite Posts

Tried-and-true favorites that bring ease to your kitchen, beauty to your table, and intention to everyday living.

Show more

Decadent cinnamon spice apple crisp served on a glass plate with a golden fork on a holiday-themed tablecloth.
Cookies with chocolate chips in a grey measuring cup labeled "1 CUP" on white surface.
Vegan smoothie bowl topped with granola, banana slices, blueberries, and peanut butter on purple cloth.
DON'T MISS A BITE OF THE GOOD STUFF
☞  join the nourished note – a weekly digest of everything i'm creating, cooking, and curating. expect recipes, wellness rituals, and a peek behind the scenes – straight from my kitchen to your inbox. ☜
 
no spam, just nourishing things worth sharing.
Thank you for subscribing!