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.
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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
Preheat + Prepare. Preheat your oven to 325℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to mix.
Add Wet Ingredients. Add nut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
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.
Cool Completely. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
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).
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.
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
Preheat + Prepare. Preheat your oven to 325℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to mix.
Add Wet Ingredients. Add nut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
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.
Cool Completely. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
Break + Finish. Once cooled, break into clusters and add any optional mix-ins.
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
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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