Sourdough Granola

Sourdough granola is a delightful twist on a classic, combining the tangy depth of sourdough discard with wholesome rolled oats, warm cinnamon, and a perfect balance of nuts and seeds. This granola features a crispy, golden texture, with clusters formed from the sourdough starter's natural binding properties. The cinnamon adds a comforting spice, while the nuts and seeds provide a satisfying crunch and a boost of protein and nutrients. Whether enjoyed as a topping for yogurt, a mix-in for plant-based milk, or a crunchy snack on its own, sourdough granola offers a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and subtle tang, making it a unique and irresistible treat.

Ingredients

1/3 cup (76 grams) sourdough starter, ripe (fed), or discard

4-6 tablespoons pure maple syrup, depending on how sweet you like it

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats

3/4 cup puffed rice

1/2 cup pecan pieces

1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds

1/4 cup raw pepita seeds

1/3 cup shredded coconut

1/2 cup dried fruit, such as golden raisins, blueberries, cherries, cranberries (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.

2. In a small bowl, stir together the sourdough starter, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

3. In a large separate bowl, combine the oats, puffed rice, nuts and seeds, and coconut.

4. Pour the sourdough mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until evenly moistened.

5. Spread the granola onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down to form clusters.

6. Bake the granola for 30 minutes and a little golden, it will be somewhat soft, don’t worry, it will crisp up as it cools.

7. Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely before breaking it into pieces and adding the optional dried fruit.

8. Serve as a topping on warm oatmeal, over fresh fruit, as a topping on Dairy-Free Ice Cream, or on its own as a snack.

9. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.