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The 5 Best Substitutes for Granola

Part healthy breakfast, part tasty snack, granola is a versatile food that has been around for centuries.

It is a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed differently.

It is full of nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, and fruits, making it a great option for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

There are many different granola brands available on the market, so you can find an option that suits your taste.

Granola can be enjoyed on its own, or you can add it to yogurt or milk for a more filling meal.

It is also a great topping for pancakes or waffles.

And for many people, granola is a breakfast staple.

It’s filling, nutritious, and can be easily customized to fit your taste.

However, granola isn’t always the best choice for those looking to cut down on sugar or carbs.

Luckily, there are plenty of substitutes that offer the same flavor and texture without extra calories.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the best substitutes for granola.

What is Granola?

what is granola

Most people are familiar with granola as a healthy breakfast food or a tasty snack.

But what exactly is granola? Granola is a type of cereal made from oats, nuts, and dried fruit.

It can also include other ingredients like honey or chocolate chips.

Granola is usually baked in the oven, which gives it a crunchy texture.

While it is often eaten with milk, granola can also be enjoyed on its own as a crispy treat.

Though its exact origins are unknown, granola is thought to have first been created in the 1860s by Dr.

James Caleb Jackson, a health food advocate who developed a cereal made of baked oats and wheat.

The cereal was originally called “Granula,” but the name was later changed to “granola” after another company created a similar product with the same name.

Since then, granola has undergone many changes and can now be found in various flavors, textures, and sizes.

Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, there’s no doubt that granola is delicious and nutritious food.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Granola

For those times when you’re out of granola or simply looking for something new, there are plenty of substitutes that can be used in its place.

Here are five of the best substitutes for granola:

1. Coconut Flakes

coconut flakes

First introduced in the early 1800s, coconut flakes are made from dried, shredded coconut meat.

Although they’re often used as toppings or decorations on desserts and other sweet treats, they can also be added to savory dishes to boost flavor.

They can be used to add a tropical flavor to smoothies, baking recipes, and even curries.

Coconut flakes are also a good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.

While they are generally safe for most people to eat, there is one potential downside to consuming coconut flakes: they may contain high levels of saturated fat.

However, this is not necessarily a cause for concern, as the saturated fat in coconut flakes is mostly composed of healthy fatty acids like lauric acid.

In moderation, coconut flakes can be a delicious and nutritious way to add flavor and texture to your favorite recipes.

2. Chia and Hemp Seeds

chia and hemp seeds

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast that will give you the energy you need to power through your morning routine.

Chia and hemp seeds are a great alternative to granola, which can be high in sugar and calories.

These super seeds are packed with protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids, making them a perfect way to start your day.

Unlike granola, which is often made with unhealthy refined oils and sweeteners, chia and hemp seeds are naturally gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO.

Plus, they’re easy to add to your favorite breakfast foods.

Add them to oatmeal or yogurt for a nutrient-rich breakfast that will keep you feeling full until lunchtime.

With their nutty flavor and satisfying texture, chia and hemp seeds make a delicious and nutritious addition to any breakfast or snack.

3. Dried Fruits and Nuts

dried fruits and nuts

Dried fruits and nuts are a delicious and healthy alternative to granola.

They provide the same crunchy texture and sweetness but with none of the refined sugar or added fat.

Dried fruits and nuts are also a good fiber, vitamins, and minerals source.

Choose a mix containing various dried fruits and nuts to get the most nutrition.

I like to use dried apricots, dates, figs, and raisins in my granola.

I also add some almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.

You can use any dried fruit and nut that you like.

Just make sure that the dried fruit is unsweetened, and the nuts are unsalted.

4. Fresh Berries

fresh berries

Looking for a delicious and healthy way to start your day? Why not substitute fresh berries for granola in your morning yogurt or cereal? Berries are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, and they make a delicious and colorful addition to any breakfast.

Plus, they’re a great source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full until lunchtime.

If you’re worried about adding too much sugar to your diet, don’t be – berries are naturally sweet, so you won’t need to add any extra sweetener.

When berries are in season, they’re also very affordable, so there’s no excuse to start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast.

5. Oatmeal

oatmeal

Oatmeal is a fantastic alternative to granola.

It’s just as filling and nutritious, but it doesn’t contain all the sugar and fat that granola does.

Oatmeal is rich in fiber, which helps to keep you regular and can even help lower cholesterol levels.

It’s also a good protein source, which helps build and repair muscles.

And unlike granola, oatmeal is naturally gluten-free.

Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can top them with fruit, nuts, dried cranberries, or anything else you like.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making overnight oats.

They’re super easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

This is why oatmeal is a great choice for breakfast or any meal.

It’s healthy, filling, and can be easily customized to your liking.

So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast option, reach for the oats instead of the granola.

You’ll be glad you did.

Conclusion

There are a lot of granola substitutes out there, but these five are the best of the best.

Whether you’re looking for something with less sugar, more protein, or just a different flavor, one of these substitutes will be a perfect fit for you.

Coconut flakes make a great replacement for granola in both sweet and savory dishes, while dried nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

For a heartier option, try oatmeal – it’s packed with protein and makes a great base for sweet or savory toppings.

And finally, for a truly unique substitute, give berries a try.

It has a subtle sweetness and can be used in sweet and savory dishes.

Yield: 1 Serving

The 5 Best Substitutes for Granola

The 5 Best Substitutes for Granola
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • Coconut Flakes
  • Chia and Hemp Seeds
  • Dried Fruits and Nuts
  • Fresh Berries
  • Oatmeal

Instructions

  1. Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  2. Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
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