Daniel Fast Granola: A Crunchy and Wholesome Recipe for Your Fast

Introduction

Granola is one of those versatile foods that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a snack, or something to sprinkle over your smoothie bowl, granola fits the bill. But when you're observing the Daniel Fast, it can be challenging to find a compliant granola recipe that is both wholesome and satisfying. That’s where this Daniel Fast granola recipe comes in!

During my first Daniel Fast, I was looking for snacks that not only followed the guidelines but also gave me the energy to keep going throughout the day. That’s when I started experimenting with homemade granola. This recipe has since become a staple in my fasting routine because it’s delicious, nutrient-dense, and keeps me full longer.

With no added sugars, this granola is naturally sweetened with fruit and is packed with oats, seeds, and nuts for a crunchy texture. Whether you enjoy it with almond milk, top it on your favorite fruit, or eat it as a snack straight out of the jar, this Daniel Fast granola is a fantastic addition to your fasting meal plan.

Recipe Overview

Daniel Fast Granola

This Daniel Fast granola is a crunchy and wholesome mix of oats, seeds, and nuts. Sweetened naturally with dried fruit, it's perfect for a fasting-friendly breakfast or snack. The combination of ingredients is not only filling but also provides plenty of fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein to keep you going through the day. Plus, you can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (such as raisins, dates, or cranberries)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your granola bakes evenly and doesn't stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The dry ingredients form the base of your granola, providing the bulk and crunch.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil and applesauce. These wet ingredients will help bind the granola together and give it a golden, crunchy texture when baked. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well to ensure that everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread and Bake

Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. You’ll know the granola is ready when it’s golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5: Add Dried Fruit

After the granola has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Once it's cool, stir in the chopped dried fruit. Adding the fruit after baking ensures it stays chewy and doesn't burn.

Step 6: Store and Enjoy

Once completely cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage. It will keep for up to two weeks at room temperature. Enjoy it as a breakfast cereal with almond milk, as a topping for smoothie bowls, or simply by the handful as a snack.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This Daniel Fast granola recipe makes about 4 cups, which is enough for several servings. If you’re serving it as breakfast, a typical serving size is about 1/2 cup. It’s delicious when paired with almond milk or sprinkled over a bowl of fresh fruit for a healthy, satisfying start to your day.

For a heartier meal, you can mix it with non-dairy yogurt or blend it into your favorite smoothie bowl. You can also use this granola as a crunchy topping for desserts like baked apples or roasted pears.

Nutritional Information

This granola is packed with nutrients, making it a great energy-boosting snack. Each serving contains a healthy dose of fiber, protein, and good fats from the nuts and seeds. It’s also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and vitamin E, thanks to the variety of ingredients. As a bonus, it’s naturally sweetened with dried fruit, so there’s no need for refined sugars.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

This granola stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container, and it will keep for up to two weeks at room temperature. If you’d like to store it for longer, you can freeze it in a resealable bag for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this granola oil-free?

Yes! If you prefer an oil-free version, you can substitute the coconut oil with additional applesauce. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats work best for granola because they hold their shape and provide a chewy texture. Quick oats tend to become mushy when baked, so I recommend sticking with rolled oats for this recipe.

Can I add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup?

If you're not strictly following the Daniel Fast guidelines, feel free to add a touch of natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for extra flavor. However, the dried fruit already provides a pleasant natural sweetness, so it’s not necessary.

Conclusion

This Daniel Fast granola is a fantastic recipe that you can enjoy even after your fast. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients that will keep you full and energized. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or sprinkling it over your favorite dishes, this granola is a wholesome and satisfying option for your Daniel Fast journey.

If you give this recipe a try, feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any substitutions you made. Don’t forget to follow the blog for more Daniel Fast recipes and tips!