This homemade pistachio granola recipe is crunchy, lightly sweetened, and packed with flavor for the perfect snack or breakfast topping.
If you've ever been disappointed by store-bought granola that's either too sweet, too bland, or just lacking the flavors you love, then this granola with pistachios recipe is about to change your breakfast game.
After years of testing small batches and tweaking ingredients, I've perfected a method. This recipe has the perfect texture, just the right amount of sweetness, and a nutty flavor that's completely irresistible.
Trust me-once you try it, you'll never go back to store-bought granola!
Another favorite nutty snack our family loves are these Everything Bagel Cashews.
Why You'll Love Pistachio Granola
- This recipe delivers the perfect amount of sweetness and a nutty flavor that's simply irresistible.
- This granola can be customized with your favorite ingredients to meet all the flavor profiles you love!
- Best of all, it's packed with nutritious ingredients for next level snacking, topping, or grabbing a quick bite on the go!
Recipe Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this next-level pistachio granola. If you want to change the ingredients, don't forget to check out the substitution list below!
Old Fashioned Rolled Oats is the base of the granola, providing structure and a hearty, chewy texture that crisps up beautifully when baked.
Pistachios add a nutty flavor and crunch making the granola extra satisfying.
Ground Cinnamon enhances warmth and depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the honey and dried fruit.
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Coconut Oil helps coat the ingredients, ensuring an even crispness.
Honey acts as a natural sweetener and binding agent, helping the granola form delicious clusters.
Raisins (optional) provide chewy sweetness and a contrast to the crunch, perfect for those who enjoy a touch of extra fruitiness.
Dried Cherries (optional) add a tart-sweet burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with pistachios and cinnamon.
Substitutions
- Quick Oats can be used as a replacement for rolled oats. Reduce the amount of quick oats by ¼ cup.
- Avocado Oil or Extra Virgin Olive Oil can replace the coconut oil, but it will slightly change the flavor.
- Pure Maple Syrup is a great replacement for honey.
- Most Dried Fruits would be a great substitute for raisins or dried cherries.
How to Make Pistachio Granola
Here are some quick visual instructions. The full recipe with ingredient measurements is below!
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a sheet pan or lined baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, and salt.
Whisk together the melted coconut oil and honey until smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well to coat evenly.
Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared parchment paper and bake stirring halfway through.
Allow the granola to cool at room temperature on the lined baking sheet. As it cools, it will develop that signature crunchy texture.
Once cool, break up the granola into pieces and add the pistachios an raisins. Or add dried cherries for a delicious cherry pistachio granola.
Tips for Making Granola with Pistachios
- For that satisfying crunch, make sure your granola is spread in a single layer and pressed down halfway through baking. The best way to get clusters is to press the mixture firmly both before baking and after stirring halfway through.
- The first time I made this, I added the pistachios in with the oats, and they burned while baking. Now, I add them after the granola has cooled.
- If using raw pistachios, mix them in with the oats, honey, and coconut oil and bake them with the granola.
How to Store Granola
- To keep your granola fresh, store it in an airtight container once it has cooled. At room temperature, your granola will stay delicious for up to 2 weeks.
Flavor Variations for Pistachio Granola
This granola is highly customizable! Here are a few ideas to make this the best granola for you!
- Cranberry Pistachio Granola: Add dried cranberries instead of raisins.
- Lemon Pistachio Granola: Leave out the cinnamon and stir in a hint of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Apricot Pistachio Granola: Replace the raisins with dried apricots. I like to slice them into smaller pieces.
- Coconut Lover's Delight: Use coconut oil, coconut flakes or coconut chips, and sweeten with coconut palm sugar for extra tropical flair.
- Chocolate Nutty Granola: Add chocolate chips once the granola cools, along with your favorite nuts for a sweet tooth-satisfying snack.
- Seed-a-licious: Add pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds for added crunch.
- Extra Fiber: Add chia seeds or ground flax seed to the granola.
Different Ways to Use Granola
Wondering how to enjoy your homemade pistachio granola? Here are some delicious ideas.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer with yogurt, fresh fruit, and honey for a balanced breakfast.
- Smoothie Bowls: Sprinkle on smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor.
- Ice Cream: Use it as a topping on vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delightful crunch.
- Afternoon Snack: Enjoy it on its own as a tasty snack or mix it into trail mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
To get homemade granola to break into clumps, press the mixture firmly into a single layer on a lined baking sheet before baking. After stirring the granola, again, use a spatula to press the mixture into a single layer. After baking, let it cool completely at room temperature before breaking it apart. This ensures it sets into crunchy clusters!
📖 Recipe
The Best Pistachio Granola Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil (or avocado/olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- ¾ cup roasted pistachios (see note or raw pistachios)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup dried cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut oil and honey. Pour this mixture over the oat mixture, tossing thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and press down firmly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes total, stirring once at the 12-minute mark and pressing down again before continuing to bake until the granola is golden brown.
- Let the granola cool on the baking sheet.
- Once cooled, stir in the pistachios, dried cherries, or raisins.
Notes
- Tip: Pressing down on the granola on the pan will help you form granola clusters instead of loose granola.
- Tip: If using raw pistachios, mix them in with the oats, honey, and coconut oil and bake them with the granola.
If you're looking for a delicious, nutty, and slightly sweet addition to your breakfast or snacks, this pistachio granola recipe is about to become your new favorite. It's filled with a crunchy texture, unsalted pistachios, and a satisfying mix of seeds, oats, and a touch of sweetener.
Whether you're craving a yogurt parfait, smoothie bowl, or just want a tasty topping for ice cream, this easy homemade granola recipe has it all.
Paula says
This granola is so good. I will definitely make it again.