Chai Spiced Granola Recipe

Warm, cozy, and filled with comforting spice, this chai spiced granola recipe will make your kitchen smell like a dream. Each golden cluster is infused with the rich aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and clove, creating a crunchy, lightly sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or snacking. Whether you’re sprinkling it over yogurt, pouring it into a bowl with your favorite milk, or just sneaking a handful straight from the jar, this granola brings a burst of flavor and crunch to every bite.

Behind the Recipe

This granola was born on a quiet Sunday morning when I craved something homemade, comforting, and warm-spiced to go with my cup of chai. I had a jar of oats, some nuts, and a vision of those cozy spices you find in a steaming mug of masala chai. The idea? Turn that experience into something you can crunch. What came out of the oven was exactly that. Toasty, crunchy, gently sweet, and deeply aromatic.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Chai, meaning “tea” in many parts of the world, refers to spiced milk tea in India. The signature blend of spices, known as “chai masala,” includes cardamom, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. These ingredients have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic healing for their warming and digestive properties. Marrying these bold flavors with granola, a Western pantry staple, creates a cross-cultural twist that feels both familiar and brand new.

Why You’ll Love Chai Spiced Granola

Let’s talk about why this granola might just become your new go-to snack or breakfast topper.

Versatile: Sprinkle it on smoothie bowls, yogurt, oatmeal, or enjoy it as a cereal or snack.

Budget-Friendly: Made from pantry staples and spices you probably already have.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in one bowl and bakes in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: You can switch up the nuts, sweeteners, or add dried fruits after baking.

Crowd-Pleasing: The warm chai aroma draws everyone to the kitchen.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores well in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.

Great for Leftovers: Perfect for transforming into bars or using as a topping.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want that ultra-clustery, crunchy granola with warm, toasty flavor in every bite? Here’s how.

• Use parchment paper for an easy cleanup and even baking.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan before baking for bigger clusters.
• Don’t stir too soon. Let it cool completely before breaking it up.
• Watch closely at the end, spices can burn quickly.
• Use high-quality spices for the boldest chai flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gadgets to pull this off. Just a few kitchen basics.

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients with ease.

Baking Sheet: A flat surface helps the granola bake evenly.

Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps with easy removal.

Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise spice and syrup ratios.

Spatula or Spoon: To mix and spread the granola before baking.

Ingredients in Chai Spiced Granola

This recipe brings warmth, crunch, and sweetness in perfect harmony.

1. Rolled Oats: 3 cups — The hearty base that toasts up golden and crisp.
2. Chopped Almonds: 1 cup — Adds crunch and nutty richness.
3. Pumpkin Seeds: ½ cup — A pop of green and a chewy texture.
4. Maple Syrup: ½ cup — The natural sweetener that caramelizes beautifully.
5. Coconut Oil: ⅓ cup, melted — Helps the granola crisp up and bind together.
6. Vanilla Extract: 1½ teaspoons — Adds depth and warmth.
7. Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons — The base spice for that chai flavor.
8. Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon — Brings zingy warmth.
9. Ground Cardamom: 1 teaspoon — Floral and fragrant, a key chai note.
10. Ground Cloves: ½ teaspoon — Intensely aromatic, a little goes a long way.
11. Ground Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon — Subtle, warm background note.
12. Salt: ½ teaspoon — Enhances every flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to swap a few things? No problem.

Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup.

Coconut Oil: Olive oil or melted butter.

Pumpkin Seeds: Sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts.

Chopped Almonds: Pecans, cashews, or hazelnuts.

Vanilla Extract: Almond extract for a twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cardamom: Known for its uniquely sweet, floral aroma and a hint of citrus, cardamom is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern desserts. It brings the magic to every chai blend.

Maple Syrup: More than just sweet, it adds rich, caramel-like notes that perfectly balance the warmth of the spices.

Instructions for Making Chai Spiced Granola

Making granola at home feels cozy and satisfying. Here’s how to make yours irresistibly good.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped almonds, and pumpkin seeds. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and all the spices and salt. Pour over the dry ingredients and stir until fully coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Spread the mixture evenly onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing it down firmly to encourage cluster formation.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Make sure the granola is spread in a compact, even layer so it bakes uniformly.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through. Do not stir while baking.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps it crisp up and form clusters.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once cooled, break into chunks and store in an airtight jar. Sprinkle over your favorite breakfast or enjoy by the handful.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This granola delivers a satisfying crunch from toasted oats and nuts, balanced with a chewy bite from pumpkin seeds. The flavor is a beautiful layering of warm spices — the cinnamon and cardamom lead, while ginger and cloves dance in the background, and the maple syrup ties everything together with a hint of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few friendly tips to make your granola even better:

• Let it cool completely before breaking to maintain clusters.
• Double the batch and store extra in a mason jar.
• Mix in dried fruit after baking for variety.
• Use a spatula to firmly press before baking for chunkier texture.

What to Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can slip up. Here’s what to watch for:

• Stirring during baking: This breaks the clusters before they form.
• Overbaking: Spices burn easily and can turn bitter.
• Using quick oats: They won’t hold the same texture or structure.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 220

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is ideal for prepping ahead. You can make a large batch and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Just let it come to room temp before serving.

How to Serve Chai Spiced Granola

This granola is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try it:

• Over vanilla Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey
• Mixed into a smoothie bowl
• With warm milk as a cozy cereal
• On top of roasted pears or baked apples for dessert

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got leftovers? Let’s get creative.

• Press into a bar mold with some nut butter for quick snack bars.
• Use as a crunchy topping for muffins or banana bread before baking.
• Layer it into a yogurt parfait with fresh fruit and jam.

Additional Tips

Want to level things up?

• Toast the nuts before adding for an even richer flavor.
• Use flaky sea salt on top for a fancy finish.
• Stir in a handful of dark chocolate chips after it cools for a treat.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation makes a difference, even with granola. Serve in a pretty jar with a ribbon for gifting. Or layer it in a clear glass jar for an eye-catching breakfast bar at brunch.

Variations to Try

Looking to change it up?

• Dried Fruit Boost: Add dried cranberries or apricots after baking.
• Chocolate Chai Crunch: Stir in mini dark chocolate chips.
• Nut-Free Version: Use seeds only and skip the nuts.
• Coconut Dream: Add shredded coconut before baking.
• Zesty Twist: Add orange zest to the wet mixture for citrusy flair.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this granola without coconut oil?

A1: Yes, you can substitute it with olive oil or melted butter for a slightly different flavor.

Q2: Is this granola gluten-free?

A2: Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Q3: Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?

A3: It’s best to stick with ground spices for even distribution and shelf stability.

Q4: How do I get big clusters in my granola?

A4: Press the mixture down firmly before baking and let it cool completely before breaking it up.

Q5: Can I reduce the sweetener?

A5: You can slightly reduce the maple syrup, but it also helps with clumping and crisping.

Q6: Should I stir the granola while it’s baking?

A6: No, letting it bake undisturbed is key for forming clusters.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?

A7: Absolutely. Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches.

Q8: What type of oats should I use?

A8: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for texture and crunch.

Q9: How long does it last?

A9: Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to two weeks.

Q10: Can I make this oil-free?

A10: It’s possible with applesauce or nut butter, but the texture will be softer.

Conclusion

This chai spiced granola wraps you in warmth and fills every bite with cozy flavors. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to, not just for the taste but for the comfort it brings. Trust me, once you’ve made your own spiced granola, store-bought just won’t cut it anymore. Happy baking!

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