Maple Cinnamon Buckwheat Granola

When I was traveling in Peru the last month all the hotel breakfasts had homemade granola which I ate almost daily. It made my gut feel so good and was loaded with fiber. I immediately made a fresh batch when we got home.

This is perfectly sweet and has a great crunchy and chunky texture. I was eating it by the handfuls! Make a batch and pair with greek yogurt or milk for a healthy breakfast all week.

Ingredients in Maple Cinnamon Buckwheat Granola

• Rolled Oats

• Buckwheat Groats

• Maple Syrup

• Olive Oil

• Vanilla Extract

• Nuts

• Pumpkin Seeds

• Dried Fruit

What is Buckwheat?

Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is entirely gluten-free. It’s a pseudocereal, meaning it’s a seed that is used like a grain. Buckwheat has been cultivated for centuries and is known for its high nutritional value. When used in granola, it provides a delightful crunch and a host of health benefits.

Buckwheat granola combines the nutty flavor of buckwheat groats with other wholesome ingredients like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners. It can be enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or as a snack on its own.

Health Benefits of Buckwheat

1. Rich in Nutrients: Buckwheat is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, manganese, and zinc. It’s also a good source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and overall health.

2. High in Fiber: The fiber content in buckwheat granola helps promote healthy digestion and can aid in weight management by keeping you full longer. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels.

3. Gluten-Free: For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, buckwheat granola is a fantastic alternative to traditional oat-based granolas.

4. Antioxidant-Rich: Buckwheat contains powerful antioxidants, including rutin and quercetin, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Serving Suggestions for Buckwheat Granola

Buckwheat granola is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways:

• With Milk or Yogurt: The classic way to enjoy granola is with your favorite milk or a dollop of yogurt. Add some fresh fruit for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Smoothie Bowl Topper: Sprinkle granola on top of your smoothie bowls for a satisfying crunch.

• As a Snack: Pack some granola in a small container for a healthy on-the-go snack.

  Other recipes you might enjoy:

• Chocolate Covered Strawberry Overnight Oats

• Lemon Coconut Burcher Muesli

• Protein Chia Pudding

Maple Cinnamon Buckwheat Granola

Wet

• 1/2 cup maple syrup

• 2 tbsps avocado or olive oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (can add more cinnamon if you do not have nutmeg)

• 1/4 tsp salt

Dry

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup buckwheat groats

• 1/2 cup dried fruit of choice (I used dates and apricots, chopped into small pieces)

• 1/2 cup nuts of choice, chopped 

• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

• 2 tbsps chia seeds or hemp hearts

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees and line a tray with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl add in all wet ingredients and stir until combined.

3. In the same bowl add in all dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

4. Pour onto tray and press mixture together. This is what gets the granola nice and chunky.

5. Bake for 15 minutes, stir mixture and press back together (this is what gets big chunky peices of granola). Bake for another 10 minutes.

6. Allow to cool for at least 45 minutes.

7. Break apart and store in a glass container.

8. Enjoy with some yogurt and berries or top smoothies with it!

Make sure to tag me @miaharrisnutrition if you make this!