This recipe is like a hybrid between banana bread and granola. And what a tasty hybrid it is! When I first saw this recipe I assumed the “banana” came from dried banana chips, but, in fact, mashed bananas actually get mixed into the granola before it bakes. This gives the granola a wonderful sweet and fragrant banana flavor that is similar to banana bread. This recipe is super simple – I’m talking two bowls, a little mixing and throw it in the oven simple. We like this granola served with milk or vanilla yogurt and garnished with sliced bananas. It would also taste great with dried fruit or chocolate chips mixed in once it comes out of the oven.
Banana Walnut Granola
makes about 6 cups
4 cups old fashioned rolled oats
1 cup raw walnuts, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup coconut flakes, sweetened or unsweetened (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 very ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup melted coconut oil, melted butter or extra virgin olive oil
Preheat oven to 350. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner and set aside.
In a large bowl combine oats, walnuts, coconut, cinnamon, brown sugar and salt. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, maple syrup and oil/butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix very well. Use your hands if you need to, to make sure all the oats are coated. Spread on prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Stir the mixture two or three times during baking to ensure even browning. Cool completely and transfer to an airtight container.
Recipe adapted from Shutterbean
Celebrating Sweets 