Spiced Pumpkin Seed Granola (Grain free)

Grain free, nut free, and refined sugar free, this Spiced Pumpkin Seed Granola is full of monounsaturated fats and fiber for a delicious breakfast addition or filling snack. Keep it on hand to top smoothie bowls, serve as cereal with fresh fruit, add to yogurt, and more! Gluten-free and Paleo options.

Last but certainly not least in our full week of nourishing snacks, this gluten free granola will quickly become your new go-to recipe when you’re in need of a nourishing snack for the whole family! It’s sweet, just a little spicy, and filled with all kinds of crunchy goodness. 

Gluten Free Granola Perfect for Snacking! 

Who doesn’t love a good homemade granola? Personally, I try to keep some on hand at all times to throw in yogurt bowls, add to my morning oatmeal, or simply grab a handful as I walk out the door. Sometimes, I even toss some in a baggie and keep it in my purse for easy on-the-go snacking. After all, whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or even a little bit spicy, there seems to be a granola recipe for you. 

However, store-bought versions aren’t always the most allergy-friendly or nutritious options, are they? Between the nuts, added sugars, and grains included in most varieties, it can be difficult to find one that meets your dietary needs, especially if you’re packing school lunches. Luckily, this gluten-free granola is made with all-natural ingredients and a variety of seeds to keep you full and satisfied. Not to mention, it comes with two hearty flavor options so you can switch it up spending on your goals!

Even better, given that it’s made without any nuts, it’s safe to take to the office, in the classroom, or wherever else your day might take you. So, ready to get baking? Let’s go! 

Nut Free Granola Ingredients

Am I the only one who spends way too much time browsing the grocery aisles looking at all the snacks? I swear they come out with more unique items every year, especially when it comes to all things pumpkin! However, what I don’t notice a lot of is nutrient-rich ingredients or whole foods listed on the nutrition labels, especially granola. So, I decided to change that by creating my own version of healthy homemade granola using the nourishing ingredients listed below! 

Pumpkin Seeds – Tiny but mighty, pumpkin seeds are a great source of iron, zinc, magnesium, and many other nutrients. They help reduce the risk of developing cancer, help regulate blood sugar levels, and improve heart health just to name a few benefits. 

Sunflower Seeds – Sunflower seeds are a great source of a wide variety of nutrients but are especially high in selenium and vitamin E and can help reduce inflammation, prevent heart disease, and the development of type 2 diabetes. 

Sesame Seeds – One serving of sesame seeds contains 12% of the RDI (recommended daily intake) of fiber, is a good source of plant-based protein, and may help lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

Flax Seeds – Flax seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. As a result, they can help regulate digestion, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. 

Unsweetened Coconut – High in medium-chain triglycerides, coconut is also a great source of manganese, copper, and selenium. As a result, it can help reduce cholesterol levels and aid in fat loss. 

How to Make Homemade Gluten Free Granola (and Video)

With just a few simple steps, this recipe will have your whole house smelling like a warm pumpkin pie thanks to the warm spices and roasted nuts! 

Combine. Add all of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl except the coconut flakes, and give them a stir to combine. 

Spread. Disperse the mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet. 

Bake. Place the baking sheet in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, and let the granola cook for 20 minutes. Then, add the coconut to the pan, and mix everything with a spoon before placing it back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes to allow the coconut to toast. 

Cool. Remove the pan, and let the granola cool completely before breaking it into pieces. 

DIY Pumpkin Spice Seasoning

Of course, you can always use a pre-made pumpkin spice seasoning. However, it’s super easy to make on your own. All you have to do is combine ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ginger, ⅛-1/4 teaspoon allspice or star anise, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Make sure to mix the spices evenly, and keep them in an airtight container. 

Or, if you prefer a chai-spiced granola, replace the pumpkin spice seasoning with ¼ teaspoon ginger, ¼ teaspoon cardamom, and ⅛ teaspoon clove. 

Serving Suggestions

In all honesty, there are no rules when it comes to eating granola. Spoon it, shake it, grab it by the handful, it all works! However, if you’re looking for specific ways to use this gluten-free granola, try adding it to oatmeal, using it for topping smoothies, mix it in granola, or serve it as a cereal with milk and fresh fruit if you like! 

How to Store Pumpkin Seed Granola

Once fully cooled, this recipe is best kept in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. For optimal freshness, I recommend storing it in the refrigerator. Or, make a big batch, and place it in the freezer for up to 8 months.

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As much as I enjoy eating pumpkin granola, this recipe is one of my favorites to make in big batches to give to friends and family! There’s just something so special about a homemade good to show you care. What’s your favorite food to give as a gift? Let me know in the comments below! 

Cheers, 

LC