Giving the gift of homemade food is one of the nicest ways to spread joy during the holidays. But especially in this season of over-indulgence, giving sugary or calorie-laden treats to someone who is trying to eat healthy and maintain their weight can end up being both an appreciated blessing, as well as a guilt-inducing curse.
This gluten-free gingerbread granola recipe offers seasonal flavor in an healthy way. It’s perfect sprinkled over Greek yogurt for a protein-rich breakfast.
GLUTEN-FREE GINGERBREAD GRANOLA
Yield: 14 servings (1/4 cup each)
Ingredients for your Kroger shopping list:
3 1/4 cups gluten-free rolled oats
1/4 teaspoon Kroger ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Kroger ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon Kroger allspice
1/8 teaspoon Kroger nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon Kroger ground cloves
1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup canola oil
2 Tablespoons molasses
½ Tablespoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg and cloves. Set aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, canola oil and molasses. Microwave the brown sugar, canola oil and molasses combination on high until bubbly (about 45 seconds). Add vanilla to liquid mixture and stir. Pour liquid over oat mixture and stir to combine. Spread oats in a thin layer on baking sheet(s). Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, stir, spread again in thin layer and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight storage container.
NUTRITION INFORMATION PER SERVING: 130 Calories; 5 grams Fat; 0.5 grams Saturated Fat; 0 mg Cholesterol; 0 mg Sodium; 18 grams Carbohydrates; 6 grams Sugar; 2 grams Fiber; 2 grams Protein
Cook’s note: We used gluten-free oats to ensure that this recipe was friendly to those with gluten allergies or intolerance. Oats do not have gluten in them but they are often processed in facilities and on equipment that also processes wheat, rye, barley and other grains containing gluten. So, if you (or the recipients of your granola) are steering clear of gluten, it’s best to look for oats that are specifically labeled as gluten-free to ensure that trace amounts haven’t contaminated the product. If gluten is not an issue, plain rolled oats will work fine in this recipe.
This combination of spices can also be used to add gingerbread flavor to coffee grounds and baked goods.
What are the health benefits of these ingredients?
- Oats: Contain protein, fiber, magnesium and iron.
- Canola oil: High in monounsaturated fats.
- Molasses: Good source of magnesium and potassium.
Henry Ford LiveWell and Kroger have teamed up to assist you in your wellness journey! Learn how to shop and cook healthy by signing up for a grocery tour store hosted by a Henry Ford registered dietitian nutritionist. Or visit us for one of our free Kroger mini-tours or cooking demos hosted each week across southeast Michigan.
Looking for more info and want to make an appointment with a registered dietitian? Call 1-855-434-5483 or email ContactUs@henryfordlivewell.com.
