Homemade Applesauce Granola Recipe for Crispy, Naturally Sweet Clusters

This applesauce granola is a revival of a recipe that gained popularity around 2011–2012. The original comes from celebrated cookbook author Nigella Lawson, who named it Andy’s Fairfield Granola after a version she enjoyed at The Pantry in Fairfield, CT. It’s a simple, well-spiced granola made with applesauce that produces a slightly crunchier, lower-oil cluster with a warm spice profile.

Applesauce Granola is Spicy!

Andy’s Fairfield Granola—also called Applesauce Granola—uses less oil than many granola recipes, which gives it a pleasant crispness. What sets it apart is the spice level. If you enjoy cinnamon and ginger, this granola has a comforting warmth that shines through. For those who prefer milder granolas, it’s still worth trying when you’re in the mood for a more aromatic, spiced breakfast or snack.

Other Granola Recipes

If you like experimenting with granolas, consider trying carrot cake granola or a chocolate-based granola for a different flavor profile—both are excellent alternatives depending on your taste.

  • Nigella’s Chocolate Muffins
  • Soda Bread Buns with Fennel Seeds and Cranberries
  • Peanut Butter Cookie Granola
  • Granola Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Chocolate Pecan Pie Granola

Recipe

Applesauce and Agave Granola

Applesauce & Agave Granola

Anna

A lower-oil granola made with applesauce and warming spices.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Servings 12

Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoons applesauce unsweetened
  • 6 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons agave syrup or corn syrup or rice syrup
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ginger
  • 2 ¼ cups old fashioned oats
  • 1 cup nuts almonds, pecans or any you prefer
  • cup sunflower seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon salt plus more to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick foil or parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, brown sugar, coconut oil, agave (or chosen syrup), honey, cinnamon and ginger until smooth.
  • Add the oats, nuts, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds to the wet mixture.
  • Sprinkle the salt over everything and toss until the oats and nuts are thoroughly coated.
  • Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet and bake for about 35–40 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes. Watch closely during the final 10 minutes, as it can brown quickly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely—the granola will crisp as it cools.

Notes

The salt amount here is reduced from some versions; add more if you prefer a saltier balance to the sweetness and spice.

Keyword granola
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