Copycat Costco Fruit and Nut Granola Clusters

Costco’s Fruit and Nut Granola Clusters are a beloved snack known for their perfect balance of crunchy oats, chewy dried fruits, and satisfying nuts. They are versatile, portable, and delicious, making them an ideal option for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or midday energy boost. While the store-bought version is convenient, making these granola clusters at home allows you to control the ingredients, customize the flavors, and save money.

This copycat recipe recreates the irresistible combination of toasted oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit bound together with a touch of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. The result is a snack that’s crunchy, chewy, and nutrient-packed. You’ll also love the flexibility of this recipe—it’s easily adaptable to your favorite nuts, fruits, and flavors, ensuring every batch is tailored to your taste.

Follow this detailed guide to make your own homemade Costco-inspired Fruit and Nut Granola Clusters. Along the way, you’ll discover tips for success, creative variations, and storage options to keep your clusters fresh and ready to enjoy anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cost-Effective: Making granola clusters at home saves money compared to buying store-bought versions.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, these clusters are a nutritious snack.
• Simple and Quick: The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, including baking time.
• Perfect Texture: A combination of crunchy and chewy elements makes these clusters irresistible.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 6 cups of granola clusters
• Serving Size: 1/4 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans, or cashews)
• 1/2 cup seeds (e.g., sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chia seeds)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Binding Mixture

• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates), chopped if large
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, add after baking)

Optional Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate
• Sprinkle of flaky sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil. Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove from heat once the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Coat the Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated with the binding mixture.

Step 5: Spread and Compress

1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing it firmly into a single, compact layer using the back of a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. Compressing the mixture helps form clusters.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the mixture is fragrant. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even toasting.

Step 7: Cool Completely

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan. As it cools, it will harden and become crisp.

Step 8: Add Dried Fruits and Optional Ingredients

1. Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Stir in the dried fruit and any additional add-ins like chocolate chips.

Step 9: Store or Serve

1. Store the granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Serve as a snack, sprinkle over yogurt, or enjoy with milk as a cereal.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Granola Bars: Press the mixture into a square baking pan, bake, and cut into bars after cooling.
2. Trail Mix: Combine granola clusters with pretzels, more dried fruit, and additional nuts for a portable snack.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer granola clusters with Greek yogurt and fresh berries in a glass for an elegant presentation.
4. Gift Jars: Package the clusters in mason jars with a ribbon and tag for a thoughtful homemade gift.
5. Granola Crumble: Use the clusters as a topping for baked fruit, such as apples or pears, for a healthier dessert.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Compact the Mixture: Press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking sheet to help it form cohesive clusters.
2. Monitor Baking Time: Granola can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking.
3. Use Parchment Paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
4. Cool Completely: Don’t break apart the granola until it’s fully cooled to maintain large clusters.
5. Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly for a less sweet version.

Recipe Variations

1. Nut-Free Granola: Replace nuts with extra seeds, puffed quinoa, or additional dried fruit for an allergen-friendly option.
2. Tropical Granola Clusters: Add dried pineapple, shredded coconut, and macadamia nuts for a tropical twist.
3. Spiced Granola Clusters: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg and a pinch of cloves for a spiced flavor.
4. Chocolate Lover’s Granola: Stir in cocoa powder to the wet ingredients and add chocolate chips after cooling.
5. Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients or mix in roasted chickpeas.

Freezing and Storage

1. Room Temperature: Store the granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
2. Refrigeration: For slightly longer shelf life, store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
3. Freezing: Freeze granola clusters in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Reduce Sugar: Use less honey or maple syrup, relying on dried fruits for natural sweetness.
2. Use Whole Grains: Incorporate quinoa flakes or millet alongside the oats for added nutrition.
3. Add Superfoods: Stir in chia seeds, hemp hearts, or goji berries for a nutrient boost.
4. Healthy Fats: Replace coconut oil with avocado oil or leave out the oil entirely for a lighter version.
5. More Fiber: Include flaxseed meal or oat bran for added fiber content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Breakfast Spread: Add granola clusters to a breakfast table alongside yogurt, fruit, and pastries.
2. Snack Bowls: Serve clusters in small bowls with a mix of dried fruits and nuts for gatherings or meetings.
3. Dessert Topping: Use clusters as a crunchy topping for ice cream or pudding at dinner parties.
4. Outdoor Adventures: Pack granola clusters in resealable bags for hiking trips or road trips.
5. Holiday Gifts: Package in festive bags with a note for a thoughtful and homemade holiday present.

Special Equipment

1. Large Mixing Bowl: Makes combining the ingredients easier.
2. Silicone Spatula: Ideal for spreading and compacting the granola mixture on the baking sheet.
3. Parchment Paper or Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistency.
5. Cooling Rack: Allows the granola to cool and harden evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I make the clusters stick together?
   Press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet and use a sufficient amount of honey or maple syrup as a binder.
2. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
   Rolled oats are best for texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. Avoid instant oats, as they may make the granola too crumbly.
3. What’s the best way to break the granola into clusters?
   Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it apart with your hands.
4. Can I reduce the oil in this recipe?
   Yes! Replace some or all of the oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a lighter version.
5. Why is my granola not crunchy?
   Ensure the mixture is baked long enough and cooled completely; the granola crisps as it cools.
6. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
   Fresh fruit contains too much moisture and isn’t suitable for this recipe. Stick to dried fruit for the best results.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
8. How do I make this recipe vegan?
   Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey to make the granola clusters vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Copycat Costco Fruit and Nut Granola Clusters are a delicious and healthy snack you’ll want to make again and again. With their perfect mix of crunch, chewiness, and natural sweetness, these clusters are as versatile as they are satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying them as a grab-and-go snack, a breakfast topping, or a thoughtful gift, this recipe allows you to recreate the store-bought favorite with a personal touch.

The best part? You can customize the ingredients to suit your tastes, making every batch uniquely yours. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, these granola clusters are a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade treat packed with flavor and nutrition.

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