Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the over-ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Add sugar, canola/light olive oil, cashew butter, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the rolled oats and wheat germ/bran.
- Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry oat mixture. Use a sturdy spatula to mix until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts into the granola mixture, ensuring they are well distributed.
- Divide the granola mixture evenly between the prepared baking sheets, spreading it into a thin, uniform layer with the spatula.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring gently every 10-15 minutes to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- The granola is done when it's golden brown and feels mostly dry. Remove from the oven and immediately scatter the banana chips over the hot granola.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheets without stirring. It will crisp up significantly as it cools. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.
Notes
Ensure bananas are very over-ripe; their natural sweetness and moisture are crucial for flavor and binding. Spread the granola mixture thinly and evenly on the baking sheets to promote uniform crispness. Stirring during baking is essential for even browning and to prevent burning. The granola will feel slightly soft when hot, but will crisp up considerably as it cools. Do not overbake; look for a deep golden color. For enhanced flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the mixture. Store the completely cooled granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunch.