Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and crunchy texture.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the granola from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, pepitas, flaxseed meal, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a rubber spatula, mix until all the ingredients are well coated and combined. The mixture should be sticky but not overly wet.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Form Clusters on Baking Sheet. Scoop out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters. Press them down slightly to help them hold their shape during baking.
Step 8: Bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the clusters are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 9: Cool and Break Apart. Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola clusters cool completely on the sheet. Once cooled, break them apart into clusters.
Step 10: Store or Enjoy! Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie Granola Clusters immediately or store them for later.
