If you love the crunchy, toasty bits in granola but don’t want to turn on the oven—or you’re avoiding nuts—these Air Fryer Granola Clusters are the perfect solution. They’re golden, crisp, and come together in just a few minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
What makes these clusters special? They’re held together with egg whites, which give them a slightly chewy, extra crunchy texture once cooled. And since they’re nut-free, they’re ideal for kid-friendly breakfasts, packed lunches, or allergy-aware households.
Serve them with yogurt, pour them into a bowl with milk, or just snack on them by the handful—these little clusters are incredibly moreish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the oats, honey, melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir well to coat.
- Add the lightly beaten egg whites and stir again until everything sticks together.
- Line the air fryer basket with foil (to prevent the mixture from falling through).
- Spoon small clusters of the oat mixture onto the foil, keeping them roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Air fry for 5 minutes, stirring gently at the 2- and 4-minute marks to promote even browning.
- Remove and allow the clusters to cool completely. They’ll crisp up more as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle over Greek yogurt with a drizzle of extra honey.
- Add to smoothie bowls for texture.
- Serve with milk like traditional cereal.
- Pack into snack containers for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.
Storage
- Store in an airtight jar or container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Let cool completely before storing to maintain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip the egg whites?
The egg whites help hold the clusters together and add a crisp texture. If you’re avoiding eggs, try replacing them with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or a mashed banana—but note, the texture will be softer and more crumbly.
What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats work best. Quick oats will clump too tightly and may not hold their shape as well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Clusters need airflow to crisp properly.
Is this safe for school lunchboxes?
Yes! These granola clusters are nut-free, making them a great school-safe option.