LU Granola L'Original contains palm oil and soy lecithin, both problematic ingredients. This DIY version replaces palm oil with organic grass-fed butter and coconut oil for better nutrition and sustainability, while using organic sunflower lecithin instead of soy lecithin for a cleaner emulsifier.
Based on: Granola L'Original
· Makes approximately 48 bars (600g total)
· Serving: 12.5g per bar (matches original)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Granola L'Original from LU often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
Ingredients
Organic wheat flour
216g (1¾ cups) · Bob's Red Mill Organic Unbleached White Flour
Primary structure and binding agent, provides the main texture foundation
Organic whole wheat flour
72g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) · Bob's Red Mill Organic Whole Wheat Flour
Adds fiber, nutty flavor, and nutritional density to complement the white flour
Organic milk chocolate chips
162g (1 cup) · Enjoy Life Dark Chocolate Mini Chips (or make from scratch)
Primary flavor component providing sweetness and rich chocolate taste
Leavening agent for light texture, replaces sodium carbonates
Organic vanilla extract
3g (½ tsp) · Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
Replaces artificial arôme, enhances chocolate and overall flavor profile
Redmond Real Salt
2g (⅓ tsp) · Redmond Real Salt Fine Sea Salt
Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness
Organic citric acid
1g (¼ tsp) · Milliard Citric Acid Food Grade
Natural acidity regulator that enhances flavor and acts as preservative
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 216g (1¾ cups) organic wheat flour, 72g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) whole wheat flour, 3g (½ tsp) baking soda, 2g (⅓ tsp) salt, and 1g (¼ tsp) citric acid until evenly combined — this dry mixture forms the structural base and the citric acid will help preserve the bars naturally.
Step 2. In a separate bowl, cream together 45g (3 tbsp) softened grass-fed butter with 48g (¼ cup) coconut sugar using a wooden spoon or electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. The creaming process is crucial for creating the right texture — the mixture should look pale and increase in volume. Add 15g (1 tbsp) melted coconut oil, 24g (2 tbsp) maple syrup, and 3g (½ tsp) vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Step 3. Sprinkle 2g (½ tsp) sunflower lecithin over the wet ingredients and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure it's completely incorporated without lumps — lecithin can clump if not mixed properly. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until a cohesive dough forms. Don't overmix as this will make the bars tough.
Step 4. Gently fold in 162g (1 cup) organic chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. Press the dough firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan using your hands or the back of a measuring cup — proper compression is essential for bars that hold together when cut. The surface should be level and compact.
Step 5. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden but the center still looks slightly soft — they'll continue cooking from residual heat. Don't overbake or they'll become dry and crumbly. Cool completely in the pan for at least 2 hours before cutting into 48 bars using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing.
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. The bars maintain best texture when stored in a cool, dry place.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.164
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.40
Savings59%
Higher upfront ingredient costs are offset by bulk purchasing advantages and elimination of processed additives. The organic, grass-fed ingredients provide superior nutrition and the recipe makes enough for 2-3 months of regular consumption.