Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola – Crispy Clusters in 12 Minutes

Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola started as an experiment when I didn’t want to turn on the oven just for a small batch. My first attempt cooked too fast on top and stayed soft underneath because I spread it too thick. After testing this three ways, different temperatures, stirring intervals, and sweeteners, I discovered that 325°F and thin layers made all the difference. Then I cracked the code by pressing the oats down gently before cooking to create those bakery-style clusters. Now it’s golden, crisp, and perfect for layering into yogurt parfaits.

Why This Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola Works

Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola cooks faster than oven granola because the circulating heat crisps the oats evenly in a shorter time. Most top methods use 300–330°F and cook in 8–12 minutes, stirring halfway to prevent over-browning.

What makes this version reliable is the thin, even layer and gentle pressing technique that encourages cluster formation. Using honey or maple syrup binds the oats without making them sticky. The result is crisp, golden clusters that hold up beautifully in yogurt parfaits without turning soggy too quickly.

Overhead view of crispy air fryer breakfast parfait granola clusters

Timing for Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–17 minutes

Ingredients for Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola

Simple pantry ingredients create crisp clusters.

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ¼ cup chopped almonds or pecans
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Mix-Ins (add after cooking):

  • ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

How to Make Breakfast Parfait Granola in the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for 3 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, mix oats, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Stir in honey, melted oil, and vanilla until evenly coated.
  4. Line the air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper.
  5. Spread granola in a thin, even layer and gently press down with a spatula to help form clusters.
  6. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 5 minutes.
  7. Stir gently once, then cook another 3–7 minutes until golden brown and lightly crisp.
  8. Check doneness: granola should look golden and feel slightly crisp—it will continue to harden as it cools.
  9. Let cool completely before breaking into clusters. Add dried fruit or chocolate chips after cooling.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola

  • Keep layer thin: Thick layers cook unevenly.
  • Press lightly: Encourages bigger clusters.
  • Stir once only: Over-stirring prevents clumping.
  • Watch closely after 8 minutes: It can brown quickly.
  • Cool completely: Crisp texture develops during cooling.
  • Lower heat if needed: If edges brown too fast, reduce to 300°F (150°C).

Storing and Reheating Breakfast Parfait Granola

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing: Freeze in sealed bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes to refresh crispness if needed.

Variations:

  • Add shredded coconut for extra crunch.
  • Mix in pumpkin spice for a fall flavor.
  • Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans.
  • Stir in chia seeds for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Breakfast Parfait Granola is one of those small-batch recipes that feels surprisingly satisfying. It’s crisp, lightly sweet, and perfect for layering into yogurt or sprinkling over fruit. Once you see how easy it is, you may never bake granola in the oven again.

Author

  • Mother and son portrait in daisy field during golden hour

    Carly Morrison is a Brooklyn-based food blogger behind "Carly Recipes" and mom to two picky eaters who've learned to love vegetables thanks to her air fryer magic. A former elementary school teacher turned recipe developer, she creates family-friendly meals from her Park Slope apartment using real ingredients and honest cooking advice. When she's not testing recipes in one of her three air fryers, you'll find her walking through Prospect Park or trying to convince her husband Jake that yes, they really do need another kitchen gadget.

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