Finally, a Granola That Doesn’t Lie.

I used to make my own granola because I wanted a grain-free option, and all the store-

bought ones tasted too sweet. Even the sugar-free ones—which are supposed to be low-carb and grain-free—were still overly sweet. And "sugar-free" these days means nothing, which is a huge pet peeve of mine. When I read ingredient labels, I find that sugar-free just means they haven’t used cane sugar—but they’ve swapped in maple syrup, coconut sugar, sugar alcohols (maltitol, erythritol, xylitol…), monk fruit, dates, agave… the list goes on. There are so many cane sugar alternatives now that it’s hard to keep up.

One of the things I always emphasize for myself and my clients is adapting to less sweetness over time. If a recipe calls for one cup of sugar, I’ll start by cutting it down to three-quarters of a cup, then half, and eventually even less. Then eventually I mix half cane sugar—because it adds texture and moisture to a recipe—and half a low glycemic sweetener alternative. Over time, your palate adjusts, and you start appreciating the natural flavors more.

Here’s a little trick I use for my clients: I often use a generous amount of vanilla in my desserts because vanilla has a way of evoking the memory of sweetness. Even when there’s less sugar, that hint of vanilla can make a recipe taste sweeter than it actually is. The same goes for cinnamon—its warm, slightly sweet flavor helps reduce the need for sugar, while salt acts as a flavor enhancer, bringing out the sweetness of ingredients like tiger nuts, vanilla, and cinnamon, making everything taste just a bit sweeter naturally.

So, when I found Struesli granola at Erewhon, I was excited and wanted to try it—but it was a bit expensive. It was $20 a bag, and I wasn’t sure it was worth it. But after trying it at a friend’s house, I was hooked. It was the first granola that didn’t taste like a sugar bomb and actually let the ingredients shine.

And that’s how it became my go-to. If you want to try it yourself, you can find it at Erewhon, or do what I do now and buy it in bulk directly from their website. That way, you always have a stash of granola that’s honest, delicious, and gut-friendly.

The Ingredients That Make Struesli Honest and Delicious

1. Organic Tiger NutsTiny tubers with a rich history and a naturally sweet, earthy flavor. They’re high in prebiotic fiber, which supports gut health by feeding your good bacteria.

2. Organic PecansButtery, soft, and full of healthy fats, pecans give the granola a rich, satisfying base. They’re a source of magnesium, antioxidants, and that familiar southern comfort flavor.

3. Organic WalnutsA brain-shaped nut loaded with plant-based omega-3s—and yes, the shape is a clue: foods that look like body parts often benefit that organ. Walnuts are good for your brain. The nut itself is sweet, while the skin adds a hint of pleasant bitterness that balances the richness of tiger nuts and coconut.

4. Organic Extra Virgin Coconut OilThe fat that holds it all together. Coconut oil adds a lush mouthfeel, helps bind the ingredients, and supports metabolism with its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). It also has a naturally sweet flavor, which makes it a great fat for baked goods when you want to add richness and subtle sweetness without sugar.

5. Organic CoconutToasty, crisp flakes of coconut add texture, natural sweetness, and even more healthy fats.

6. Organic Chia SeedsThese little seeds are fiber bombs and help you feel full longer. While their omega-3s absorb best when ground, they still contribute texture and nutrients in whole form.

7. Organic Hemp HeartsA complete plant protein with a delicate nutty flavor. Hemp hearts offer all 9 essential amino acids and a great balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats.

8. Organic Coconut ButterRicher and more decadent than coconut oil alone, coconut butter blends flesh and fat for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth richness that binds and elevates the flavor. It was a smart addition—it’s naturally even sweeter than coconut oil, which helps increase the overall sweetness of the granola without any added sugar.

9. Organic Golden Flaxseed MealGround flax is a hidden hero—full of lignans, fiber, and omega-3s. It helps bind everything together while also supporting hormone and gut health.

10. Sea SaltThat essential pinch of sea salt brings out the sweetness of the tiger nuts and coconut, balances the richness of the nuts, and gives the granola its deeply satisfying flavor profile.

The Verdict: Is It Healthy or Just Pretty?

More than a pretty label—it’s actually healthy.