Granola

Granola

There’s something truly comforting about homemade Granola. Picture a cozy morning, the sun gently streaming through the kitchen window, and the smell of toasted oats and nuts filling the air. I remember the first time I made my own Granola; I was inspired by a friend who swore by her recipe. As I combined the ingredients, I felt a sense of anticipation. Would it turn out as good as hers? The answer was a resounding yes, and since then, I’ve been hooked! Homemade Granola is not just about the taste; it’s about creating something nourishing with your own hands. You can customize it to suit your tastes, whether you prefer it sweet, crunchy, or loaded with your favorite nuts and seeds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
200 kcal
Protein:
4 g
Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Fat:
8 g
Tools Used:
Glass Mixing Bowl Set (3 piece), Large Baking Sheet, Keep Calm And Bake On Spatula

Why This Granola Stands Out

It’s Healthier Than Store-Bought

One of the main reasons I love making my own Granola is the control I have over the ingredients. Many store-bought versions are loaded with sugar and preservatives. When I make it at home, I can choose natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey and ensure I’m using wholesome ingredients. It makes me feel good knowing what I’m putting into my body.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason I adore this Granola is its versatility and convenience. I can whip up a big batch and store it for the week. It’s perfect for busy mornings when I need something quick to grab. Just a handful of homemade Granola paired with yogurt or milk makes for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Customizable to Your Taste

Every batch can be unique! I love experimenting with different nuts, seeds, and even spices. Sometimes I’ll throw in some cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for sweetness. The possibilities are endless, making it so much fun to create!

Great for Gifting

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, homemade Granola is perfect. I’ve packaged it in mason jars and tied a pretty ribbon around them for friends and family. It’s a personal touch that shows you care, and everyone loves a delicious, healthy snack!

Budget-Friendly

Making your own Granola is a smart way to save money. Buying ingredients in bulk can significantly reduce the cost compared to store-bought versions. Plus, knowing that I’m making a healthy choice for my family without breaking the bank makes it all the more rewarding.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Granola

Granola

Creating a batch of delicious Granola is all about the quality of your ingredients. The combination of almonds, pecans, and shredded coconut provides a satisfying crunch, while rolled oats form the base of this nutritious snack. With just a handful of components, you can craft a delightful mix that’s not only tasty but also good for you.

  • 1 cup almonds (sliced) – These add a lovely crunch and are packed with healthy fats and protein.
  • ⅔ cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened) – Coconut gives a tropical flavor and chewy texture.
  • ⅔ cup pecans (chopped) – Rich in flavor, they complement the oats perfectly.
  • 4 cups rolled oats – The base of the Granola, providing fiber and heartiness.
  • 1¼ teaspoons salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • ½ cup maple syrup – A natural sweetener that binds everything together.
  • ⅓ cup olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that crunchy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla – For a lovely aromatic flavor that ties it all together.

The Process for Making Granola

Granola

Let’s dive into the fun part—making your own Granola! It’s incredibly straightforward and a great way to engage with your food. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be rewarded with a warm, fragrant batch of goodness.

  1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and helps the Granola achieve that perfect crunch.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almonds, shredded coconut, pecans, rolled oats, and salt. Stir them together until evenly mixed. This blend of ingredients will create a delightful texture once baked.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Now, pour in the maple syrup, olive oil, and vanilla into the dry mix. Stir gently until everything is well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky, which is what you want for clumping together.
  4. Prepare and bake: Spread the mixture evenly on a large baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes to ensure it bakes evenly. Keep an eye on it; you want a golden brown color without burning. The aroma while baking is simply divine!

Serve This Granola With

Now that you have this delicious Granola, let’s talk about how to enjoy it! Here’s how to serve it up right:

  • With yogurt: Layer your homemade Granola with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a delightful breakfast.
  • As a snack: Enjoy a handful as a quick pick-me-up during the day. It’s a healthy option that will keep your energy up!
  • On oatmeal: Sprinkle it over a warm bowl of oatmeal for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
  • In smoothies: Use it as a topping for smoothies or smoothie bowls to add a satisfying texture.
  • For baking: Toss a handful into muffin or pancake batter for added texture and flavor.
  • As a topping: Use it to top off desserts like ice cream or fruit salads for a sweet treat.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Watch the oven: Granola can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
  • Cooling is key: Always let your Granola cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve maximum crunch.
  • Storage matters: Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crispy.
  • Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or nuts to personalize your Granola.

Making Adjustments

Granola

Making your own Granola is not just about following a recipe; it’s about adapting it to your personal taste and dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to ensure freshness. This way, your Granola stays crisp and delicious!
  • Freezing: You can freeze your Granola for longer shelf life. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in a resealable bag.
  • Pairing: This Granola pairs wonderfully with coconut yogurt or almond milk for a vegan option.
  • Sweetness level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your preference for sweetness.
  • Nut alternatives: Feel free to substitute any nut or seed according to what you have on hand.
  • Flavor boosters: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile wonderfully!

Serve This Granola With

Here are some ideas on how to enjoy your homemade Granola:

  • With yogurt: Layer it with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a delightful breakfast.
  • As a snack: It’s perfect for mid-day munching, providing a healthy energy boost.
  • On oatmeal: Sprinkle it over oatmeal for added texture and flavor.
  • With smoothies: A delicious topping for smoothie bowls, giving them that extra crunch.
  • In baked goods: Toss it into muffins or pancakes for a hearty addition.
  • On desserts: Use it as a topping for ice cream or fruit salads for a sweet treat.

FAQ

To achieve that perfect crunch in your Granola, it’s essential to bake it long enough without burning it. Stirring the mixture every 10 to 15 minutes while baking allows for even browning. Also, make sure to let your Granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling process helps it to clump together and become crunchy. Adjusting the amount of maple syrup can also impact the crunchiness; a little more can help bind the ingredients.

Absolutely! Adding dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dates can enhance the flavor and add a chewy texture to your Granola. Just make sure to add them after the baking process, as they can burn if added too soon. You can mix them in once the Granola has cooled down, allowing you to customize it to your taste!

Homemade Granola can last for up to 6 months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It’s important to allow it to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to sogginess. If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating it for extended freshness, but be aware that this might change its texture.

Yes, you can easily make Granola gluten-free by choosing certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensuring that other ingredients are also gluten-free. Many nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to create a delicious and safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

This homemade Granola recipe is truly special because it combines health and flavor in one delightful mix. You get to tailor it completely to your preferences while enjoying the satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch. I encourage you to give it a try—once you experience the joy of homemade Granola, you may never go back to store-bought!

Granola

Granola

The ultimate homemade Granola: crunchy, sweet, and totally customizable! Packed with wholesome ingredients, this easy recipe is perfect for breakfast or a snack. Make it today for an irresistible treat!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 28 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Glass Mixing Bowl Set (3 piece)
  • Large Baking Sheet
  • Keep Calm And Bake On Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup almonds sliced
  • cup shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened
  • cup pecans chopped
  • 4 cups rolled oats
  • teaspoons salt
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  • Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the almonds, shredded coconut, pecans, rolled oats, and salt.
  • Add wet ingredients: Stir in the maple syrup, olive oil, and vanilla until well combined.
  • Prepare and bake: Evenly spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes.

Notes

  • Serving size: is ¼ cup.
  • Versatile: You can add or substitute many nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
  • Cool before storing: Always let granola cool completely before storing.
  • Add to recipes: Mix a handful into muffin or pancake batter for extra texture.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
  • Freezing: Can be frozen wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or a resealable bag.
Keyword easy granola, granola with nuts, healthy breakfast granola, homemade granola recipe

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