Homemade Granola

Homemade Granola is a crunchy, golden mix of oats, nuts, and natural sweeteners that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it with milk, sprinkled over yogurt, or by the handful, this recipe is a nutritious and delicious way to start your day or fuel your afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fully Customizable: Tailor it with your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or spices.
• Healthier Than Store-Bought: Made without preservatives or excess sugar.
• Budget-Friendly: More affordable than pre-packaged granola.
• Perfect Texture: Crispy and golden with clusters in every bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes a large batch that stores well for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats
• Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• Seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds)
• Honey or maple syrup
• Coconut oil or olive oil
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: shredded coconut, dried fruit, chocolate chips

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil together. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Evenly distribute the granola mixture on the prepared baking sheet, pressing down slightly for chunkier clusters.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting. For extra clusters, don’t stir at all.
7. Cool and Add Extras: Let granola cool completely before stirring in any dried fruit or chocolate chips.
8. Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 8 cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Tropical: Add coconut flakes, macadamia nuts, and dried pineapple.
• Spiced: Mix in nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the mix and stir in chocolate chips after baking.
• Protein-Packed: Include hemp seeds or a scoop of protein powder.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container or jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Let come to room temperature before using.
• Reheating: Not necessary; granola is best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats are best for texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch. The granola may be less chunky.

Is there a substitute for honey or maple syrup?

Yes, you can use agave nectar or brown rice syrup, though the flavor may differ slightly.

How do I make granola with big clusters?

Press the mixture firmly into the pan and avoid stirring during baking.

Can I add dried fruit before baking?

It’s best to add dried fruit after baking to prevent it from burning or becoming hard.

Is granola gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, the granola will be gluten-free.

How do I prevent my granola from burning?

Bake at a low temperature (around 325°F) and check regularly, especially towards the end.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter works and gives a rich flavor.

What kind of nuts work best?

Almonds, pecans, and walnuts are popular choices, but use what you like or have on hand.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Replace nuts with extra seeds or puffed rice for crunch.

What can I serve granola with?

Serve it over yogurt, with milk, as a smoothie bowl topping, or just eat it by the handful.

Conclusion

Homemade Granola is a wholesome, customizable, and flavorful addition to your pantry. With its satisfying crunch, sweet and salty balance, and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Make a batch and enjoy a better breakfast, snack, or dessert anytime.

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