Name: Easy Homemade Granola
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 cups old-fashioned oats ((not quick oats)); 1 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup sliced almonds ((or any other nut)); 3 tablespoons honey ((or real maple syrup)); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup coconut oil ((or extra virgin olive oil)); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cranberries ((or other dried fruit))

Granola is one of those delightful breakfast staples that can instantly elevate your morning routine. Whether you enjoy it as a topping on yogurt, mixed into smoothies, or simply enjoyed with milk, homemade granola is a game-changer. It’s so much healthier and tastier than store-bought versions, and once you’ve mastered this Easy Homemade Granola recipe, you’ll be hooked! Let’s dive into creating a delicious batch with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about.

Why Easy Homemade Granola is Worth Your Time

Making your own granola allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you avoid unnecessary additives and sugars. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to create something delicious from scratch. Homemade granola is versatile, meaning you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want more crunch? Add extra nuts. Prefer a sweeter granola? Increase the honey or maple syrup. The possibilities are endless, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create your Easy Homemade Granola, gather the following ingredients:

3 cups old-fashioned oats (not quick oats)
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup sliced almonds or any other nut you prefer (like pecans or walnuts)
3 tablespoons honey or real maple syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries or other dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cherries, etc.)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:

Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for even baking.
Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all your ingredients.
Spatula: For spreading the granola evenly on the baking sheet.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the recipe.

Stepwise Method: Easy Homemade Granola

Now that you have everything ready, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making your Easy Homemade Granola.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and become wonderfully golden.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, shredded coconut, sliced almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, and melted coconut oil (or olive oil) until smooth. This mixture will act as a binding agent and add sweetness to your granola.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well-coated. You want to ensure that each oat and nut is covered, as this will lead to delicious clumps once baked.

Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper, then spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet. Use a spatula to press it down gently, creating an even layer for optimal baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through to ensure it bakes evenly. You want it to be golden brown and fragrant.

Step 7: Add Dried Fruit

Once the granola is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, stir in the dried cranberries or your choice of dried fruit.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, it will become crispy and crunchy.

Step 9: Store

Transfer your homemade granola to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, though it’s unlikely to last that long!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Nuts: Use any variety of nuts you have on hand, such as walnuts, cashews, or hazelnuts.
Sweeteners: Agave syrup or brown rice syrup can be used in place of honey or maple syrup.
Oil: Substitute coconut oil with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different flavor.
Dried fruits: Feel free to mix and match dried fruits like apricots, cherries, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This Easy Homemade Granola recipe is highly customizable. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts, seeds, or spices!
For a protein boost, consider adding chia seeds or hemp seeds to the mixture before baking.
Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes; it can go from golden to burnt quickly.
For extra crunch, let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Your homemade granola is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for longer periods:

Refrigerate: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Freeze: Granola can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a well-sealed container.
Reheat: If your granola loses some crunch, simply spread it on a baking sheet and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Ask & Learn

Can I make granola without nuts?

Absolutely! You can omit the nuts entirely or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

How can I make my granola clumpier?

For chunkier granola, make sure to press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking. Adding a bit more oil or sweetener can also help create clusters.

Is granola healthy?

Granola can be a healthy choice, especially when made at home with wholesome ingredients. Just be mindful of the amount of added sugars and fats you use.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned oats for this recipe, as quick oats can become mushy and won’t give you the desired texture in your Easy Homemade Granola.

Next Up in Your Queue

Bring It Home

Making your own Easy Homemade Granola is not just a culinary project; it’s a way to create something wholesome and delicious for yourself and your loved ones. Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought granola again. Enjoy the process, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and savor the incredible flavors and textures that homemade granola can bring to your breakfast table. Happy baking!