Homemade Granola Recipe
Homemade granola is not just a breakfast staple; it’s a canvas for your creativity and a delightful way to embrace wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or straight out of the jar, making your own granola allows you to customize flavors and textures to suit your taste. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly.
Why Homemade Granola Recipe is Worth Your Time
There are countless reasons to make homemade granola. First off, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it a perfect weekend project. You get to control every ingredient, ensuring that you use only what you love and avoiding any additives or preservatives. Additionally, you can tailor the sweetness and flavor profile exactly to your liking. Plus, it’s economical! A big batch of homemade granola can save you money compared to store-bought options, which often come in small, pricey packages. Most importantly, you’ll have a nutritious snack or breakfast option ready at your fingertips.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup sweetener (choose from: 1 cup clover honey, 1 cup pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup honey + 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup + 1/2 cup brown sugar, or 1 cup brown sugar)
- 1/2 cup organic coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or substitute more oil for a vegan version)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch kosher salt (optional, only if using unsalted nuts)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 5 cups rolled grains (oats or five-grain rolled grain cereal)
- 4 cups nuts and seeds (choose from sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, sliced almonds, chopped pecans, walnuts, pepitas, cashews, etc.)
- 1 cup of dried fruit (options include dried blueberries, chopped dried apricots, chopped dried mango, raisins, dried cranberries, etc.)
Setup & Equipment
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Oven preheated to 325°F (165°C)
Homemade Granola Recipe Cooking Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Mixture
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine your choice of sweetener, coconut oil, and butter. Stir gently until everything is melted and combined. If using, add the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled grains, nuts, and seeds. If you’re using unsalted nuts, sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt here. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm sweet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir well until all the grains and nuts are thoroughly coated.
Step 5: Spread and Bake
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want it to turn a nice golden brown.
Step 6: Add Dried Fruit
Once the granola is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Add the dried fruit and stir to combine. The granola will continue to harden as it cools.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Allow your granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into clusters and transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
Variations for Dietary Needs
- For a nut-free version, substitute nuts with additional seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as a sweetener for a lower-glycemic option.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats or rolled grains.
- Make it protein-packed by adding chia seeds or protein powder to the dry mixture.
Method to the Madness
Making homemade granola is as much about the process as it is about the final product. The beauty of granola lies in its versatility. You can play with flavors and textures, adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warming touch or incorporating different types of oils for varied richness. The combination of grains, seeds, and nuts not only provides a satisfying crunch but also delivers a powerhouse of nutrients. Each batch can be a new adventure, and best of all, it fills your home with the comforting aroma of baking.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your homemade granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about 2 weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crunch.
Common Qs About Homemade Granola Recipe
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, they may not provide the same texture. Rolled oats will give your granola a better crunch and hold up well during baking.
How can I make my granola clumpier?
For clumpier granola, use more sweetener to help bind the ingredients together. Press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking to create clusters.
Can I add chocolate to my granola?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips or cocoa nibs after baking for a delicious treat. Just allow the granola to cool completely first, so the chocolate doesn’t melt.
What’s the best way to serve homemade granola?
Homemade granola is incredibly versatile. Serve it with yogurt and fresh fruit, sprinkle it over smoothie bowls, or enjoy it with milk as a classic breakfast cereal. You can also snack on it straight from the jar!
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Ready to Cook?
So there you have it—a delicious and customizable Homemade Granola Recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a wholesome snack that will keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you enjoy it sprinkled over your morning yogurt, as a crunchy topping for smoothie bowls, or as a delightful snack on its own, you’ll love the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your granola. Happy cooking!
Homemade Granola Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine your choice of sweetener, coconut oil, and butter. Stir gently until everything is melted and combined. If using, add the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled grains, nuts, and seeds. If you're using unsalted nuts, sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt here. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the warm sweet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir well until all the grains and nuts are thoroughly coated.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want it to turn a nice golden brown.
- Once the granola is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Add the dried fruit and stir to combine. The granola will continue to harden as it cools.
- Allow your granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into clusters and transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze granola in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet for clumpier granola.
