Delicious Homemade Granola: Your Go-To Recipe for Healthy Snacking

Granola is a versatile and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed in countless ways, from breakfast to dessert. Making your own granola at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also lets you customize it to suit your taste. With a delightful mix of oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners, this homemade granola is sure to become a staple in your pantry!

Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, as a cereal, or straight from the jar, this granola recipe is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Visual Appeal

This homemade granola features an inviting golden-brown color, with various textures from the nuts and seeds, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Perfect Pairing

Enjoy your granola with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a wholesome breakfast, or sprinkle it over ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

Occasions to Serve

This granola is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, a picnic in the park, or a snack for a movie night.

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 8 cups
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving (1/2 cup)

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes to gather and mix ingredients.
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes in the oven, stirring halfway through.

Ingredients List

For the Granola

• 4 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped
• 1 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds)
• 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), added after baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil and mix in the honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Add Dried Fruits: Once golden brown, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruits.
7. Store: Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.

Tips for Perfect Granola

• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out nuts, seeds, or dried fruits based on your preferences.
• Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the granola while it bakes, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
• Clumping: For clumpier granola, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Granola is Too Soft: Ensure you bake it long enough; it should be golden brown and crisp when removed from the oven.
• Burnt Edges: Stir the granola halfway through baking to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
• Granola is Not Sweet Enough: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your taste next time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this granola gluten-free? Yes, just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
2. How can I store homemade granola? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
3. Can I add chocolate to my granola? Absolutely! You can mix in dark chocolate chips after baking for a delicious treat.
4. What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives for sweetness.
5. Is it necessary to use oil in granola? Oil helps to crisp up the granola, but you can reduce it or use applesauce for a lower-fat version.

Conclusion

Homemade granola is not only easy to make, but it is also a delightful snack that can be tailored to your taste. With wholesome ingredients and endless variations, this granola recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy eating repertoire. Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or topping for your favorite dishes, and relish the satisfaction of creating your own delicious granola at home!