Easy Homemade Granola
If you’re looking for the perfect breakfast or snack that’s both delicious and nutritious, look no further than this Easy Homemade Granola. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, sprinkled over your smoothie, or simply by the handful, this granola will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful treat!
Why It Works Every Time
This Easy Homemade Granola is a winner for several reasons. First, the combination of old-fashioned oats, nuts, and shredded coconut creates a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. The sweetener, whether honey or maple syrup, binds everything together, ensuring that each bite is infused with flavor. The addition of cinnamon and salt balances the sweetness perfectly, making it an irresistible choice for breakfast or a midday snack. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredient List
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats (not quick oats)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup sliced almonds (or any other nut you prefer, such as 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 like raisins, apricots, or cherries)
Appliances & Accessories
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the ingredients.
- Baking sheet – to spread the granola evenly for baking.
- Parchment paper – to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Spatula – for mixing and spreading the granola.
- Oven – to bake the granola to crunchy perfection.
Easy Homemade Granola, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your granola will bake evenly and achieve that delightful crunch.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of sliced almonds, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, mix together the 3 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup), 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of coconut oil (or olive oil). If your coconut oil is solid, you may need to microwave it for a few seconds until it melts.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, mix everything until the oats and nuts are well coated with the sweet mixture.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with the spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning. You want a golden-brown color.
Step 7: Add Dried Fruit
Once the granola is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, mix in the 1 cup of dried cranberries or your choice of dried fruit.
Step 8: Store and Enjoy
Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps it stay crunchy and fresh.
No-Store Runs Needed
- Old-fashioned oats – A pantry staple, perfect for breakfast and baking.
- Shredded coconut – Adds a tropical flair and chewy texture.
- Sliced almonds or nuts – Provides healthy fats and protein.
- Honey or maple syrup – Natural sweeteners that enhance flavor.
- Brown sugar – For that rich sweetness and caramel flavor.
- Coconut oil or olive oil – Healthy fats that help bind the ingredients.
- Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Dried cranberries or other dried fruit – Adds chewiness and natural sweetness.
Chef’s Rationale
This Easy Homemade Granola is designed to be flexible and forgiving. You can switch up the nuts and dried fruits based on what you have in your pantry. The key is to maintain the balance of dry and wet ingredients for the best texture. Using old-fashioned oats is crucial, as they provide the perfect chewiness and structure, unlike quick oats which can turn mushy. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for creativity, making it a fun kitchen adventure!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Store your Easy Homemade Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just make sure to let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying it again. There’s no need to reheat; this granola is perfect enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
Questions People Ask
Can I use different nuts or seeds in this granola?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any nuts or seeds you prefer or have on hand. Pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds would all work beautifully!
Is it possible to make this granola gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure you are using certified gluten-free oats to keep it gluten-free. All the other ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add chocolate to my granola?
Definitely! You can mix in chocolate chips or cacao nibs once the granola has cooled. This adds a delightful chocolatey flavor!
How can I make this granola more protein-packed?
Consider adding protein powder to the wet ingredients or mixing in some chia seeds or hemp seeds for an extra protein boost.
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Final Thoughts
Creating your own Easy Homemade Granola is not only satisfying but also allows you to enjoy a wholesome snack without the preservatives and added sugars found in many store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can whip up a batch that’s perfectly tailored to your taste. So why not give it a try? Your mornings (and snacking) will never be the same! Enjoy every crunchy, delicious bite!
Easy Homemade Granola
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your granola will bake evenly and achieve that delightful crunch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of sliced almonds, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the 3 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup), 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of coconut oil (or olive oil). If your coconut oil is solid, you may need to microwave it for a few seconds until it melts.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, mix everything until the oats and nuts are well coated with the sweet mixture.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with the spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning. You want a golden-brown color.
- Once the granola is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, mix in the 1 cup of dried cranberries or your choice of dried fruit.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps it stay crunchy and fresh.
Notes
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- Mix in different nuts or seeds based on your preference for variety!
