Are you tired of store-bought granola that’s loaded with preservatives and added sugars? Look no further! This easy homemade granola recipe is not only a healthier alternative, but it also allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. With just four simple pantry staples and the freedom to add your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack in no time. Join us as we dive into the world of homemade granola, where wholesome goodness meets convenience, perfect for topping your morning yogurt or enjoying on its own!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Easy Homemade Granola |
| Author | Kristen Chidsey |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 12 |
| Calories per Serving | 129 kcal |
| Key Ingredients | 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup coconut oil (melted), 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp salt |
| Optional Add-ins | Nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, chia seeds, shredded coconut |
| Cooking Equipment | Rimmed baking sheet, parchment paper |
| Storage | Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month |
| Nutrition Information | Calories: 129 | Carbs: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g |
The Joy of Making Granola at Home
Making granola at home is not only fun but also super easy! You get to choose your favorite ingredients and create a tasty snack or breakfast just the way you like it. Plus, homemade granola is healthier than store-bought because you can avoid added sugars and preservatives. This means you can enjoy your granola with a big smile, knowing it’s made just for you!
When you make granola at home, the kitchen fills with delightful aromas as the oats toast in the oven. It’s a simple recipe that uses just four pantry staples: oats, maple syrup, coconut oil, and cinnamon. With these ingredients, you can create something delicious that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. So, gather your family and friends to join the fun of making granola together!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Granola
To make the best granola, start with old-fashioned rolled oats. These oats are the key to achieving that perfect crunchy texture. Avoid quick-cooking or steel-cut oats, as they won’t give you the same results. Next, add pure maple syrup for sweetness and melted coconut oil that helps bind everything together while adding flavor. Just a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of cinnamon will make your granola taste amazing!
Feel free to get creative with your granola! You can add nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits to give it more flavor and texture. For example, chia seeds and flaxseeds add healthy nutrients, while nuts like almonds or walnuts bring a nice crunch. Don’t forget, you can also mix in chocolate chips or coconut flakes for an extra special treat. The possibilities are endless!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Granola
Making granola is simple when you follow easy steps! First, preheat your oven and mix the rolled oats with maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and spices in a large bowl. Next, if you’re using raw nuts or seeds, toss them in now. This way, they toast perfectly in the oven. Spread everything out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Bake the mixture at a low temperature while stirring it every ten minutes. This helps the oats toast evenly and become golden brown. Once it’s done baking, let it cool completely before adding any dried fruits or chocolate chips. Finally, store your homemade granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to a month. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Creative Ways to Use Homemade Granola
Homemade granola isn’t just for breakfast! You can sprinkle it on yogurt for a tasty treat, add it to smoothies for extra crunch, or even eat it as a snack right out of the container. It’s also great for topping off desserts like ice cream or fruit salad. The versatility of granola makes it a fantastic addition to many meals and snacks throughout the day!
Another fun way to enjoy granola is by making granola bars. Just press the mixture into a pan, let it cool, and cut it into bars for a quick, on-the-go snack. You can even customize the flavors by adding different ingredients like peanut butter or honey. This means you can have a delicious and healthy snack ready whenever you need it!
Granola Variations for Every Taste
One of the best parts about making granola is how easy it is to change up the flavors. You can add different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist. If you love nuts, try adding pecans or cashews for a crunchy surprise! Remember to add raw nuts before baking and toasted nuts after for the best texture.
You can also mix in various dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or blueberries after baking. This adds sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the crunchy oats. If you’re a chocolate lover, adding chocolate chips after cooling will make your granola even more delicious! With so many options, you can create a new favorite granola mix every time!
Storing and Enjoying Your Granola
Once you’ve made your delicious homemade granola, it’s important to store it correctly to keep it fresh. Use an airtight container and place it in a cool, dark pantry. Proper storage will ensure your granola stays crispy and tasty for up to a month. You can also label the container with the date you made it, so you’ll know when it’s best to enjoy!
When you’re ready to eat, scoop out your granola and enjoy it in various ways. Whether you top your yogurt with it, add it to your morning smoothie, or snack on it straight, homemade granola is a delightful treat. You can even share it with friends and family, making breakfast time a fun and delicious occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients needed to make homemade granola?
You only need four main ingredients: old-fashioned rolled oats, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Optional add-ins can include nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate.
How long does it take to prepare homemade granola?
Making homemade granola takes about 45 minutes in total, including 5 minutes for prep and 40 minutes for baking.
Can I customize my homemade granola?
Yes! You can customize your granola by adding different nuts, seeds, spices, and dried fruits to suit your taste.
How should I store homemade granola?
Store your homemade granola in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry. It stays fresh for up to one month.
What is the best type of oats for granola?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for granola, as they provide the ideal texture. Avoid quick-cooking or steel-cut oats.
Why bake granola at a low temperature?
Baking granola at a low temperature allows the oats to toast evenly, becoming crispy without burning, which enhances flavor and texture.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute honey for maple syrup, but maple syrup adds a unique flavor that many prefer in granola.
Summary
Homemade granola is a simple and tasty breakfast option made with just four pantry staples: old-fashioned rolled oats, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon. This recipe is allergy-friendly and can be customized with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. To make it, mix the ingredients, bake until golden, and then add any optional ingredients like chocolate or dried fruit after cooling. This nutritious granola can be enjoyed as a topping for yogurt, a quick snack, or as a healthy breakfast. Store it in an airtight container for up to a month.