Easy Homemade Granola

Granola is the perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and wholesome, making it an ideal breakfast or snack option. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the flavors and textures to suit your taste. Making your own granola at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality while avoiding unnecessary additives found in many store-bought versions. This Easy Homemade Granola recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will keep you energized throughout the day. Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade granola!

Top Reasons to Make Easy Homemade Granola

• Healthier Ingredients: You can choose high-quality, wholesome ingredients without added preservatives.
• Customizable: Tailor the flavors and textures to your liking by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
• Cost-Effective: Making granola at home is often cheaper than purchasing gourmet varieties from the store.
• Freshness Guaranteed: Homemade granola is fresher and tastes better than many pre-packaged options.
• Delightful Aroma: The smell of granola baking in your oven is an experience that simply can’t be replicated.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 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)

Recommended Tools

• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet to spread out the granola evenly.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine all of your ingredients easily.
• Spatula: For stirring and spreading the granola on the baking sheet.
• Storage Container: An airtight container to keep your granola fresh.

Make Easy Homemade Granola: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crunch in your granola.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, and melted coconut oil (or olive oil) until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, and use a spatula to mix everything together thoroughly. Make sure all the oats and nuts are coated evenly.

Step 6: Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep it in a single layer for even baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn; you want it to be golden brown.

Step 8: Add Dried Fruit

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

Step 9: Cool and Store

Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage.

No-Store Runs Needed

• Use a variety of nuts you have on hand; this recipe is forgiving!
• Substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Mix in seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower, if you want to add more nutrients.
• Experiment with spices—vanilla extract or nutmeg can add a unique twist.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of Easy Homemade Granola lies in its versatility. The base of oats and nuts provides a hearty foundation, while shredded coconut adds a hint of tropical sweetness. The honey or maple syrup acts as a binding agent, ensuring each crunchy cluster sticks together. The optional cinnamon gives warmth, and the dried fruit adds a burst of sweetness, balancing the earthy flavors of the nuts and oats. You can easily pivot this recipe, swapping ingredients to create a flavor profile that suits your personal taste or seasonal preferences.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you’ve made a double batch of Easy Homemade Granola, you’ll be pleased to know it freezes beautifully! Here are some tips:

• Allow the granola to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in airtight freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Granola can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Questions People Ask

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 will result in a different texture and may not hold up during baking.

How do I store my homemade granola?

Store your Easy Homemade Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Can I add fresh fruit to my granola?

Fresh fruit should not be baked with granola. Instead, add it to your bowl just before serving for a refreshing touch!

Can I customize the nuts and dried fruits?

Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to use any nuts or dried fruits you enjoy or have on hand.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Easy Homemade Granola, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or a topping for yogurt, this granola is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful crunch of your homemade granola! It’s time to dig in and savor the wholesome goodness you’ve created. Your mornings are about to get a whole lot tastier!