Crunchy Homemade Granola
Homemade Granola Recipe
Granola is a popular and wholesome breakfast option or snack enjoyed by many. This Homemade Granola Recipe offers a simple way to create your own delicious and nutritious mix right in your kitchen. Whether you love it with yogurt, milk, or simply on its own, making granola at home ensures that you have control over the ingredients and flavors.
Why Make This Recipe
Making homemade granola is a great idea for several reasons. First, you can customize it to fit your tastes and dietary needs. You have the flexibility to use different nuts, seeds, or sweeteners based on what you have on hand or what you prefer. Second, it’s often healthier than store-bought granola, which can be filled with added sugars and preservatives. Lastly, it’s a budget-friendly option that allows you to create a large batch to last you for weeks, or even months if stored properly!
How to Make Homemade Granola
Making your own granola is quick and easy! Follow this simple guide to whip up a tasty batch.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats or old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup shaved or slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to line an 18×13” rimmed baking sheet, and preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add oats, almonds, and coconut flakes to a large bowl, mix well, and set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a microwaveable dish or measuring cup, combine coconut oil and honey. Microwave for 15-30 seconds to melt the oil. Then add in the maple syrup and salt, stirring to mix everything together. If needed, microwave again for an additional 15 seconds to better combine.
- Combine Mixtures: Drizzle the warm oil mixture over the dry oat mixture. Use a rubber spatula to stir and coat everything evenly. Spread the granola mixture on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is just golden.
- Cool and Store: Allow the granola to cool completely. Once cooled, break it apart with your hands and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks or freeze it for 3 months.
How to Serve Homemade Granola
You can enjoy your homemade granola in many delicious ways! It pairs well with yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast, or you can pour it over milk for a quick snack. It also makes a great topping for smoothie bowls or a crunchy addition to baked goods.
How to Store Homemade Granola
Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 4 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Frozen granola can last for about 3 months without losing its flavor or crunch.
Tips to Make Homemade Granola
- Experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to find your perfect blend.
- Make sure to stir the granola a couple of times while baking to ensure even browning.
- If you like clumps in your granola, press it down slightly before baking.
Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or raisins for added flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out honey for agave syrup or brown sugar.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, rolled oats provide a better texture and will hold their shape during baking. Quick oats tend to result in a softer granola.
2. Is it necessary to use coconut oil?
No, if you don’t have coconut oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or even unsalted butter for richness.
3. Can I make this granola gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that you are using certified gluten-free oats to make it a gluten-free recipe.
Enjoy making this easy homemade granola recipe, and feel free to make it your own!
Homemade Granola
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats or old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup shaved or slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut oil Can substitute with vegetable oil or unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey Can swap for agave syrup or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to line an 18×13” rimmed baking sheet, and preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add oats, almonds, and coconut flakes to a large bowl, mix well, and set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a microwaveable dish or measuring cup, combine coconut oil and honey. Microwave for 15-30 seconds to melt the oil. Then add in the maple syrup and salt, stirring to mix everything together. If needed, microwave again for an additional 15 seconds to better combine.
- Combine Mixtures: Drizzle the warm oil mixture over the dry oat mixture. Use a rubber spatula to stir and coat everything evenly. Spread the granola mixture on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is just golden.
Cooling and Storing
- Allow the granola to cool completely. Once cooled, break it apart with your hands and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks or freeze it for 3 months.
