Homemade Granola
There’s something magical about the aroma of homemade granola wafting through your kitchen. It’s not just the delightful combination of oats, nuts, and sweeteners, but the anticipation that you’re about to create something utterly delicious. With each ingredient carefully selected, this granola transforms into a perfect blend of crunch and flavor that’s far superior to anything you might find in stores. Plus, making this homemade granola recipe is so easy and offers a world of customization, turning ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary one.
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I vividly remember the first time I tried making homemade granola. I was flipping through a cookbook, and the simplicity of the recipe jumped out at me. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, I couldn’t resist giving it a go. As the granola baked, the warm, nutty scent filled the house, making it feel more inviting. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The best part? It’s not only budget-friendly but also a big hit, whether you enjoy it at breakfast, as a snack, or sprinkled over yogurt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Prep takes just 10 minutes and with minimal hands-on time, you can have fresh granola in about an hour.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and almond extract creates a sweet and nutty explosion that keeps you coming back for more.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden brown clusters with a variety of textures make this granola as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a topping for your favorite desserts.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by using a flax “egg,” making it versatile for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 egg white: For non-vegan granola, the egg white will help bind the mixture for those delicious clusters. You can also use a flax “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
- 1/2 cup avocado oil: This healthy oil adds richness to the granola and contributes to a perfect crisp. You could substitute it with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil if preferred.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Essential for flavoring, pure vanilla extract makes everything taste sweeter and more inviting.
- 1/2 tsp pure almond extract: Adds a delightful subtly nutty tone that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that gives the granola depth and sweetness. Honey or agave syrup can be used if you need a substitute.
- 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture, making sure they are certified gluten-free if that’s important to you.
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer a rich, buttery crunch. You may replace them with pecans for a different flavor.
- 1/2 cup raw almonds or sliced almonds or pecans: Almonds provide a mild sweetness and a nice crunch. Choose your favorite nut or even a mix for variety.
- 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds: They add a healthy crunch and a dose of protein. Sunflower seeds can be used as an alternative.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: The coconut adds a hint of tropical flavor and helps balance the sweetness. If you’re not a fan, feel free to omit it.
- 1 cup dried fruit: Dried cranberries or cherries add tang and sweetness, giving your granola more character.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Offers warmth and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the granola, enhancing its overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the sweet flavors while balancing it out perfectly.
How to Make Homemade Granola Recipe
Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. In the meantime, prep a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Whisk the Egg White: In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk the egg white until it becomes frothy. For a vegan option, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it thickens.
Chop the Nuts: Take the walnuts and almonds, and pulse them in a food processor a few times until they’re coarsely chopped. Alternatively, you can chop them with a sharp knife—just be careful not to chop too finely.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the rolled oats, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and mix everything well until evenly combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Then add in the whisked egg white or flax “egg,” stirring until everything is well incorporated.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir until all the oats and nuts are fully coated in the sweet goodness.
Spread and Bake: Move the granola mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to press it down to create an even layer, which helps form those coveted clusters. Place the baking sheet on the center rack of your oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Cool and Mix in Fruit: Once your granola is ready, take it out of the oven, and let it sit for one hour. This cooling period is essential for the granola to harden into big clusters. After it cools, mix in your dried fruit for that extra burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Once completely cool, transfer your homemade granola to a large zip lock bag or an airtight jar for storage. At room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to 10 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw at room temperature—no need to reheat as it tastes best straight from the jar!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allowing the granola to cool completely is crucial for creating those delicious clusters. Be patient, and resist the urge to dig in immediately!
- Be Mindful of Baking Time: Keep an eye on your granola as ovens vary; you want that golden-brown color without burning it.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to mix and swap nuts according to what you have available—a variety always adds delightful flavor.
- Enhance the Flavors: Consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm twist. You could also chop up dark chocolate for a sweet treat!
- Make it Ahead: This granola is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch at the start of your week for easy breakfasts or snacks.
There’s so much to love about this homemade granola recipe. Not only is it a wonderfully easy way to start your day, but it also brings together the flavors and textures of your favorite breakfast ingredients. It lets you create something special without breaking the bank, and I assure you, once you’ve tried it, store-bought granola will never taste the same. Feel free to unleash your creativity and mix in any nuts or dried fruits you have on hand. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Recipe FAQs
How should I store homemade granola?
Keep your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months, though texture may change slightly after thawing.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. This will make your homemade granola safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute the nuts in this granola?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or even seeds. Pecans, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts all work wonderfully in this recipe.
What other ways can I enjoy my homemade granola?
This granola is versatile! Enjoy it mixed with yogurt, sprinkled over smoothies, as a topping on desserts, or simply by the handful as a snack. It’s perfect for any occasion!
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📖 Recipe Card
Homemade Granola
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 14 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade granola is perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. With its irresistible flavor and simple preparation, you’ll love this blend of oats, nuts, and dried fruit. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, this granola is a fantastic addition to your mornings!
Ingredients
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 cup avocado oil
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp pure almond extract
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts
- 1/2 cup raw almonds or sliced almonds or pecans
- 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup dried fruit
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk the egg white in a bowl until frothy, or prepare a flax 'egg' for a vegan version.
- Chop the almonds and walnuts coarsely using a food processor or a knife.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, oats, pumpkin seeds, coconut, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and almond extract, then pour it into the mixing bowl with the dry ingredients along with the egg white or flax 'egg.' Mix everything well.
- Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press down into an even layer.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until the edges are golden-brown. Allow the granola to sit for one hour to set and create clusters. Mix in the dried fruit once cooled.
- Store the granola in a zip lock bag or jar for up to 10 days.
Notes
For a nut-free version, skip the nuts or substitute with seeds.
Feel free to customize the dried fruit mix according to your taste.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
