Granola Recipe

Granola is one of those versatile, delicious, and nutritious snacks that everyone should have in their kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast cereal, a topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls, or simply as a crunchy snack, homemade granola offers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and customizable flavors. Making your own granola is not only easy but also allows you to control the sweetness, texture, and ingredients according to your taste and dietary preferences. This recipe is packed with natural sweetness, crunchy nuts, and a hint of warm spices that make every bite satisfying and delightful.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This granola recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with richness. It uses natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients that nourish your body without any artificial additives. The recipe is easy to customize, so whether you love it nutty, fruity, or with a touch of chocolate, you can adjust it to suit your cravings. It’s perfect for busy mornings or as an on-the-go snack to keep your energy up throughout the day. Plus, the baking process creates that perfect golden crunch that’s hard to resist. Making granola at home also means fewer preservatives and a fresher taste compared to store-bought options.

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup raw almonds, chopped
• 1/2 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

How To Make Granola Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well blended. This mixture will bind the dry ingredients and add a lovely sweetness and flavor.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to thoroughly combine everything, making sure all the oats and nuts are coated with the syrup mixture.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.

Step 6: Add Dried Fruits and Chocolate

Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, sprinkle the dried cranberries or raisins and, if using, the dark chocolate chips. The residual heat will slightly soften the chocolate, creating delightful pockets of sweetness.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container. It’s ready to be enjoyed immediately or stored for later use.

Expert Tips

• Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor and texture of your granola depend heavily on the quality of your oats, nuts, and sweeteners. Choose fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your preference. You can also substitute with honey or date syrup if you prefer.
• Even Toasting: Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure it browns evenly and prevents burning on the edges.
• Cooling is Key: Allow the granola to cool completely before storing. This helps it crisp up and prevents sogginess.
• Make It Chunky: Press down on the granola gently with the back of a spatula before baking to create larger clusters if you prefer chunkier granola.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with extra seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Variations and Customizations

• Tropical Twist: Add dried pineapple, mango, and macadamia nuts for a sunny, tropical flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Stir in cocoa powder with the dry ingredients and add dark chocolate chips after baking.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger along with the cinnamon for a warm spice blend.
• Nut Butter Delight: Mix in a few tablespoons of almond or peanut butter with the wet ingredients for a richer taste.
• Fruit and Nut Mix: Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried apricots, cherries, or dates, and use pecans or cashews instead of walnuts.
• Seed Only: For a gluten-free and grain-free version, replace oats with extra seeds like flaxseed, chia, and hemp seeds.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup. For longer storage, you can freeze granola in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it at room temperature or enjoy it straight from the freezer for a crunchy, cold snack.

FAQ

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While quick oats can be used, rolled oats are preferred because they have a thicker texture and hold up better during baking, resulting in a crunchier granola. Quick oats may become too soft or powdery.

Is it possible to make this granola vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses maple syrup and coconut oil instead of honey or butter. Just be sure all your ingredients, like chocolate chips, are plant-based.

How can I make my granola less sweet?

Simply reduce the amount of maple syrup or substitute half of it with unsweetened applesauce for a less sweet and moist granola. You can also skip or reduce the dried fruit, which adds natural sugars.

What is the best way to enjoy homemade granola?

Homemade granola is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it with your favorite milk or plant-based milk as cereal, sprinkle it over yogurt or smoothie bowls, or eat it by the handful as a healthy snack. It also works well as a topping for desserts like ice cream or fruit crisps.

Conclusion

Making your own granola is a rewarding and simple way to enjoy a wholesome, crunchy snack tailored exactly to your tastes. This recipe offers a perfect base with a balanced mix of oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweetness, which you can customize endlessly. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid the preservatives and excess sugar found in many store-bought options. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or a topping, this granola will quickly become a pantry staple. Give it a try, and you’ll never look back!