Homemade Granola

Homemade Granola is sweet, nutty, and a versatile nutritious choice for breakfast or a quick snack. Whether sprinkled over yogurt, enjoyed with milk, or eaten by the handful as a snack, homemade granola offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also provides a powerhouse of nutrients to kick-start your day. Let’s make a batch of this wholesome goodness.

 

Why Homemade Granola?

Homemade granola offers several advantages over store-bought varieties. First and foremost, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the flavors and tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences. Additionally, making granola at home is more cost-effective in the long run and reduces packaging waste, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

 

For more quick and easy breakfast recipes check out the following:

Banana Nut Bake Oatmeal Cups
Two Ingredients Bagel

 

What ingredients you will need?

This recipe uses simple ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store.

Rolled Oats: are the base ingredient in granola, providing a hearty texture and a good source of fiber. They are less processed than quick oats, retaining more nutrients and satisfying the granola’s chewiness.
Nuts: add crunch, flavor, and nutritional value to granola. They are rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals, promoting heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.
Seeds: are nutrient-dense additions to granola, offering omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are particularly high in fiber and omega-3s, while pumpkin seeds provide zinc and magnesium.
Sweetener: bind the granola ingredients together and add a touch of sweetness. Natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, and agave nectar provide distinct flavors and some beneficial nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Oil: helps crisp up the granola during baking and contributes to its texture. Coconut oil and olive oil are both healthy fat sources, with coconut oil offering medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and olive oil providing monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Flavorings: enhance the taste and aroma of granola. Vanilla extract adds depth and sweetness, while cinnamon lends a warm, spicy flavor. Both ingredients provide additional health benefits, such as antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory effects.
Optional Add-ins: in addition, you can personalize the granola to suit individual preferences. Dried fruits add natural sweetness and chewiness, coconut flakes contribute texture and tropical flavor, and chocolate chips provide a decadent touch. These add-ins also offer vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

However, by incorporating these wholesome ingredients into your homemade granola recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack that nourishes your body and dietary needs.

 

How to make Homemade Granola?

Step 1
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, and seeds of your choice. Feel free to experiment with different combinations for varied textures and flavors.

Step 3
Add Wet Ingredients: Drizzle the sweetener and oil over the dry mixture. Add flavorings such as vanilla extract and cinnamon for extra taste.

Step 4
Stir and Spread: Mix all the ingredients until evenly coated using a spoon or your hands. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.

Step 5
Bake to Perfection: Now bake the granola in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, (optional) or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 6
Lastly, Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. Add optional add-ins like dried fruits or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

 

Health Benefits of Homemade Granola

While homemade granola is packed with nutrition, it also offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. Oats are a rich source of fiber, aiding digestion and providing long-lasting energy. Nuts and seeds contribute heart-healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. By controlling the sweeteners and oils used, you can keep added sugars and unhealthy fats in check, making homemade granola a wholesome addition to your diet.

 

How to store Homemade Granola properly and maintain its freshness:

Cool Completely: Allow the granola to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to moisture buildup and soggy granola.
Transfer to an Airtight Container: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container. This could be a glass jar, a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, or a resealable bag. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the granola.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Place the airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing granola near heat sources or in areas with high humidity, as this can cause it to become stale or spoil more quickly.
Avoid Refrigeration: While some may be tempted to refrigerate granola to extend its shelf life, it’s best to store it at room temperature. Refrigeration can introduce moisture, leading to clumping and loss of crunchiness.
Check for Freshness: Periodically check the granola for any signs of spoilage, such as off odors, mold, or changes in texture. If the granola appears or smells off, discard it to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.

Additionally, it is important to store the granola in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent moisture buildup. It is also best to avoid storing granola near heat sources or in a humid environment, as this can cause the granola to become soggy or stale. By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade granola for up to four weeks. If you’d like to extend its shelf life further, you can freeze granola in a freezer-safe container for up to three-six months. Just be sure to thaw it at room temperature before serving.

 

Recap

In addition to its crunchy texture, delightful flavors, and nutritional benefits, homemade granola is a breakfast staple worth mastering. By following this simple recipe and customizing it to your taste, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious start to your day, all while reaping the rewards of homemade goodness. Say goodbye to store-bought granola and embrace the joy of making your batch from scratch.

 

Equipment Used:

Spatula
Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

 

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The Recipe

Homemade Granola

 

Prep time: 5 minutes
Serving: 8-10
Cooking time: 20 minutes

 

Ingredients

•  3 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey, maple syrup or agave
• 1/2 cup raisin
• 1 cup sliced almond
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• Pinch of salt to taste

Optional add-ins

• Walnuts
• Pecan
• Seeds – chia seeds, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds
• Flavorings (vanilla extract, cinnamon)
• Dried fruits
• Coconut flakes
• Chocolate chips

 

Instructions

• First preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
• Add all ingredients i.e. oats, honey, salt, and coconut oil in a mixing bowl use a spatula to mix until all ingredients fully combine.
• Now ingredients to a lined baking tray using aluminum foil or parchment paper.
• Set ingredients with a spatula by slightly pressing down and bake in a preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
• Remove from oven and allow to fully cool before breaking apart then add raisins and slice almonds or toppings of choice.
• Serve and Enjoy!

 

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