If you're looking to make a tasty granola, start with 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of nuts, and 1/2 cup of seeds. Mix these dry ingredients in a bowl. In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup with 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil and a splash of vanilla. Stir the wet mix into the dry ingredients and spread everything on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway. Let it cool before storing in an airtight container. You've got a delicious snack ready to go, and there's more to explore!
Key Takeaways
- Combine 3 cups rolled oats, 1 cup nuts, and 1/2 cup seeds for a nutritious granola base.
- Mix 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup and 1/4 cup melted coconut oil for natural sweetness and binding.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mixture for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Allow granola to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Serve with milk or yogurt, or use as a topping for desserts and salads for added crunch.
History

Granola has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century, when it was first created as a health food.
You might be surprised to learn that it originated from the work of Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, who aimed to promote healthy eating at his sanitarium. He developed a baked mixture of oats, which eventually evolved into what we now know as granola.
As the years went by, this wholesome snack gained popularity, particularly among health-conscious individuals.
By the 1960s and 1970s, granola became a staple of the counterculture movement, symbolizing a return to natural, unprocessed foods.
Today, you can find countless varieties, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or a quick snack on the go.
Recipe

Granola is a nutritious and versatile breakfast option that combines oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners, creating a crunchy, wholesome treat that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for yogurt and fruit. Not only is it easy to make at home, but it also allows you to customize the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you prefer a classic mix with honey and almonds or a more adventurous version with coconut and dried fruit, homemade granola is a delightful addition to your morning routine.
Making granola is a great way to guarantee that you know exactly what goes into your food, avoiding preservatives and excessive sugars often found in store-bought options. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a batch of granola that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins)
To prepare your granola, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, salt, and cinnamon if using.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well blended. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the dried fruit, then store it in an airtight container.
When making granola, feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have available or your personal preferences. For a more indulgent version, you can add chocolate chips after the granola has cooled.
Keep an eye on the granola while it bakes, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly. Finally, homemade granola can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or as a healthy snack throughout the day.
Cooking Steps

To start making your granola, you'll want to preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix your dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients gradually.
Once everything's combined, spread the mixture on a baking sheet and get ready to bake!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Before you plunge into making your delicious granola, preheating your oven to 350°F is essential. This step guarantees that your granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crunch you desire.
Start by turning on your oven and adjusting the temperature dial or pressing the buttons until it reads 350°F. It's a good idea to give your oven a few minutes to reach that ideal temperature before you place your granola mixture inside.
While waiting, you can gather your ingredients and prepare the rest of your recipe. Remember, a properly preheated oven makes a world of difference in baking, so don't skip this step.
Your granola will thank you for it once it's done!
Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients Thoroughly

With your oven preheated and ready, it's time to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and any spices you enjoy, like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Make certain to use a whisk or a spoon to break up any clumps and evenly distribute the ingredients. This step is essential as it guarantees every bite of your granola is packed with flavor and texture.
If you're adding sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup, now's the time to incorporate them in a way that they blend seamlessly into the mixture.
Take your time with this process, as a well-mixed dry blend will lead to a more uniform and delicious final product.
Step 3. Add Wet Ingredients Gradually

As you prepare to add the wet ingredients, it's important to do so gradually for the best results.
Start by pouring in a small amount of your chosen wet ingredients, like honey or maple syrup, while stirring the dry mixture. This helps guarantee everything combines evenly without clumping.
Continue adding the wet ingredients in small increments, mixing well after each addition. Watch for the texture; you want it to be sticky but not overly wet.
If you add too much at once, it can lead to uneven coating, making your granola clump together too much during baking.
Take your time, and enjoy the process—your patience will pay off in a delicious, well-balanced granola.
Step 4. Spread Mixture on Baking Sheet

Once you've mixed the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly, it's time to spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
Grab a large, rimmed baking sheet to prevent spills. Using a spatula or your hands, scoop the granola mixture onto the sheet, ensuring it's spread out in a thin, even layer. This helps it cook uniformly.
Make sure to leave a little space between clumps to allow for even browning. If you notice any large chunks, break them apart gently; you want a nice, crunchy texture.
Once you've spread everything out, take a moment to press it down slightly with your spatula. This will help the granola clump together nicely while it bakes.
Now, you're all set for the next step!
Step 5. Bake for 25 Minutes

Now that your granola mixture is evenly spread on the baking sheet, it's time to bake it.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) if you haven't already. Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven and set a timer for 25 minutes.
As it bakes, the delightful aroma of toasting oats and nuts will fill your kitchen. Halfway through, give the granola a good stir to guarantee even browning.
Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; you want a golden color without burning. Once the timer goes off, take it out and let it cool on the sheet.
It'll crisp up as it cools, making it perfect for snacking or topping your favorite yogurt.
Final Thoughts

While you might enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, creating your perfect granola can be a delightful journey.
Remember, the beauty of homemade granola lies in its versatility. You can mix and match nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don't hesitate to adjust the sweetness or add spices to create your signature blend. Adding a protein-rich ingredient, like egg rollups(#), can enhance the nutritional value of your breakfast.
Once you've nailed your recipe, you'll find that making granola becomes a satisfying routine. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to store-bought options packed with preservatives.
Enjoy it as a breakfast staple, a snack, or even a topping for yogurt. So, gather your favorite ingredients, get creative, and savor the fruits of your labor. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely morning or seeking a tasty pick-me-up during the day, there are endless possibilities to elevate your meals. If you’re a coffee lover, consider exploring some nespresso cold brew recipe ideas to complement your dishes and satisfy your caffeine cravings. From refreshing smoothies to delicious dessert-inspired treats, let your imagination run wild as you discover new ways to enjoy your ingredients!
Happy granola-making!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Honey With a Vegan Alternative?
Absolutely, you can substitute honey with a vegan alternative!
Maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup are great options that work well in recipes. They provide similar sweetness and consistency, so you won't notice much difference.
Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly depending on which substitute you choose.
Experiment a bit to find what suits your taste best, and you'll create a delicious outcome without using honey!
How Long Does Homemade Granola Last?
Homemade granola can last about two weeks when stored properly. You should keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness.
If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life to a month or more.
Just make sure you check for any signs of spoilage, like an off-smell or unusual texture, before enjoying your delicious creation.
Is Granola Gluten-Free?
Granola isn't inherently gluten-free, but it can be. If it contains oats, make certain those oats are certified gluten-free, as regular oats may be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing.
You'll also want to check other ingredients, like sweeteners or add-ins, to confirm they're gluten-free too.
When you make your own granola, you can control all the ingredients, guaranteeing it's safe for your gluten-sensitive diet. Enjoy a delicious and healthy snack!
Can I Add Protein Powder to Granola?
Yes, you can definitely add protein powder to your granola!
It's a great way to boost the protein content and make your snack more filling. Just mix in your desired amount of protein powder with the dry ingredients before baking.
Keep in mind that it might alter the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients.
Experiment a bit to find the perfect balance that works for you!
What Are Some Granola Topping Ideas?
When you're looking to enhance your granola, think about toppings that add flavor and texture.
You can sprinkle on fresh fruits like berries or banana slices for sweetness. Nuts and seeds, such as almonds or chia seeds, deliver crunch and healthy fats.
If you want a touch of indulgence, try drizzling honey or maple syrup. For a bit of spice, consider adding cinnamon or cacao nibs.
Mix and match to find your perfect combination!