Description
This Healthy Homemade Granola is a wholesome and delicious breakfast or snack option made from rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners. Baked to golden perfection with fragrant cinnamon and enhanced with dried fruits, this granola is both nutritious and versatile. Perfect for a vegan and gluten-free diet when using certified oats, it provides a satisfying crunch and a boost of energy to start your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raw nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, roughly chopped)
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- ¼ cup flaxseeds or chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- â…“ cup coconut oil or olive oil
- â…“ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- ½ cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, flaxseeds or chia seeds, shredded coconut if using, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
- Warm wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the coconut or olive oil with the maple syrup or honey, stirring until melted and the mixture is smooth and combined. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the warm wet mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the syrupy oil mixture, ensuring flavor throughout your granola.
- Prepare for baking: Spread the coated granola in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps the granola cook uniformly and develop a perfect golden color.
- Bake the granola: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through baking, remove the sheet and stir the granola to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Cool and add dried fruit: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools. Once cool, stir in your choice of dried fruit to add sweetness and texture.
- Storage: Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Notes
- Customize this recipe by using your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- For extra crunch, press the granola firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring during baking.
- Using certified gluten-free oats makes this recipe safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
