Description
Are you tired of sugary cereals that leave you feeling sluggish instead of energized? According to the Whole Grains Council, consuming whole grains can significantly improve your well-being. Enter homemade granola—a deliciously crunchy, nutritious option that’s easier to make than you might think! This homemade granola recipe not only satisfies your cravings but does so with wholesome ingredients you can customize to fit your taste preferences. In this post, we’ll guide you through creating your very own delectable homemade granola that can elevate any breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats: Opt for large and thick oats for maximum crunch.
- 1 cup nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or pecans): Choose your favorite or use a combination for texture.
- 1 cup seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds): These add a delightful crunch and nutritional boost.
- 1 cup sweetener: Honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar work well; for a vegan option, stick with maple syrup.
- ½ cup oil: Coconut oil or olive oil offers great flavor; oil helps in achieving that coveted crunch.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and sweetness.
- Optional add-ins: Dried fruits, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon to personalize your granola.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as a hot oven will help crisp your granola, making it deliciously crunchy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped nuts, and 1 cup of seeds. Stir them with enthusiasm, as this blend will be the foundation of your crunchy granola!
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of your chosen sweetener, ½ cup of oil, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. This mixture should be well combined and glistening, signifying the deliciousness to come.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix everything until the oats, nuts, and seeds are evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.
Spread the mixture onto a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then stir well to promote even browning. Return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes or until golden. Keep a close watch during the last few minutes to prevent burning!
Once out of the oven, let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet—it will become crispier as it cools. After cooling, feel free to add any optional ingredients like dried fruits or chocolate chips for a personal touch.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: Healthy Fats: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Protein: 5-8g