Homemade Granola

There’s something absolutely satisfying about making your own granola, isn’t there? The crunch, the aroma, and the sweet-tart goodness of the dried fruit all come together to create a delightful breakfast or snack that sings comfort and nourishment. Before I stumbled upon this homemade granola recipe, I often found myself grabbing a box off the grocery store shelf, only to be disappointed by the over-processed, sugary versions that never quite hit the mark. Now, with this easy and budget-friendly version, I can whip up a batch that not only saves money but also allows me to customize every ingredient just the way I like it.

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Homemade Granola

What I love most is how this homemade granola recipe is endlessly adaptable. Whether you fancy it as a topping for yogurt, an addition to smoothie bowls, or a simple snack by the handful, it fits perfectly into any routine. Plus, the combination of crunchy nuts, hearty oats, and sweet maple syrup guarantees it will become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you give it a try, you won’t look back at store-bought granola again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: You can prepare this homemade granola in under an hour, making it a speedy and satisfying option for meal prep.
  • Irresistible Flavor: With a perfect blend of sweet maple syrup and nutty goodness, each bite is a burst of delightful flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: Those golden clusters of granola not only taste great but also look beautiful in a jar on your kitchen counter.
  • Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a crunchy topping on your favorite desserts; it fits any occasion!
  • Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customizable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets, making it a great choice for everyone.
Homemade Granola

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 egg white: This helps bind the granola together and gives it structure. If you’re making a vegan version, substitute with a flax “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil: Provides healthy fats and helps achieve that perfect crunch. You can also use coconut oil for a subtle tropical flavor.
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: A must for an aromatic flavor that complements the oats and nuts beautifully.
  • 1/2 tsp pure almond extract: Adds depth; if you’re not a fan of almond, feel free to skip it.
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that binds everything together. Honey or agave syrup can work too if you’re looking for alternatives.
  • 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats: The heart of your granola; they provide texture and chewiness. Ensure they are gluten-free if necessary.
  • 1/2 cup raw walnuts: They introduce a rich, earthy flavor and a pleasant crunch.
  • 1/2 cup raw almonds or sliced almonds or pecans: Choose your favorite nut; it can be a mix!
  • 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds: Great for adding healthy nutrients; sunflower seeds can be a tasty substitute.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: This lends a fantastic chewiness and subtle sweetness.
  • 1 cup dried fruit: Adds natural sweetness; go for cranberries, cherries, or raisins based on your preference.
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon: A cozy spice that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Homemade Granola Recipe

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the stage for crisping up that granola wonderfully. Don’t forget to line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later!

Whisk the egg white: Take one egg white in a bowl and whisk it vigorously until it’s frothy and light. If you prefer a vegan option, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed with 3 tablespoons of water in a bowl to create your flax “egg.” Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it thickens up.

Chop the nuts: Grab your almonds and walnuts. Using a food processor or blender, pulse them a few times until they are coarsely chopped. You can also do this by hand with a sharp knife if you prefer. The key is to have a good mix of sizes for that lovely crunch.

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, 3 cups of gluten-free rolled oats, 1/2 cup of raw pumpkin seeds, 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Give it a big stir to ensure everything is well mixed.

Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of avocado oil, 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract until fully combined. Carefully pour this mixture over your dry ingredients, followed by your whisked egg white or flax “egg.” Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Spread the mixture: Now, pour your granola mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Using your hands, press it down firmly to create an even layer. This pressing step is crucial as it helps form those nice clusters!

Bake to perfection: Slide the sheet into your preheated oven and bake for anywhere between 35 to 45 minutes. Stay close and check regularly until the edges are golden brown and frangrant. The wait is worth it, trust me!

Cool and mix in fruit: Once your granola is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for an hour. This cooling time is essential for achieving those delightful large clusters. When it’s cool, gently fold in 1 cup of your choice of dried fruit, like cherries or cranberries.

Store for later: Transfer your cooled granola into a large zip lock bag or an airtight jar. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 10 days – perfect for grabbing a quick bite on busy mornings.

Homemade Granola

Storing & Reheating

To keep your homemade granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag. To refresh any frozen granola, simply pop it in the oven at 350 degrees for 5 minutes to bring back some of that crunchy texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Avoid burning your granola by stirring it halfway through baking. This ensures that it bakes evenly and the edges won’t get too dark.
  • If you want to enhance flavors, feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cardamom in addition to cinnamon.
  • Always cool your granola completely before storing; this helps maintain the crunchy texture!
  • Experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on your preference or what you have on hand; variety is key to staying excited about your granola!
  • Making it in double batches can save time in your busy week.

Crafting your own granola at home leads to not just a delicious result but also a rewarding experience. You have the ability to tailor every bite to your liking, whether that’s sweeter, crunchier, or packed with your favorite fruits and nuts. Just think about how wonderful it will be to share this with family and friends, or simply savor it yourself. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or a topping for your favorite dessert, this homemade granola recipe is a must-try! Enjoy your culinary adventure, and get ready to experience the delightful crunch and sensational flavors that come from making your very own.

Recipe FAQs

How do I customize the granola?

Feel free to play around with the nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your own unique blend. You can also swap out maple syrup for honey or agave if you prefer, and add more or less cinnamon according to your taste.

Can I make this granola nut-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the nuts with more seeds, such as sunflower seeds or even more pumpkin seeds. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to dietary needs.

What should I do if my granola is too soft?

If your granola doesn’t achieve the desired crunchiness after baking, pop it back in the oven for a few extra minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

How can I serve my homemade granola?

There are so many delicious ways to enjoy your granola! It’s great served with yogurt and fresh fruit, as a topping for smoothies, or even as a munchie straight from the jar.

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Homemade-Granola-Recipe

Homemade Granola

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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 14 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Enjoy a delightful Homemade Granola that combines the delightful flavors of oats, nuts, and maple syrup. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack, offering a wonderful blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 egg white
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp pure almond extract
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup raw walnuts
  • 1/2 cup raw almonds or sliced almonds or pecans
  • 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dried fruit
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Whisk the egg white until frothy, or prepare a flax 'egg' by mixing ground flax seed and water in a bowl and letting it thicken for about 10 minutes.
  • Coarsely chop the walnuts and almonds using a food processor or chef's knife.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, oats, pumpkin seeds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the avocado oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and almond extract. Add to the dry mixture along with the egg mixture and stir until combined.
  • Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and press down to form an even layer.
  • Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until golden-brown around the edges. Let it cool for one hour to set and form clusters, then mix in the dried fruit.
  • Store in a zip lock bag or jar for up to 10 days, and serve with yogurt or milk.

Notes

For a vegan option, substitute the egg white with a flax ‘egg’.
Store your granola in an airtight container for maximum freshness.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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