Homemade Granola

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Elevate your breakfast routine with the wholesome goodness of Homemade Granola! This simple and customizable recipe allows you to create a delicious blend of oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners, all baked to golden perfection. Whether enjoyed with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for smoothie bowls, this homemade granola is sure to add a crunchy and nutritious touch to your morning meal.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, pecans, walnuts)
  • 1/2 cup seeds (such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots) (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, mixed nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut (if using). Stir until evenly mixed.
  3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a small saucepan, heat the honey or maple syrup, coconut oil or olive oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt over low heat until melted and well combined.
  4. Coat the dry ingredients: Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the liquid mixture.
  5. Spread on baking sheet: Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Cool: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to crisp up as it cools.
  8. Add dried fruits: Once cooled, stir in the dried fruits, if using.
  9. Store: Transfer the homemade granola to an airtight container or mason jar for storage. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Variations:

  • Nut-Free Granola: Substitute the mixed nuts with additional seeds or chopped dried fruits for a nut-free option.
  • Chocolate Lover’s Granola: Add a handful of chocolate chips or cacao nibs to the granola mixture for a sweet and indulgent twist.
  • Spiced Granola: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a spiced granola flavor.

Serving Tips:

  • Enjoy Homemade Granola as a nutritious breakfast cereal with milk or yogurt.
  • Sprinkle it over smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or fruit salads for added texture and flavor.
  • Pack it into snack-sized bags for a convenient on-the-go snack during the day.

Storage Tips:

  • Store Homemade Granola in an airtight container or mason jar at room temperature for up to two weeks.
  • For longer storage, freeze the granola in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:

  • Homemade Granola provides a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein from the oats, nuts, and seeds.
  • Nutritional information per serving: Calories: [insert kcal]

FAQs:

Q: Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences and dietary restrictions. You can swap out nuts, seeds, sweeteners, and add-ins to create your perfect granola blend.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free-friendly.

Conclusion:

Homemade Granola is a nutritious and versatile breakfast staple that you can easily customize to suit your taste preferences. With its crunchy texture and delicious flavor, it’s a wholesome addition to your morning routine that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.