Homemade granola is not only ridiculously easy to make, but it’s also customizable, healthy, and perfect for snacking, breakfast, or even as a topping for your yogurt. Plus, the smell of freshly baked granola filling your kitchen is nothing short of irresistible.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect granola is all about balance: the right amount of crunch, sweetness, and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup raw nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans work great)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Quarter cup of honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended)
Recipe (Procedure)
Here’s how you can make this tasty snack from scratch:
1. Preheat and Prep
First, start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In addition, in a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, raw nuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly mixed. These dry ingredients will form the crunchy base of your granola.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
Furthermore, in a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and peanut butter (if using). Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. Finally, pour this wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure everything is coated evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection
Similarly, spread the granola mixture in a thin, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Additionally, bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Finally, the granola should turn golden and crisp, filling your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Once the granola is done baking, put it out from the oven and let it cool completely and make friends with the baking sheet. After it cools, stir in the dried fruit and chocolate chips, if desired. These additions add flavor and texture, making your homemade granola even more satisfying.
6. Store and Enjoy
Once the granola has cooled and you’ve added your mix-ins, store it in an airtight container. To clarify, it will stay fresh for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long. Hence, you can enjoy it as a quick snack, sprinkle it over yogurt, or pair it with your favorite milk for a wholesome breakfast.
Conclusion
Homemade granola is more than just a healthy snack—it’s a versatile, customizable treat that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. You control the ingredients, so you can make it as sweet, nutty, or fruity as you like. Finally, the satisfaction of making your own granola from scratch makes it taste even better.
MM Khan
MM Khan is a storyteller at heart, blending his love for food and travel into engaging blog posts. With a knack for breaking down complex recipes into simple steps, he makes cooking fun for everyone. Whether he’s exploring street food or fine dining, his honest reviews and practical tips bring flavors to life. Follow him for tasty inspiration.
