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.
Crunchy & Delicious Homemade Granola
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl for combining all the dry and wet ingredients easily.
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons for accurate measurement of oats, nuts, syrup, oil, and spices.
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the granola mixture thoroughly without damaging ingredients.
- 1 Baking sheet (or baking tray) a flat surface to spread the granola evenly for baking.
- 1 Parchment paper (or silicone baking mat) prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- 1 Oven for baking the granola to a golden, crunchy finish.
- 1 Airtight container (optional) for keeping the granola fresh and crunchy after cooling.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Old-fashioned rolled oats The base of the granola; ensures a hearty texture.
- 1/2 cup Raw nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans) Adds crunch and healthy fats; choose your preferred variety.
- 1/4 cup Unsweetened shredded coconut Adds flavor and texture; optional based on preference.
- 1/4 cup Honey or maple syrup Natural sweetener; adjust for desired sweetness.
- 1/4 cup Coconut oil Helps bind the granola together and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup Peanut butter (optional) For added richness and flavor; optional but recommended.
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds a pleasant flavor depth to the granola.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Provides warmth and spice to the granola mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1/2 cup Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots) Adds a chewy texture and natural sweetness; optional.
- 1/4 cup Dark chocolate chips (optional) For an indulgent touch; optional for a sweeter taste.
Instructions
- Preheat and PrepFirst, 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.
- Mix the Dry IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, raw nuts, and shredded coconut.3 cups Old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/2 cup Raw nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), 1/4 cup Unsweetened shredded coconut
- Add the Wet IngredientsIn a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), coconut oil, and peanut butter (if using).1/4 cup Honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup Coconut oil, 1/4 cup Peanut butter (optional)
- Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture and stir to combine.1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Add the Finishing TouchesPour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to PerfectionBake for 25–30 minutes, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.
- After baking, remove from the oven and let the granola cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Once cooled, add the dried fruit and dark chocolate chips (if using).1/2 cup Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots), 1/4 cup Dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Store and EnjoyStore the granola in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Storage: Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out the nuts, dried fruits, or sweeteners based on your preferences. You can add chocolate chips for a sweeter version or add chia seeds for extra nutrition.
- Mix-ins: To make this recipe more protein-packed, try adding pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or a scoop of protein powder.
- Baking Tips: Make sure to stir the granola at least once during baking to ensure even crispiness. Don’t overbake, as it can burn quickly.
- For Gluten-Free Version: Ensure the oats are labeled gluten-free and use gluten-free oats.
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 for Homemade granola
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.