why make this recipe
Making Healthy Granola at home is a great way to enjoy a nutritious snack or breakfast. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that you can customize to your taste. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and far healthier than most store-bought options, which can be high in sugar and artificial additives. Plus, making your own granola allows you to control the flavors and textures, making it the perfect fit for you and your family!
how to make Healthy Granola
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup dried fruit, chopped if large
- 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cup raw nuts and/or seeds
- 1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts/seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the maple syrup (or honey), melted oil, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
- Allow it to cool completely before adding the dried fruit.
- Store in an airtight container.
how to serve Healthy Granola
You can serve Healthy Granola in various ways. Enjoy it with milk or yogurt for a hearty breakfast. You can also sprinkle it on top of smoothie bowls or eat it as a snack on its own. Mixing it with fresh fruits makes for a delicious and energizing treat!
how to store Healthy Granola
To keep your Healthy Granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last about two weeks. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it, and it will stay good for several months. Just make sure to let it thaw before enjoying.
tips to make Healthy Granola
- Feel free to change the nuts and seeds according to what you have on hand.
- You can add a bit more cinnamon or other spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.
- If you want chunkier granola, press the mixture down on the baking sheet before baking.
- Experiment with different dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots.
variation
You can create many variations of Healthy Granola. For example, you can try adding chocolate chips for a sweeter treat or incorporate coconut flakes for a tropical twist. You can also make it grain-free by using nuts instead of oats and swapping in seeds for a satisfying crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but rolled oats give a better texture to the granola. Quick oats may result in a softer granola.
2. Is it necessary to use oil in the recipe?
Using oil helps bind the ingredients and gives the granola a crunchy texture. If you prefer, you can try mixing with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
3. How can I make my granola sweeter?
You can increase the amount of maple syrup or honey in the recipe. Adding a bit of brown sugar will also enhance the sweetness.