5 Easy Granola Recipes You Can Make at Home

Introduction to Homemade Granola

Granola has become an immensely popular snack and breakfast option for its convenience, delightful crunch, and the nutritious blend of ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. However, store-bought granola often contains high levels of sugar, unnecessary additives, and preservatives, which can detract from its health benefits. By making your own granola at home, you not only control what goes into it but also enjoy freshly baked goodness that’s both cost-effective and surprisingly easy to craft. Here, we’ll delve into five straightforward recipes that are perfect for breakfast bowls, yogurt toppings, or just as a snack on the go.

1. Classic Oat and Honey Granola

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₂ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the oats, nuts, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry and mix until everything is well coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
7. Allow the granola to cool on the tray; it will harden as it cools.

🔹 Note: You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version.

2. Chocolate Chip and Coconut Granola

Ingredients:

• 4 cups rolled oats
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• ¹⁄₂ cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
• ¹⁄₄ cup maple syrup
• ¹⁄₃ cup coconut oil, melted
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Combine all ingredients except the chocolate chips in a large bowl.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Let the granola cool completely, then stir in the chocolate chips.

🔹 Note: Add the chocolate chips after baking to avoid them melting into the mix, unless you prefer a chocolaty cluster effect.

3. Spiced Pumpkin Seed Granola

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• ¹⁄₂ cup pumpkin seeds
• ¹⁄₄ cup sunflower seeds
• ¹⁄₄ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• ¹⁄₄ cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• ¹⁄₂ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¹⁄₄ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cool on the tray before storing or eating.

🔹 Note: Pumpkin pie spice can be substituted with a mix of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice if you don’t have it on hand.

4. Peanut Butter Banana Granola

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• ¹⁄₄ cup peanut butter
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the banana, peanut butter, honey or syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add oats and salt, mix well.
4. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
6. Let it cool completely before breaking apart.

5. Savory Rosemary and Olive Oil Granola

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• ¹⁄₂ cup chopped almonds
• 2 tbsp flaxseed
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
• ¹⁄₄ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even toasting.
5. Let cool completely before storing.

To sum up, making granola at home not only allows you to cater to your taste preferences but also ensures you’re consuming a product free from excessive sugars and additives. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat with chocolate and coconut or a savory snack with rosemary and olive oil, there’s a recipe here for every palate. Enjoy your baking journey and savor the delightful crunch of homemade granola.