Homemade granola is a healthy, crunchy, and delicious staple that you can enjoy for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. Unlike store-bought options that often contain excessive sugar and additives, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners to give you balanced nutrition with every bite. It’s naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, baked to golden perfection, and finished with dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
This granola is not only tasty but also nutrient-dense. It provides a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats that help keep you full and energized. Whether you prefer it with milk, sprinkled over yogurt, or as a crunchy snack on its own, this recipe gives you flexibility to enjoy it in different ways. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, so you always have a ready-to-go breakfast or snack option available.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Granola
- Easy to make: The recipe comes together with simple pantry staples and requires just one bowl and a baking sheet.
- Nutritious: Packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, it’s a source of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
- Customizable: You can swap the nuts, seeds, or dried fruit with your favorites, making it a recipe that adapts to your taste and dietary needs.
- Cost-effective: Preparing a big batch at home is much more affordable than buying prepackaged granola.
- Meal prep friendly: It stores well for weeks, so you’ll always have a healthy snack or breakfast topping on hand.
- Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a versatile recipe that fits into many lifestyles.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this homemade granola, you’ll need a mix of wholesome ingredients that work together to create crunch, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s a closer look at each:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (3 cups): The base of the granola, providing structure and a hearty texture. Stick to rolled oats rather than quick oats, as they hold up better during baking.
- Mixed nuts (1 cup, chopped): Almonds, walnuts, or pecans all work well. They add protein, healthy fats, and a satisfying crunch.
- Honey or maple syrup (1/2 cup): A natural sweetener that binds the granola together and gives it a light golden finish. Use maple syrup for a vegan version.
- Coconut oil (1/3 cup, melted): Ensures even baking and helps the granola crisp up. It also adds a mild richness to the flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic note that balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with oats and nuts.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Dried fruit (1/2 cup, chopped if large): Options include raisins, cranberries, or apricots. They add chewiness and natural sweetness once the granola cools.
- Seeds (1/4 cup): Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds boost nutrition and provide additional crunch.
Optional Add-ins for Variation:
- Unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for added fiber.
- Dark chocolate chips (added after cooling) for a sweeter twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make crunchy, golden homemade granola:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, chopped nuts, seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a smaller bowl, whisk the melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Coat the mixture: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to make sure every oat and nut is coated. This step is important for creating clumps and even flavor.
- Spread and bake: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly in a thin layer to promote even baking. Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning and encourage even browning.
- Cool completely: Remove the tray from the oven. Let the granola cool completely on the pan without stirring too much. As it cools, it will harden and develop a crunchy texture.
- Add dried fruit: Once the granola has cooled, mix in your choice of dried fruit. Adding it after baking prevents the fruit from becoming tough or burnt.
- Store properly: Transfer the finished granola to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or frozen for longer storage (up to 3 months).
Serving & Notes
- Serve with milk for a quick breakfast.
- Sprinkle over Greek yogurt with fresh berries.
- Use as a topping for smoothie bowls.
- Enjoy as a crunchy snack on its own.
- For larger clusters, press the granola down firmly on the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too much once it comes out of the oven.
- For a vegan version, use pure maple syrup instead of honey.
- Always add chocolate chips after baking and cooling to prevent melting.
- Try different nut and seed combinations for variety.
The Best Homemade Granola Recipe
Description
This homemade granola recipe is crunchy, lightly sweetened, and packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. It’s simple to prepare, naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, and perfect for breakfast or snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
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Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet. The granola will crisp up as it cools.
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Stir in dried fruit once cooled.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
