Healthy Granola Recipe

Healthy Granola Recipe

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Let me tell you about my love for a good breakfast; it all began with my quest for the perfect start to the day. That’s where my Healthy Granola Recipe comes in. There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked granola, mingling with the aroma of coffee brewing in the kitchen. I vividly remember the first time I made this recipe; the sun was just rising, casting a warm glow through my window, and I could hardly wait to dig in. Each crunchy bite filled with nuts, seeds, and a hint of sweetness is not just a breakfast; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I often find myself experimenting with different ingredients, and every batch brings new flavors to explore.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
200 kcal
Protein:
4 g
Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Fat:
9 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

What Makes This Healthy Granola Recipe Special

It’s Nutritious and Filling

The Healthy Granola Recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that fuel your body. With the combination of old-fashioned rolled oats, nuts, and seeds, this granola provides a satiating meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its convenience. It’s easy to make a big batch and portion it out for the week. Just store it in an airtight container, and you have breakfast ready to go!

Versatile Usage

This granola isn’t just great for breakfast; it can be a delightful topping for yogurt or a crunchy snack throughout the day. I often sprinkle some over my smoothie bowls, and it adds such a delightful texture.

Customizable to Your Taste

What’s more exciting than experimenting with flavors? The Healthy Granola Recipe allows you to incorporate your favorite ingredients, whether that’s swapping maple syrup for honey or adding your choice of dried fruits. Make it your own!

A Family Favorite

My family loves this granola, and it’s a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They enjoy mixing the ingredients and watching the transformation as it bakes. Plus, they love picking their favorite add-ins.

Great for Gifting

It’s also a lovely idea for homemade gifts. Just package it nicely in a jar, and you have a thoughtful present that’s both delicious and healthy.

Everything You Need for Healthy Granola Recipe

Healthy Granola Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial, and with this Healthy Granola Recipe, each component plays a vital role. The combination of sweet, nutty, and crunchy elements creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is hard to resist.

  • 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats – The base of our granola, these oats are the heart of the recipe, providing bulk and a chewy texture.
  • ½ cup of roughly chopped almonds – These add crunch and healthy fats, making your granola more satisfying.
  • ½ cup of roughly chopped pecans – Pecans bring a rich flavor and help enhance the granola’s texture.
  • ½ cup of pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds – A nutritious addition that contributes protein and healthy fats.
  • ½ cup of unsweetened coconut chips – They provide a subtle sweetness and a tropical twist.
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • ½ teaspoon of kosher salt – Balances the sweetness of the granola.
  • ½ cup of maple syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind everything together.
  • ½ cup of melted coconut oil – Provides moisture and a hint of coconut flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract – Adds depth and richness to the flavor.
  • 1 large egg white – Assists in creating clumps in the granola.
  • 1 cup of dried cranberries – For a pop of sweetness and chewy texture.

How to Assemble Healthy Granola Recipe

Healthy Granola Recipe

Making this Healthy Granola Recipe is a simple and rewarding process. Just follow these easy steps to achieve that perfect crunch and flavor.

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (about 160°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the granola from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, roughly chopped almonds, roughly chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, unsweetened coconut chips, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir these ingredients together until they’re well mixed; this will ensure that each bite is well flavored.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup and melted coconut oil together with the vanilla extract. This mixture will act as the glue that holds your granola together, so it’s important that it’s well combined.
  4. Drizzle the syrup mixture over the oat mixture and stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are well coated. You want to see a shiny, even coverage on the oats and nuts.
  5. In another small bowl, whisk the egg white until it gets frothy. Gently stir this into the granola mixture. This step is crucial for creating those delightful clumps in the finished product.
  6. Spread the granola evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down gently to create a compact layer. This will help your granola stick together and result in larger clusters.
  7. Bake the granola on the middle rack of your oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want it to turn a beautiful golden brown, so stir it halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
  8. When you take the granola out, it may seem a bit soft, but it will firm up as it cools, creating that satisfying crunch we all love. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring.
  9. Once cooled, sprinkle the dried cranberries over the top of the granola. When you’re ready, crumble the cooled granola into big chunks and transfer it to an airtight container. This granola can be stored for up to 3 weeks, if it lasts that long!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Coating Tips: Ensure all dry ingredients are thoroughly coated with the syrup mixture for the best flavor.
  • Cooling Time: Letting the granola cool fully on the baking sheet will help in forming clumps.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.
  • Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preferences.
  • Ingredient Variations: Experiment with different nuts and seeds for unique flavors.

Variations to Try

Healthy Granola Recipe

This Healthy Granola Recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to put your spin on it! Here are some ideas to inspire your next batch.

  • Mix in Chocolate: For a sweet treat, add some dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking.
  • Switch Up the Nuts: Experiment with different types of nuts like cashews or walnuts for varied flavors.
  • Fruit Additions: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs for added sweetness and texture.
  • Spice Variations: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a different spice profile.
  • Make it Vegan: Simply omit the egg white for a completely plant-based granola.
  • For Chunkier Granola: Firmly pack the granola into the baking sheet before baking for larger clusters.
  • Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of almond or coconut extract for a unique twist.

How to Enjoy Healthy Granola Recipe

This Healthy Granola Recipe can be enjoyed in numerous delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Breakfast Bowl: Serve it in a bowl with your choice of milk or yogurt, topped with fresh fruits.
  • Snack Time: Enjoy it as a crunchy snack during the day or pack it as a portable lunch option.
  • In Smoothies: Blend it into your smoothies for added texture and flavor.
  • Baking Addition: Use it as a topping for baked goods like muffins or fruit crisps.
  • Seasonal Treat: Perfect for holiday brunches or as a healthy snack during festive gatherings.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. You can also freeze for longer shelf life!

FAQ

The Healthy Granola Recipe is made with whole ingredients such as old-fashioned rolled oats, nuts, and seeds. These provide essential nutrients, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a satisfying choice. Unlike store-bought options, this granola is free from preservatives and added sugars, allowing you to control the sweetness and quality of your food.

Absolutely! One of the best things about the Healthy Granola Recipe is its versatility. You can swap out the nuts and seeds for your favorites, add different spices, or even mix in your preferred dried fruits. The sky’s the limit on what you can create, so feel free to make it your own!

To keep your Healthy Granola Recipe fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will maintain its crunch for about three weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature.

Yes, this Healthy Granola Recipe can easily be made vegan! Simply omit the egg white. The granola will still hold together nicely and taste fantastic. You can also use honey instead of maple syrup for a non-vegan version.

Conclusion

The Healthy Granola Recipe stands out for its delicious flavor and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. I encourage you to try making your own batch; you won’t be disappointed! The joy of enjoying homemade granola is something that just can’t be beaten. Give it a go, and watch your family fall in love with this nutritious treat.

Healthy Granola Recipe

Healthy Granola Recipe

The perfect way to start your day! This Healthy Granola Recipe is loaded with delicious nuts, oats, and a hint of sweetness. Enjoy it as a topping for yogurt or as a snack. It's wholesome, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ½ cup roughly chopped almonds
  • ½ cup roughly chopped pecans
  • ½ cup pumpkin seeds
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut chips
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup melted coconut oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 cup dried cranberries

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (about 160°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the granola from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, roughly chopped almonds, roughly chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, unsweetened coconut chips, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir these ingredients together until they're well mixed; this will ensure that each bite is well flavored.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup and melted coconut oil together with the vanilla extract. This mixture will act as the glue that holds your granola together, so it’s important that it’s well combined.
  4. Drizzle the syrup mixture over the oat mixture and stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are well coated. You want to see a shiny, even coverage on the oats and nuts.
  5. In another small bowl, whisk the egg white until it gets frothy. Gently stir this into the granola mixture. This step is crucial for creating those delightful clumps in the finished product.
  6. Spread the granola evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down gently to create a compact layer. This will help your granola stick together and result in larger clusters.
  7. Bake the granola on the middle rack of your oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want it to turn a beautiful golden brown, so stir it halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
  8. When you take the granola out, it may seem a bit soft, but it will firm up as it cools, creating that satisfying crunch we all love. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring.
  9. Once cooled, sprinkle the dried cranberries over the top of the granola. When you're ready, crumble the cooled granola into big chunks and transfer it to an airtight container. This granola can be stored for up to 3 weeks, if it lasts that long!

Notes

Tip 1: To make chunky granola, before baking, firmly pat the granola into the baking sheet with a spatula and again after stirring halfway through baking. Allow the granola to cool completely before breaking into clumps.
Tip 2: Use honey instead of maple syrup if preferred. For a sweeter granola, mix in 2 tablespoons brown sugar to the maple syrup and coconut oil before adding to the oat mixture.
Tip 3: For looser granola, omit the egg white and stir the granola halfway through cooking time.
Tip 4: To make this vegan, omit the egg white.

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