If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet satisfying breakfast or snack that feels cozy and wholesome, this Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Packed with crunchy oats, toasted nuts, and just the right touch of natural sweetness, this granola offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that make every bite a delight. It’s not only delicious but also nourishing, giving you that perfect energy boost with ingredients you can trust and control at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in shaping the texture and flavor. From the rolled oats that provide heartiness and crunch, to the golden drizzle of honey or maple syrup that brings gentle sweetness, every item is essential to crafting granola that tastes far better than anything store-bought.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation of the granola, oats add chewiness and a wholesome base.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans): These add satisfying crunch and healthy fats for richness.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds a subtle tropical flavor and chewy texture.
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that bind the granola and give it a lovely golden glaze.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Provides moisture and helps with that perfectly toasted finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a comforting spice note that pairs beautifully with the nuts and oats.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or your choice): Bringing bursts of chewy sweetness that complete the mix.
How to Make Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 325°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step creates the perfect non-stick surface so your granola doesn’t cling and burns are avoided. Prepping your pan early lets you dive straight into mixing without downtime.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a roomy bowl, toss together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut. These dry ingredients provide the bulk of the granola’s texture, from crunchy to chewy, so getting an even mix here ensures every bite has a delicious crunch.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these together until smooth. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse, evenly coating the oats with sweetness and spice, while the oil helps with that golden-brown bake.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring thoroughly so every oat cluster gets generously coated. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of crunchy clusters and sweet, toasty flavors throughout your granola.
Step 5: Bake and Stir
Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure it’s in a thin, flat layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even toasting and prevent burning. You’ll know it’s done when the granola turns golden and fills the kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma.
Step 6: Cool and Add Fruit
Once out of the oven, allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. This cooling step helps clusters form naturally, giving you that satisfying crunch. When cool, stir in the dried fruit for chewy bursts of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the toasted oats and nuts.
How to Serve Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe
Garnishes
Top your granola with a handful of fresh berries, a drizzle of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of chia seeds for an added texture and boost of nutrition. These fresh elements can brighten up each serving and add layers of flavor and color.
Side Dishes
Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe pairs wonderfully with a fruity smoothie bowl, a simple banana sliced over yogurt, or even as a crunchy topping on your morning oatmeal. It’s such a versatile treat that can complement many light and fresh dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For guests or a special breakfast, layer your granola in glass jars with alternating layers of yogurt and fresh fruit to make parfaits. Or serve it in small bowls alongside nut butter and apple slices for a fun, hands-on snack experience everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed ensures it stays crisp and fresh without any signs of staleness.
Freezing
If you want to keep your granola longer, freeze it in a zip-top bag or airtight container. When sealed tightly, it can last up to three months. Just bring it to room temperature before eating for the best texture.
Reheating
While granola is fantastic eaten cold or at room temperature, you can lightly warm it in a skillet or oven for a few minutes to refresh its crunch and release those toasty aromas again. Just be sure to watch it so it does not burn.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this granola?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap almonds or pecans for walnuts, cashews, or even sunflower seeds to tailor the crunch and flavor to your liking.
Is maple syrup a good substitute for honey?
Yes, maple syrup offers a delicious, plant-based alternative that complements the spices and nuts perfectly, maintaining the granola’s sweetness and helping with crispiness.
Can I make this granola gluten-free?
Of course! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats, as regular oats can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains.
How do I make my granola cluster more?
To encourage larger clusters, avoid stirring the granola too much during baking and allow it to cool undisturbed so the ingredients can naturally stick together.
Is this granola suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! Using maple syrup instead of honey keeps this Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making this Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe is such a rewarding and straightforward way to elevate your mornings or snacks. Once you taste that perfect golden crunch mixed with sweet dried fruit and warm spices, you’ll understand why it’s a pantry favorite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it weekly!
Print
Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Homemade Granola recipe is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option made with rolled oats, nuts, shredded coconut, and naturally sweetened with honey or pure maple syrup. Baked to a golden brown and combined with dried fruit, this granola is crunchy, flavorful, and easy to customize for extra protein or seeds.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Finishing
- 3/4 cup dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly for even distribution of flavors.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the honey or maple syrup with melted coconut oil and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well until all components are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
- Spread on Baking Sheet and Bake: Spread the coated mixture into an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through the baking time to ensure even toasting and prevent burning.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruit: Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring, allowing clusters to form naturally. Once cooled, gently stir in the dried fruit.
- Store Properly: Transfer the granola to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- For extra protein and texture, add seeds such as chia seeds or pumpkin seeds to the dry ingredients before baking.
- This granola keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container.
- Feel free to swap the honey for maple syrup to make this recipe vegan.
- To achieve chunkier clusters, press the granola firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring until fully cooled.
