Easy Homemade Granola Recipe That’s Healthy and Delicious

Easy homemade granola recipe that’s healthy and delicious. It’s super easy to make and takes less than 45 minutes. Why buy granola when you can make it better and maybe even healthier? Or at least you know exactly what’s in your granola if you are making it in your kitchen. 

There are so many kinds of granola, and you can keep your pantry stocked so that when you feel like it, you can make granola with whatever you have on hand. You’ll have a delicious breakfast or snack, and you’re house will smell yummy!

Why I like healthy homemade granola

Healthy granola is the ultimate go-to snack and breakfast option that never fails to check all the boxes. Not only does it have a nice little crunch and irresistible flavor, but Crafting my own batch of granola means I can control the sweetness, opt for natural and nutritious ingredients, and avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives commonly found in store-bought versions. 

With a variety of wholesome nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dried fruits, this homemade granola is full of nutritional value. It also provides a balanced blend of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – whether sprinkled over yogurt, served with milk, fresh fruit, or simply enjoyed by the handful.

Is it healthier than store-bought granola?

Making a healthy granola recipe over store-bought options brings some real health benefits. One of the most significant advantages is in having full control over the ingredients. When making granola at home, you can skip the excessive sugars, unhealthy oils, and artificial additives that are commonly found in many store-bought varieties. Instead, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and opt for heart-healthy oils like coconut or olive oil. 

Additionally, homemade granola allows you to customize the mix with wholesome ingredients such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dried fruits. Each of these contributes essential nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

The ingredients

• Old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if you want them)
• Almonds (chopped)
• Unsweetened coconut
• Egg white
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (spices make everything better)
• Maple syrup (you can substitute honey if you prefer)
• Olive oil or coconut oil (I prefer olive oil)

The supplies you need for this recipe

• Measuring cups
• Measure spoons
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper

What should I keep in my pantry for when I want to make granola?

• Oats
• Nuts (almonds, pecans, pistachios)
• Coconut (I prefer shredded)
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Olive oil
• Maple syrup
• Honey
• Vanilla extract
• Pumpkin puree
• Chocolate chips
• Almond butter or peanut butter

How to make granola

• Line your rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper
• In a large bowl, mix and stir together all the dry ingredients
• Add the wet ingredients (Nut butter, olive oil, vanilla, and maple syrup and toss together, adding a little more olive oil as needed)
• Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet. if you like clumps of granola (and who doesn’t), spread out close together and not too thin, or it will burn
• Bake for 12 minutes, then take out and toss and return the pan to the oven, this time with the back of the pan in front, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, checking often
• Remove from oven, place on the counter, and let it cool

Ideas for toppings

• Any kind of dried fruit (raisins, cherries, apricots)
• Fresh fruit (I love the combination of blueberries and strawberries)
• Additional nuts (cashews, almonds, walnuts
• Chocolate chips

How to store homemade granola

Storing homemade granola properly is critical to maintaining its freshness over time. Once your granola has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from getting in. It’s best to store the granola in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as exposure to light and heat can lead to quicker degradation.

When stored correctly, homemade granola can remain fresh for up to 2 weeks. However, its shelf life may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For example, if your granola contains perishable items like fresh fruits, it may not last as long and should be consumed within a week.

To extend the freshness of your granola even further, consider keeping it in the refrigerator or freezer. When stored in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer bag, homemade granola can stay fresh for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply take out the desired portion and let it come to room temperature, or enjoy it straight from the freezer as a crunchy treat. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade granola for an extended period and continue to enjoy it. My granola is gone long before freezing would be needed!

A few of my favorite food storage jars

I have several of these kinds of jars that are great for storage but also perfect for gift-giving. Whenever I make a batch of granola, I almost always take at least one jar to a friend.

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If you liked reading: Easy Homemade Granola Recipe That’s Healthy and Delicious, you may also like this recipe for Lavender Granola.

Some of my favorite jars are from Walmart! Read more in this post.

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