This Healthy Granola is a crunchy mix of oats, nuts, and seeds, sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup. It’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack!
Honestly, I just love sprinkling it over yogurt or eating it straight from the jar! It’s a tasty way to start the day or fuel up between meals. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats provide the perfect base for granola. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to get certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can also be used, but they won’t give you the same texture.
Nuts: I love using a mix of almonds and walnuts for a good crunch, but any nuts you have will work. If you have nut allergies, try using seeds like sunflower or hemp seeds instead!
Coconut Flakes: These add a nice sweet flavor. Unsweetened is best, but sweetened flakes can work too if you don’t mind extra sugar. You can skip the coconut if it’s not your thing or replace it with more nuts.
Sweeteners: Honey gives a nice touch, but maple syrup is an excellent vegan alternative. Agave syrup can also work if you’re looking for a milder taste.
Oils: I use coconut oil for its subtle flavor and health benefits. If you prefer a different oil, olive oil is a good choice, too!
How Can I Make Sure My Granola Stays Crunchy?
To get that perfect crunchy texture, follow these simple tips:
- Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet for even baking.
- Stir halfway through baking, which helps each piece get golden brown.
- Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. The granola will continue to crisp up as it cools.
Remember, granola hardens as it cools, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Healthy Granola
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Mix:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raw nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans), roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes or chips
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or olive oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Extras:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Granola recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, plus cooling time. So, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the granola from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, sunflower or pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together so it’s well combined.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well mixed and smooth.
4. Combine and Coat:
Pour the wet mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the dry ingredients are coated evenly—I like to use my hands for this part!
5. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Transfer the granola mixture onto your lined baking sheet. Spread it out into an even layer. This helps it bake evenly.
6. Bake the Granola:
Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Make sure to stir it halfway through baking to promote even toasting. Keep an eye on it towards the end, so it doesn’t burn.
7. Cool it Down:
Once it’s golden brown, take it out and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It’ll become crunchier as it cools.
8. Add Dried Fruits:
Once cooled, gently stir in the dried cranberries (or raisins) for a bit of sweetness and chewiness.
9. Store and Enjoy:
Transfer your healthy granola to an airtight container and store it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks! Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or just as a snack on its own!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade granola! It’s a fantastic way to eat wholesome ingredients while satisfying your taste buds!
Can I Substitute the Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any nuts you prefer or have on hand. If you’re nut-free, try replacing them with extra seeds or even puffed rice for a different texture.
How Can I Reduce the Sugar Content?
If you want to lower the sugar, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup to 1/4 cup and add a mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce for sweetness without the extra sugar. Just keep in mind this might change the texture slightly!
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Dried Fruit?
While fresh fruit is delicious, it’s best to avoid it in this granola as it can add moisture and affect the crunchiness. Stick to dried fruits, or you can top your granola with fresh fruit when serving it!
How Long Will This Granola Last?
This granola will stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a month!
