Are you looking for a delicious and healthy breakfast that's also easy to make? Look no further! This homemade almond butter granola recipe is the perfect way to start your day. Packed with crunchy clusters of oats, almonds, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, this granola is both satisfying and nutritious. It's the perfect topping for yogurt, a base for your favorite smoothie bowl, or simply enjoyed by the handful as a snack. This recipe is a simple addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, making homemade cooking a breeze.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- ½ cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the granola.
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Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. The coconut oil should be completely melted for easy mixing.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until the oats are evenly coated. Make sure every oat is well-coated with the almond butter mixture for optimal texture and flavor.
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Spread and Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Baking in a single layer ensures even browning and prevents clumping.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
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Cool and Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters. Cooling completely helps the granola crisp up further and makes it easier to store.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crunch: Add ½ cup of pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to the mix. Experiment with different nuts and seeds to find your perfect granola combination.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet granola, reduce the amount of maple syrup. You can also substitute honey or agave nectar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, comforting flavor. Experiment with different spices to create your unique granola blend.
- Make it chocolatey: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips during the last 5 minutes of baking. Be careful not to overbake as the chocolate can melt quickly.
- Storage: Store your homemade almond butter granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This almond butter granola recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can easily prepare at home. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful treat as a part of your everyday healthy meals or as a delightful snack. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes for a simple, yet satisfying start to your day or a delightful pick-me-up anytime.