Are you looking for a delicious and healthy breakfast option that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This gingerbread granola recipe is perfect for busy mornings and offers a festive twist on a classic breakfast staple. Packed with warming spices and crunchy texture, this homemade granola is sure to become a family favorite. It's the perfect blend of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend brunches. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (or a mix!)
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and even baking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, pecans, coconut, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
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Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated. Don't overmix; a few dry spots are okay.
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Spread & Bake: Spread the granola mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, break it into smaller clusters and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Gingerbread Granola:
- Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet granola, reduce the amount to ¼ cup.
- Spice it Up: For a more intense gingerbread flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of molasses.
- Make it Ahead: This granola is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Delicious Variations:
- Chocolate Gingerbread Granola: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the granola mixture before baking for a decadent treat.
- Cranberry Gingerbread Granola: Stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries along with the wet ingredients for a burst of tartness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving of this gingerbread granola provides a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, making it a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or snack option. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient brands.
This easy gingerbread granola recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a wonderful addition to your healthy meals repertoire and an excellent choice for those quick dinner ideas you need on a busy weeknight. Enjoy!