Are you craving a crunchy, wholesome breakfast or a satisfying snack that's both delicious and good for you? Look no further! This recipe for homemade gluten-free granola is the perfect solution. Forget those store-bought brands packed with added sugars and questionable ingredients. This easy recipe lets you control the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring a healthy and utterly delicious treat you can feel good about. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or even as a delightful addition to your yogurt parfait. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade granola!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe is designed to be adaptable to your tastes and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits!
- 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats (certified gluten-free is recommended)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey, agave)
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: ½ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots) – add towards the end
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Granola Magic
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of delicious, homemade gluten-free granola. This recipe is a quick dinner idea for those short on time, or a great addition to a healthy meal plan.
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, mixed nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, and cinnamon. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Wet Ingredient Magic: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Mix it Up: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated. Make sure all the oats are nicely moistened.
- Spread & Bake: Spread the granola mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures even baking and prevents burning.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens can vary.
- Cool & Add-ins: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, gently stir in your optional dried fruits, if using. This prevents them from burning during baking.
- Store & Enjoy: Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Granola Success: Pro Tips for Perfect Granola
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your preference. You can start with less and add more if needed.
- Nutty Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts and seeds. Chia seeds, flax seeds, or even chopped macadamia nuts would be delicious additions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chocolate Cravings? Add in some dark chocolate chips after baking for an indulgent twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approximate, varies with additions):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Always check individual ingredient labels for accurate nutritional information.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
Variations: Endless Possibilities
- Fruity Granola: Add dried cranberries, blueberries, cherries, or chopped apples.
- Spicy Granola: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger.
- Chocolate Granola: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
- Coconut Granola: Increase the amount of shredded coconut for a more intense coconut flavor.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade gluten-free granola! It’s the perfect addition to your healthy meal plan, offering a delicious and easy food recipe for the entire family to enjoy. This simple recipe helps elevate your homemade cooking skills, making it a perfect addition to your best recipes collection.