Are you looking for a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack that's easy to make at home? Look no further! This homemade honey almond granola recipe is the perfect solution. It's packed with crunchy almonds, sweet honey, and wholesome oats, making it a fantastic way to start your day or fuel your afternoon. Forget those expensive store-bought brands – this recipe is simple, customizable, and unbelievably satisfying. Let's get started on this journey to delicious, homemade granola!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for even baking and effortless removal of your golden granola.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, and pumpkin seeds. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
-
Make the Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This creates the flavorful base that will bind your granola together.
-
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated. Make sure everything is well combined; this will ensure consistent flavor and texture throughout your batch.
-
Spread & Bake: Spread the granola mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will prevent uneven baking and ensure nice, crispy granola.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep a close eye on it – ovens vary, so the baking time might need slight adjustments. You’re looking for a golden brown color and a wonderfully crunchy texture.
-
Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows it to crisp up further. Once cool, break it into clusters and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Honey Almond Granola:
- Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins), or even chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet granola, reduce the amount of honey and maple syrup. Conversely, for a sweeter treat, add a tablespoon or two more.
- Watch for burning: Keep a close eye on your granola while it's baking, as it can burn quickly. Adjust the baking time depending on your oven's temperature and the desired level of crispiness.
Variations:
- Chocolate Honey Almond Granola: Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips to the mix before baking for a delicious chocolatey twist.
- Spiced Granola: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, ginger, or allspice for a warm and inviting flavor profile.
- Fruity Granola: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or other dried fruits for a burst of fruity sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used, but a typical serving of this honey almond granola provides approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This easy honey almond granola recipe is a perfect example of healthy and delicious homemade cooking. Enjoy this delightful treat as a breakfast cereal, a snack, or even a topping for your yogurt! It’s a versatile and satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.