Are you craving a wholesome, crunchy, and utterly delicious breakfast or snack? Look no further! This homemade oat honey granola recipe is incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with nutritious goodness. Forget those store-bought versions loaded with added sugars and questionable ingredients – this recipe lets you control exactly what goes into your granola, ensuring a healthy and satisfying treat you can feel good about. It's perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or a quick and healthy snack on the go. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup mixed nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds – your favorites!)
- ½ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: ½ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots) – add in the last 10 minutes
Instructions:
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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!
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, mixed nuts and seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, olive oil, and honey (or maple syrup).
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Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is thoroughly coated. Make sure all the oats are nicely moistened.
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Spread & Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Try to create a single layer for even baking.
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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 to prevent burning. If adding dried fruit, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of baking.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters. This helps it crisp up further. Once cooled, store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Cooking Tips for the Best Granola:
- Use a variety of nuts and seeds: Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: A single layer ensures even baking and crispy granola.
- Watch it carefully: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your granola to prevent burning.
- Cool completely before storing: This prevents the granola from becoming soggy.
Variations:
- Spiced Granola: Add a pinch of ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a warm and inviting flavor.
- Chocolate Granola: Stir in some chopped dark chocolate chips during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Fruity Granola: Experiment with different dried fruits like blueberries, cherries, or mango.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving of this homemade granola provides a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein.
This oat honey granola recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal plan. It's easy to customize to your taste preferences, making it a perfect choice for both quick dinner ideas and satisfying snacks. Enjoy the crunchy texture and delicious flavor of this homemade treat!