Are you craving a delicious and nutritious granola that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This homemade Purely Elizabeth-inspired granola recipe delivers a delightful crunch and wholesome goodness, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a topping for your favorite yogurt. Forget store-bought options packed with added sugars and questionable ingredients – this recipe lets you control the quality and taste, creating a truly healthy and delicious treat. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a quick and healthy dinner option. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, resulting in one of the best recipes you'll ever try.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup mixed nuts and seeds (almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds – get creative!)
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: ½ cup dried fruit (cranberries, blueberries, chopped apricots) – add at the end
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, nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Wet Ingredients Magic: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
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The Perfect Blend: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly 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 relatively even layer for consistent baking.
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Golden Brown Goodness: 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.
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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 clusters. If adding dried fruit, gently fold it in after the granola has cooled.
Tips for Granola Perfection:
- Nutty Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts and seeds to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to your liking.
- Storage: Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, varies with ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This recipe is a great source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it a perfect addition to a healthy diet. It's incredibly versatile; enjoy it straight from the jar, with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for your favorite smoothie bowls. This simple yet delicious recipe provides a quick and healthy breakfast or snack option. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's one of the best recipes for homemade granola, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!