Easy & Healthy Homemade Granola: Your Go-To Recipe for a Deliciously Customizable Snack
Discover the ultimate recipe for easy homemade granola that combines sweet and salty flavors, takes minimal effort to prepare, and offers endless possibilities for customization. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a wholesome addition to your breakfast, a convenient energy booster, and a healthier alternative to store-bought options filled with unpronounceable ingredients. Get ready to ditch the preservatives and embrace the goodness of real food with this fantastic granola recipe. We’ll guide you through every step, share expert tips, and inspire you with creative ways to enjoy your delicious homemade creation.
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The core ingredients for this incredible homemade granola include rolled or old-fashioned oats, your choice of nuts like pecans, nutrient-dense chia seeds and flaxseeds, natural sweetener from honey, healthy fats from coconut oil, and a touch of vanilla extract for a comforting aroma. These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a snack that’s far superior to anything you’ll find in a package.
This post was updated December 2018
My Mom’s Beloved Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe
What’s not to love about the perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and salty in a homemade granola? It’s a delight that often gets overlooked in favor of store-bought versions. However, crafting your own granola at home is not only significantly healthier but also much more economical. I’m a firm believer in knowing exactly what goes into my food, which is why I prefer making my own. Say goodbye to unpronounceable ingredients and unnecessary preservatives—with this recipe, you’re in control of every wholesome component.
While I’d love to claim this masterpiece as my own, I must confess: it’s my amazing mom’s recipe! She generously shared this fantastic creation with me to pass on to all of you, and it has become a staple in our home. She’s always coming up with brilliant ideas, and her knack for simple, delicious food is truly inspiring. One of the greatest aspects of this granola recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel free to adapt it to your personal taste: toss in some dried cranberries or blueberries for a tart kick, sprinkle in dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence (after it cools, of course!), or experiment with a different assortment of your favorite nuts. Or, if you’re like me, simply enjoy it straight from the jar by the handful, perhaps during a Gilmore Girls marathon. No judgment here!
My mom prepares a batch of this healthy granola every single week, a testament to how easy and delicious it is. We even made it together during a recent Thanksgiving visit to Chicago. Unfortunately, the weather was quite gloomy, making it impossible to capture beautiful final pictures of this golden treat. So, I packed a bag to take home, only to be met with more uncooperative weather. Why am I sharing this detail? Because the delightful granola in that final picture is actually over two weeks old, and it still tasted absolutely divine! For the photoshoot, I topped it with chocolate chips, delicate coconut shavings, and vibrant pomegranate seeds for a pop of color, but remember, you can add any “fixings” your heart desires. Dive into the ideas for healthy add-ins further below!
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Granola
Creating this delicious homemade granola requires a few basic, high-quality ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the natural goodness of each component. By choosing wholesome ingredients, you ensure a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying snack every time.
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- Rolled Oats: The foundation of our granola. Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, provide a wonderful chewy texture and are packed with fiber, making this a heart-healthy choice.
- Nuts (Your Choice): Nuts add a delightful crunch, healthy fats, and protein. My mom loves pecans, but feel free to choose walnuts, almonds, cashews, or a mix!
- Chia Seeds: These tiny powerhouses are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. They help bind the granola and add a subtle nutty flavor. (We recommend these ones)
- Flaxseeds: Another fantastic source of omega-3s, fiber, and lignans. Ground flaxseeds blend seamlessly into the mixture, boosting its nutritional profile.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that also helps create those coveted granola clusters. Its rich flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Coconut Oil: Provides healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and contributes to the granola’s crisp texture. It also imparts a subtle tropical aroma. (This is our go-to coconut oil)
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors, adding a warm, inviting note to your homemade granola. Vanilla extract
With these wholesome ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a truly superior batch of healthy homemade granola.
Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Granola Every Time
Making granola is straightforward, but a few key tips can elevate your homemade batch from good to absolutely phenomenal. Follow these pointers to achieve that perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and health benefits, ensuring your granola is exactly how you like it.
- Choose Your Oil Wisely: Opt for a mild-tasting oil that won’t overpower the other flavors. Coconut oil is our usual choice, as it adds a subtle sweetness and promotes a fantastic crunch. Avocado oil is another excellent neutral-flavored option. While olive oil can work, be mindful that it might lend a stronger, more savory olive flavor to your granola, which some people enjoy, but it might not be for everyone.
- Nut-Free Options: If you or your family members have nut allergies, don’t worry! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Simply omit the nuts entirely or substitute them with other seeds like hemp hearts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. These alternatives still provide healthy fats and a satisfying texture.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: The true fun of homemade granola is the ability to personalize it. My mom adores pecans, but you could easily swap them for walnuts, cashews, or almonds. Beyond nuts, consider incorporating ingredients like dried fruits (added after baking to prevent burning), dark chocolate chips (also added after cooling for best results), or even different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for seasonal variations.
- Achieving Clusters: For those irresistible granola clusters, there are a couple of tricks. First, ensure you press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. Second, and crucially, resist the urge to stir the granola once it comes out of the oven. Let it cool completely, undisturbed, on the baking sheet. As it cools, the sugars will harden, creating those lovely clumps.
- Consider Gluten-Free Oats: If you or anyone enjoying the granola has celiac disease or a severe gluten sensitivity, it’s essential to use certified gluten-free oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often processed in facilities that also handle wheat, leading to cross-contamination.
- Flaxseed and Chia Seed Substitutions: If you don’t have flaxseed on hand, simply double the amount of chia seeds. Both provide similar nutritional benefits and help with the texture. Alternatively, you can omit one or both if necessary, though they do contribute to the overall health profile and bind of the granola.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Granola
One of the best things about having a fresh batch of homemade granola is its versatility. It’s not just a breakfast item; it can be a snack, a topping, or even part of a light meal. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this crunchy, wholesome delight:
- Classic Breakfast Cereal: Pour a generous serving into a bowl, add your favorite milk (dairy or plant-based), and enjoy it just like your favorite cereal. The milk softens it slightly while still maintaining that satisfying crunch.
- Yogurt Parfait Perfection: Layer your homemade granola with creamy yogurt (Greek, plain, or flavored) and fresh berries for a quick, protein-packed breakfast or a healthy dessert. It adds texture and natural sweetness.
- Ice Cream Topping: Elevate your dessert game by sprinkling granola over a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The contrast of cold, creamy ice cream and crunchy, sweet granola is simply divine.
- On-the-Go Snack: Grab a handful straight from the container for a quick energy boost. It’s perfect for hiking, road trips, or just curbing those mid-afternoon hunger pangs.
- Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: Spread peanut butter (or almond butter) on apple slices and then sprinkle liberally with granola. It’s a balanced snack that offers fiber, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
- Banana Boats: Similar to apples, slice a banana lengthwise, add a dollop of nut butter, and top with your homemade granola. A simple yet incredibly delicious and nutritious treat.
- Smoothie Bowl Boost: Add a sprinkle of granola to your morning smoothie bowl for extra texture, flavor, and a satisfying crunch that makes your smoothie feel more like a meal.
- Baked Goods Enhancement: Incorporate some granola into your muffin or cookie batter for added texture and a boost of flavor. It also makes a great crumble topping for fruit crisps!
How To Make This Homemade Granola Recipe – Step By Step
Making this healthy homemade granola is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and simple steps. In just about 35 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious, wholesome granola ready to enjoy. Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect outcome every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking as soon as your granola is ready to go in. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, any nuts you desire (like pecans, walnuts, or almonds), chia seeds, flaxseeds, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution. The salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors in the granola.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together all your wet ingredients: honey, melted coconut oil (or olive oil), and vanilla extract. Whisk them until they are well combined and form a smooth, uniform mixture. This ensures that the sweetness and fats are evenly distributed throughout the granola, leading to consistent flavor and crunch. Make sure your coconut oil is melted for easier mixing.
Step 3: Mix and Spread
Pour the wet ingredient mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Using a sturdy spoon or your hands (wearing gloves can be helpful), mix everything together until the oats, nuts, and seeds are thoroughly coated. Ensure there are no dry spots remaining. Once well-mixed, spread the granola evenly in a thin layer onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. For larger clusters, press the mixture down firmly onto the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Bake the granola in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes. Be sure to stir it halfway through the baking time to ensure even toasting and prevent burning, especially around the edges. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes, as granola can brown quickly. Once golden brown and fragrant, remove the baking sheet from the oven. The granola will still feel soft, but it will crisp up as it cools. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet, undisturbed, for at least an hour. This crucial step is what helps form those delicious clusters. Once fully cooled, transfer your crunchy homemade granola to an airtight container for storage.
Endless Possibilities: Healthy Granola Recipe Add-Ins
One of the true joys of making granola at home is the freedom to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Once your base granola is baked and cooled, the possibilities for delicious and healthy add-ins are virtually limitless. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire your next batch:
- Variety of Nuts and Seeds: Beyond the initial pecans, consider stirring in walnuts for omega-3s, cashews for a creamy texture, almonds for extra protein, or sunflower and hemp seeds for a diverse nutrient profile. For an unexpected twist, even peanuts can add a wonderful salty crunch. Remember to add these along with the other dry ingredients before baking if you want them toasted.
- Chocolate Chips: For a delightful treat, mix in your favorite chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white) once the granola has completely cooled. Adding them while the granola is still warm will cause them to melt, creating a messy but still delicious outcome.
- Shaved Coconut: Toasted or untoasted shaved coconut adds a wonderful texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Add it either before baking for a more integrated taste or after for a fresher, brighter coconut note.
- Dried Fruit: Dried fruits add natural sweetness and chewiness. It’s best to add these after the granola has baked and cooled to prevent them from becoming overly hard or burning in the oven. Think dried cranberries, blueberries, chopped apricots, peaches, or even a tangy dried pineapple for a unique twist.
- Spices: Elevate the flavor profile with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, or cardamom, especially for a fall-inspired granola. Add these with the dry ingredients.
- Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest can add a bright, fresh aroma and flavor to your granola. Add it with the wet ingredients for maximum infusion.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect granola blend!
Want More Homemade Granola Recipes? Check These Out!
If you’ve fallen in love with making your own granola, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of homemade granola variations to explore. From seasonal flavors to convenient bars, these recipes offer even more ways to enjoy this healthy and delicious snack. Expand your granola repertoire with these fantastic ideas:
- Pumpkin Spice Granola: Perfect for autumn, this recipe adds a cozy, warm twist to the classic granola with delightful pumpkin pie spices.
- Cinnamon Raisin Granola Bars: Turn your favorite granola flavors into a portable bar, ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks on the go.
- Chewy Chocolate Granola Bars: For those looking for a healthier, allergen-friendly option, this recipe offers a delicious, chewy, nut-free, paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free chocolate granola bar.
Each of these recipes brings a unique flavor and texture, proving that homemade granola can be as diverse and exciting as your imagination allows!
Why This is Your New Favorite Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe
This homemade granola recipe isn’t just easy; it’s designed to be genuinely healthy, using only a few real food ingredients. In a world saturated with processed snacks, taking control of what you eat starts with simple recipes like this. Yes, this recipe includes healthy fats from ingredients like coconut oil and nuts, and that’s a good thing! Don’t shy away from these beneficial fats; they are crucial for nutrient absorption, sustained energy, and making you feel satiated. Your body will absolutely thank you for choosing wholesome ingredients and embracing healthy fats. This granola offers a perfect balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you energized and satisfied throughout your day, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a nourishing and delicious snack or breakfast option.
Homemade Granola Recipe
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Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans or your favorite nut
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1 Tbsp flaxseed
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, nuts (if desired), chia seeds, flaxseeds, and salt.
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In a small bowl, whisk together honey, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Combine this wet mixture with the dry ingredients until everything is thoroughly coated.
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Spread the granola evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing down lightly for clusters.
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Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring gently halfway through to ensure even browning.
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Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet without disturbing it. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Granola
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying homemade granola, offering helpful insights for both beginners and seasoned granola makers.
What type of oats should you use to make homemade granola?
For the best texture and flavor in your homemade granola, you should definitely use rolled oats or old-fashioned oats. These oats are steamed and flattened, which allows them to absorb moisture and become chewy during baking while still holding their shape. Avoid using quick-cooking or instant oats, as these are highly processed and will result in a mushy or crumbly texture rather than the satisfying crunch you want in granola. Steel-cut oats are also not ideal for granola as they remain too firm even after baking.
How long does homemade granola last?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, homemade granola can last for up to a month. However, in our experience, it rarely lasts that long because it’s simply too delicious to resist! To maintain its freshness and crunch, make sure the container is truly airtight, and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you plan to add dried fruits or chocolate chips, it’s best to add them after the granola has completely cooled and is ready to be served or stored, as this helps preserve their texture and prevents them from burning during baking.
How do you make healthy granola?
Making healthy granola begins with selecting the right ingredients. This recipe prioritizes natural, wholesome components: whole rolled oats for fiber, healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and coconut oil, and natural sweetness from honey instead of refined sugars. By using real food ingredients, you create a nutrient-dense snack that fuels your body. While it’s packed with good-for-you ingredients, remember that moderation is key. Eating the entire pan in one sitting, no matter how healthy the ingredients, wouldn’t be ideal. Enjoy it as a balanced part of your diet, whether it’s a small bowl for breakfast, a topping for yogurt, or a satisfying snack, and you’ll reap all the health benefits it has to offer.
Can I make this homemade granola vegan?
Absolutely! To make this granola vegan, simply substitute the honey with a plant-based liquid sweetener. Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent choices that provide similar binding properties and natural sweetness. Ensure your other ingredients, especially if adding chocolate chips, are also certified vegan. This simple swap makes the recipe accessible for everyone.
What if I want extra-large granola clusters?
To achieve those coveted, extra-large granola clusters, there are a couple of tricks. First, once you’ve spread the granola mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, use the back of a spatula or another baking sheet to press it down very firmly. You want it to be a compact, solid layer. Second, and most important, once the granola is baked, do NOT stir it when it comes out of the oven. Let it cool completely, undisturbed, on the baking sheet. As it cools, the sugars and fats will solidify, creating large, crunchy clusters that you can then break apart into your desired size.
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to crafting your very own delicious, customizable, and healthy homemade granola. We adore this recipe and are confident your family will too. It’s a simple pleasure that brings wholesome goodness to your kitchen.
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Have you ever made granola before? If so, what are your favorite add-ins or special twists? Share your thoughts in the comments below!