Easy Homemade Granola Recipe

I absolutely love this granola recipe because it’s the perfect blend of crunchy, nutty goodness and just the right amount of sweetness from the honey or maple syrup. Plus, it’s so versatile and easy to personalize with my favorite mix-ins like dried cranberries and shredded coconut, making each batch a delicious adventure!

Waking up to the aroma of homemade granola in my kitchen is one of my favorite things. My easy recipe blends flavor with nutrition and results in the most delightful chewy yet crunchy granola.

There are so many good things combined in it. It has 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped nuts (I use almonds), 1 cup of dried fruit (I use cranberries), and stupid amounts of cinnamon and honey.

The cinnamon and honey are my two favorite things about it.

Ingredients

Traditional Rolled Oats: A fiber-rich grain that benefits digestion and offers a slow, steady supply of energy—ideal for any meal.

Nuts that are chopped: As a member of the diet that is supportive of heart health, they contain healthy fats and proteins.

Fruit that has been dried: Sweetness that comes from nature, and a source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Honey/Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener, provides trace antioxidants, benefits in minerals.

Cinnamon: Contributes warmth; assists in the regulation of blood sugar.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
• 1 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
• Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

1. The oven must be preheated to 300°F (150°C), and a large baking sheet must be lined with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, place the rolled oats, nuts, and seeds (if using).

3. In another bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup, vegetable oil or melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth.

4. Make certain that all the dry ingredients are evenly coated and mixed in by pouring the mixture that is wet over the mixture that is dry and stirring it well.

5. Evenly layer the granola mixture on the baking sheet you prepared beforehand.

6. Place in the preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes, then ensure even cooking by stirring the granola.

7. Baking should continue for another 10-15 minutes or so, until the granola turns to a golden brown and gives off a pleasing aroma.

8. Take out of the oven and let it chill entirely on the baking tray.

9. After it has cooled, incorporate the dried fruit, shredded coconut (if using), and any other extra blend-ins you wish to add.

10. Nothing beats the homemade stuff, and this recipe is one of our all-time favorites. The combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit gives the granola a wonderful taste; it is sweet but not too sweet, crunchy but not tooth-shatteringly so. Best of all, the recipe is infinitely adaptable.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Medium mixing bowl
6. Whisk
7. Measuring cups
8. Measuring spoons
9. Spatula or wooden spoon

FAQ

• Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?Yes, but the texture will be a little different because rolled oats are what provide that chewy granola texture.
• How can I make this granola gluten-free?To guarantee that the recipe is gluten-free, use oats that are certified gluten-free.
• What is the best way to store homemade granola?Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or store in the freezer for longer preservation.
• Can I add chocolate chips?Absolutely, but first allow the granola to cool all the way. If you add them while the granola is still warm, you’ll just end up with melted chocolate.
• How can I make this recipe nut-free?Nuts can be substituted with extra seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• What can I use instead of honey or maple syrup?A good substitute is agave syrup, or you might use brown rice syrup for a different flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use quick oats for a different texture instead of outdated rolled oats.
Chopped nuts can be replaced with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pepitas for a nut-free alternative.
Replace honey or maple syrup with agave syrup or brown rice syrup as a liquid sweetener.
Substitute olive oil for vegetable oil to achieve a different flavor profile.
In the absence of ground cinnamon, ground ginger or nutmeg can be used to create a spiced variation.

Pro Tips

– Toast the nuts before mixing them with the other ingredients to enhance their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheating oven for about 5-7 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

– If you prefer chunkier granola, press down the mixture firmly with a spatula before baking and refrain from stirring too much during baking. This will help the granola clump together as it bakes.

– For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon in the wet mixture.

– If you’re using coconut oil, try using unrefined extra virgin coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients.

– Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch, and use it within 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture. You can also freeze it for longer shelf life.