Homemade granola is a game-changer, offering a perfect blend of crunchy, chewy, and sweet textures in every bite.
With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a versatile treat that’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
The warm aroma of toasted oats, honey, and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste straight from the pan.
Packed with wholesome ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, this granola is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Its golden clusters are perfect for topping yogurt, sprinkling over smoothie bowls, or enjoying by the handful. Customize it with your favorite flavors, and you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
What You’ll Need for Homemade Granola?
- 2 cups whole rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, almonds, or a mix of both (use your favorite nuts!)
- ½ cup coconut flakes (optional, for added texture)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or substitute with olive oil)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey for a different sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter (or peanut butter for a nutty twist)
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries (optional, for a pop of color and sweetness)
How to Make Homemade Granola
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the oats, nuts, coconut flakes (if using), cinnamon, and salt.
- Drizzle in the melted coconut oil and maple syrup, then add the almond butter. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press it into a 1-inch-thick oval. (This helps create clumps!)
- Bake for 15 minutes, then rotate the pan halfway through. Use a fork to gently break the granola apart slightly.
- Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
- If using, sprinkle dried cranberries over the warm granola.
- Let cool for 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a snack or with yogurt!
Creative Toppings and Pairings
Take your granola to the next level with fun toppings and pairings! Sprinkle fresh fruit like sliced bananas, berries, or diced apples for a refreshing twist. For a creamy combo, serve it with yogurt or a splash of milk. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle a bit of extra maple syrup or honey for added sweetness. Pro tip: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat!
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Tip: Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as it can absorb moisture and lose its crunch.
Easy Recipe Variations
Customize your granola to suit your taste! Swap walnuts for pecans or pistachios, or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Replace dried cranberries with raisins, apricots, or chopped dates. For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom instead of cinnamon. Experiment and make it your own!
Time-Saving Hacks
Save time by prepping ingredients in advance! Measure out your oats, nuts, and spices the night before. You can also double the recipe and bake two batches at once—just rotate the pans halfway through. Bonus: Store extra granola in portioned containers for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Homemade Granola
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, or almonds, or a mix of both
- ½ cup coconut flakes optional
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the oats, walnuts, coconut flakes, if using, cinnamon, and salt. Drizzle in the coconut oil and maple syrup and add the almond butter. Stir until combined.
- Scoop the granola onto the baking sheet and press the mixture into a 1-inch-thick oval. This will encourage clumping.
- Bake for 15 minutes, rotate the pan halfway, and use a fork to gently break the granola apart just a bit.
- Bake for 15 minutes more, or until golden brown. Sprinkle with dried cranberries, if desired. Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.