Homemade Granola Recipe: A Healthy And Delicious Breakfast Option

Dwy hesti

March 31, 2023

Introduction

Granola is a great breakfast option for those who are looking for a healthy and delicious start to their day. It is made up of a combination of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, giving you a good dose of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. However, store-bought granola can be high in sugar and often contains additives and preservatives. That's why making your own homemade granola is a great option. Not only is it healthier, but it also allows you to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

To make homemade granola, you will need: - 3 cups of rolled oats - 1 cup of chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans) - 1/2 cup of seeds (such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds) - 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/4 cup of coconut oil - 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon of salt - 1 cup of dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut. 3. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. 4. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well coated. 5. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. 6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to ensure even baking. The granola should be golden brown and crispy. 7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. 8. Once cooled, add the dried fruit and mix well. 9. Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Homemade granola is a nutritious breakfast option when consumed in moderation. One serving (1/2 cup) typically contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It also provides a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. However, it is important to watch your portion sizes as granola can be calorie-dense. To keep the calorie count down, stick to one serving and pair it with a serving of yogurt or milk and some fresh fruit.

Tips for Customizing Your Granola

One of the best things about making your own homemade granola is that you can customize it to your liking. Here are some tips for making your granola unique: - Change up the nuts and seeds: Use your favorite nuts and seeds, or mix and match to create a unique blend. Try using almonds, pecans, cashews, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chia seeds. - Add some spices: Experiment with different spices to add flavor to your granola. Try adding nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, or allspice. - Use different sweeteners: Instead of honey or maple syrup, try using agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or molasses. - Add some crunch: If you like your granola extra crunchy, add some crispy rice cereal or puffed quinoa. - Mix in some chocolate: For a sweet treat, add some dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs to your granola.

Ways to Enjoy Your Granola

Homemade granola is a versatile breakfast option that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas: - Serve it with milk or yogurt: Pour some milk or yogurt over your granola for a classic breakfast option. - Make a parfait: Layer your granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack. - Top your oatmeal: Sprinkle some granola on top of your oatmeal for added texture and flavor. - Use it as a topping: Add some granola to your smoothie bowl, ice cream, or fruit salad for added texture and crunch. - Eat it as a snack: Grab a handful of granola for a quick and satisfying snack on the go.

In Conclusion

Homemade granola is a healthy and delicious breakfast option that can be customized to your liking. By following this simple recipe and adding your own personal touch, you can create a nutritious and tasty breakfast that will keep you full and satisfied all morning long. So, next time you're in the mood for granola, skip the store-bought version and try making your own!