Hey y’all! It’s Darian here from County Mama Cooking. As a busy wife and mother of three young kids, I’m always looking for easy, healthy snacks to keep my family fueled up. That’s why easy granola is one of my go-to’s. Not only is it simple to whip up, but it’s also customizable and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Keep reading for my tips on making, serving and enjoying this wholesome treat.
Granola really is the perfect snack. With its combination of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch along with a boost of nutrients. The oats provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins. Meanwhile, the nuts and seeds offer protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium, selenium, and zinc. And the dried fruit contains antioxidants, natural sweetness, and a dose of vitamins.
Compared to store-bought varieties, easy granola has no preservatives or excessive sugars. You control exactly what goes into it. I like to use wholesome ingredients like raw honey, coconut oil, almonds, and dried cranberries. But you can customize the mix with your own favorite add-ins.
Easy Granola
Equipment
- oven
- 1 medium-sized bowl
- 1 small bowl
- 1 parchment paper-lined baking tray
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
- ½ cup Honey
- ½ cup Coconut oil
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 2 tbsp Flaxseed
- 1 tbsp Chia seeds
- 3 cups Oats
- ¾ cup Nuts
Instructions
- Begin by chopping your nuts (if they did not come pre-chopped).
- Pre-heat your oven to 350F.
- In a medium-sized bowl add in salt, cinnamon, flaxseed, chia seeds, nuts, and oats. Give a good mix and set aside.
- Grab a small bowl or measuring cup (microwave safe) and add the coconut oil and honey. Place in the microwave for 30 seconds. Remove from the microwave and whisk together until the coconut oil has fully melted.
- Once your coconut oil and honey are mixed well, pour it into the bowl with the oats mixture. Give it a good mix.
- After everything is mixed well, pour mixture onto a parchment paper-lined baking tray. Use a spatula and spread the mixture out evenly.
- Place in the oven at 350F for 45 minutes, stirring the mixture every 10 minutes. If you like larger chunks then only stir the mixture once (at about the halfway time).
- Once done, remove from the oven. Let completely cool before using or storing.
Video
Notes
- You can essentially use any nuts you prefer. After making this granola numerous times, I have found that pecans and walnuts work best.
- Don’t like flax seed or chia seeds? Switch it up, add whichever seeds you want. Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds work really well in this as well.
- You can swamp the coconut oil in the recipe for any neutral oil. I have found that olive oil and canola oil work well for granola as well.
Helpful Tips for Making Granola
While easy granola recipes vary, there are some basic tips I’ve learned for ensuring it turns out perfectly crunchy every time:
- Toast the oats slowly. Bake your easy granola at 300°F, stirring every 10 minutes. The low temp dries out the oats thoroughly without burning.
- Use a nonstick pan. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking.
- Mix in nuts and seeds halfway through. This prevents them from burning while allowing the oats to toast evenly.
- Let it cool completely before adding fruit. Dried fruit will become tough if baked. Stir it in once the granola has cooled.
- Store in an airtight container. For peak freshness and crunch factor, store granola in a sealed glass jar or zip-top bag. It will keep for 2-3 weeks.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Granola
A bowl of granola with milk or yogurt is a classic breakfast. But why stop there? This wholesome snack is delicious anytime and can be incorporated into meals and treats in so many ways!
- Make a yogurt parfait by layering granola with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas.
- Stir granola into your favorite muffin, pancake, or waffle batter for added crunch.
- Mix nut butter with granola and roll into energy bite-sized protein balls for an on-the-go snack.
- Sprinkle over baked fruit, like apples and pears, for a sweet and nutty topping.
- Add a scoop to your smoothie bowl or acai bowl for extra texture and nutrition.
- Use in place of crispy rice cereal to make homemade granola bars.
- For a warm breakfast, heat granola with milk on the stovetop until thickened, like oatmeal.
FAQs about Easy Granola
Over the years I’ve perfected my granola recipe, but I know folks still have questions! Here are some common FAQs:
Is easy granola healthy?
Yes, when made with wholesome ingredients and enjoyed in moderation. Be mindful of added sugars.
Does granola contain gluten?
Most recipes use gluten-containing oats. Opt for certified gluten-free oats if needed.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, coconut oil or olive oil work well. The fat helps the oats toast up nicely.
How long does granola last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it keeps fresh for 2-3 weeks at room temperature.
Can I use quick oats?
I prefer rolled oats, as they toast up crunchier. But in a pinch, quick oats will work too.
What sweeteners can I use?
Brown sugar, maple syrup, agave, or honey all work well. I prefer raw honey for its flavor.
Whipping up a batch of easy granola takes just a few minutes and yields the most delicious, wholesome snack. With so many ways to enjoy it, this crunchy treat can be incorporated into breakfasts, desserts, and everything in between. I hope these tips help you create your own signature granola filled with your favorite add-ins. Let me know if you have any other granola questions! And be sure to stop by County Mama Cooking for more quick, family-friendly recipes.