Homemade granola cereal is a versatile and nutritious breakfast staple that’s easy to make and infinitely customizable. Packed with hearty oats, crunchy nuts, and a touch of natural sweetness, this granola can be enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or even as a snack on its own. Making granola at home allows you to control the ingredients, tailoring it to your taste while avoiding unnecessary additives found in store-bought versions. Whether you prefer it lightly toasted or extra crispy, this granola will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma and your bowl with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- ½ cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ⅓ cup coconut oil or olive oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nuts, shredded coconut, seeds, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the honey (or maple syrup), coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir to ensure even mixing.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with a spatula for clumps.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. For clumpier granola, avoid stirring too much. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruit: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will crisp up. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy with milk, yogurt, or by the handful!
This Homemade Granola Cereal is a delicious, crunchy treat that makes mornings easier and more enjoyable! Customize it with your favorite add-ins for a breakfast that’s uniquely yours.
