Crunchy Granola

Crunchy Granola Recipe - American breakfast and snack

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Granola is a popular breakfast and snack food known for its crunchy texture and sweet flavor. This homemade Crunchy Granola recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Granola was invented in the United States in the late 19th century as a health food. It was originally made with oats, nuts, and honey, and was marketed as a nutritious and energy-boosting snack. Over the years, granola has evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as dried fruits, seeds, and spices.

Ingredients

3 tbsp packed brown sugar
3 tbsp honey
1.25 tsp vegetable oil
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp vanilla
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup whole almonds
0.67 cups raisins

How to prepare

In a 1 qt (946 ml) saucepan, combine sugar, honey, vegetable oil, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Stir over low heat until the sugar is just dissolved.
Remove from heat and mix in the oats.
Spread out evenly on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
Bake in the center of a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10 minutes.
Sprinkle almonds over the top and bake for 10 more minutes until the almonds are golden brown.
Cool completely, then mix with raisins in a bowl.
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Variations

Add dried cranberries or apricots for a burst of sweetness.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to stir the granola mixture frequently while it is baking to ensure even cooking.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

- Store the granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Crunchy Granola with yogurt, milk, or fresh fruit for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this Crunchy Granola recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup instead of honey.

- Substitute almonds with your favorite nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

- Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This Crunchy Granola can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this Crunchy Granola in a decorative bowl or jar for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Crunchy Granola with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store this Crunchy Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes to restore its crunchiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This Crunchy Granola recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This Crunchy Granola recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This Crunchy Granola recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This Crunchy Granola recipe contains approximately 6 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Granola is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Alergens

This Crunchy Granola recipe contains nuts and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Crunchy Granola recipe is a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

This Crunchy Granola recipe is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option that is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or fresh fruit for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Crunchy Granola. It was a warm summer day many years ago, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was an excellent cook, and she always had the most delicious treats to share with me whenever I came over.

On that particular day, Margaret invited me into her cozy kitchen and handed me a bowl filled with the most amazing granola I had ever tasted. It was crunchy, sweet, and perfectly toasted, with a delightful blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. I couldn't stop eating it!

I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she smiled and told me that it was a family secret passed down from her grandmother. She offered to show me how to make it, and I eagerly agreed.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the granola, Margaret shared stories of her grandmother and the special bond they shared over cooking. She explained how her grandmother had learned the recipe from a kind old woman she had met while traveling through the countryside many years ago.

The old woman had shown her grandmother how to mix the oats, nuts, and honey just right to achieve the perfect crunch and flavor. Margaret's grandmother had treasured this recipe and passed it down through the generations, and now Margaret was sharing it with me.

As we baked the granola in the oven, the warm aroma filled the kitchen, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished tradition in my own home. Margaret and I enjoyed our freshly baked granola with yogurt and fresh fruit, savoring each delicious bite.

From that day on, Crunchy Granola became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, who all raved about its delicious taste and crunchy texture. I experimented with different variations, adding in my favorite nuts, seeds, and spices to create unique flavors.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with many people, passing on the tradition of Crunchy Granola to new generations. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking.

Now, as I prepare a fresh batch of Crunchy Granola for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile and think of Margaret and her grandmother. I am grateful for the memories and recipes that have been passed down to me, and I know that this simple yet delicious granola will continue to bring joy and connection to my family for years to come.