Easy Homemade Granola

Easy Homemade Granola Recipe - A Delicious & Nutritious Treat

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Granola is a popular breakfast and snack food that is known for its crunchy texture and sweet flavor. This Easy Homemade Granola recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious treat at home. Packed with nuts, seeds, oats, and dried fruit, this granola is a great source of energy and nutrients.

History

Granola was invented in the United States in the late 19th century as a health food. It was originally made with whole grains, nuts, and honey, and was marketed as a nutritious and filling breakfast option. Over the years, granola has evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as dried fruit, coconut, and spices. Today, granola is enjoyed by people all over the world as a tasty and convenient snack.

Ingredients

1 cup of sunflower seeds
0.5 cup of sesame seeds
0.25 cup of almonds
3 cups of rolled oats
0.25 cup of flour
0.5 cup of brown sugar or apple juice concentrate, mixed with 0.5 cup of water
5 tbsp of vegetable oil
0.5 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of vanilla extract
3-4 tbsp of natural maple syrup
1 tsp of cinnamon
0.5 cup of dried fruit (raisins, apricot pieces, cherries or cranberries)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a dry, ungreased skillet, combine the seeds and nuts.
Stir the mixture frequently over low heat until a toasty, warm scent is detected. Alternatively, you can toast the nuts and seeds in a toaster oven for 2 minutes on a low setting.
In a large bowl, combine the nuts, seeds, and all other remaining ingredients (except dried fruit).
Spread the resulting mixture evenly onto two cookie sheets.
Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden, flipping the mixture often using a spatula or spoon during baking.
Remove from the oven and stir in the dried fruit.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.

Variations

Add coconut flakes or chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
Use different types of nuts and seeds for a unique taste.
Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the granola mixture frequently while toasting to prevent burning.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve this granola with yogurt, milk, or fruit for a tasty and filling breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the nuts and seeds in a skillet or toaster oven helps to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the nuts and seeds in this recipe with your favorite varieties, such as walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare a large batch of this granola and store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this granola in a decorative bowl or jar for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This granola pairs well with yogurt, milk, or fruit for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place the granola in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 7g

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg

- Calcium: 60mg

- Vitamin C: 1mg

Alergens

Contains nuts and seeds

Summary

This Easy Homemade Granola is a nutritious and delicious snack that is high in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron and calcium. However, it contains nuts and seeds, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies.

Summary

This Easy Homemade Granola recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful snack. Packed with nuts, seeds, oats, and dried fruit, this granola is a great source of energy and nutrients. Customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients and enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or fruit for a tasty and filling breakfast or snack.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Easy Homemade Granola. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling outside and the smell of cinnamon filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious and wholesome cooking. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on tea, she mentioned that she had just made a batch of granola that morning.

Margaret began to tell me about how easy it was to make granola at home, and how much healthier and tastier it was compared to store-bought varieties. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. With a warm smile, Margaret handed me a handwritten note with the ingredients and instructions for making her Easy Homemade Granola.

I was thrilled to have this recipe in my hands and couldn't wait to get home and try it out for myself. As I gathered the ingredients and prepared to make the granola, I couldn't help but think back to all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my own mother and grandmother, learning how to cook and bake.

I remembered the smell of freshly baked bread, the sound of sizzling onions in a pan, and the taste of homemade jam on warm toast. Cooking had always been a passion of mine, and I had been lucky enough to learn from some of the best cooks in my family and community.

As I mixed together the oats, nuts, and honey for the granola, I thought about all the wonderful memories I had of sharing meals with loved ones. Food had a way of bringing people together, of creating lasting bonds and unforgettable moments. I knew that this recipe for Easy Homemade Granola would become a new favorite in my household, a dish that would be enjoyed and shared for years to come.

The granola baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a sweet and nutty aroma. I eagerly waited for it to cool before taking my first bite. The crunch of the oats and nuts, the sweetness of the honey, and the hint of cinnamon all combined to create a truly delicious and satisfying treat.

I packaged up some of the granola to share with my family and friends, eager to spread the joy of this newfound recipe. As I passed out bags of granola to those I loved, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking and the ability to create something delicious and nourishing from simple ingredients.

Over the years, I have continued to make this Easy Homemade Granola recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes and preferences. Each time I prepare a batch, I am reminded of that crisp autumn day in Margaret's kitchen, of the warmth and generosity that she shared with me in passing along this recipe.

Food has a way of connecting us to our past, of bringing back memories and emotions that we hold dear. I am grateful for the rich tapestry of recipes and traditions that I have collected over the years, each one a reminder of the love and care that has gone into creating and sharing meals with those I hold dear.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Easy Homemade Granola, I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy. The simple act of cooking and sharing food has brought me so much happiness and fulfillment, and I know that it will continue to do so for many years to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.