Vanilla Almond Granola Crunchy and Healthy Delight

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Are you ready to dive into a crunchy, healthy delight? My Vanilla Almond Granola is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, almonds, and hints of coconut and vanilla. It’s a quick, tasty snack or breakfast option that’s easy to make at home. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that’s not only delicious but also good for you. Let’s get started!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy Snacking: This granola is packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy and nutrients without added refined sugars.
  2. Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste.
  3. Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this granola can be whipped up quickly, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
  4. Deliciously Crunchy: The combination of baked oats, almonds, and coconut creates a delightful crunch that is hard to resist!

Ingredients

To make Vanilla Almond Granola, you need simple and tasty ingredients. Each one adds flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 3 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup sliced almonds

– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

What do these ingredients do?

Rolled oats form the base. They give the granola its crunch. Sliced almonds add a nutty taste and healthy fats. Unsweetened shredded coconut gives a hint of sweetness and chewiness.

Pure maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener. It binds everything together and brings depth to the flavor. Coconut oil adds richness and helps with baking. Pure vanilla extract gives a warm aroma that makes your kitchen smell great.

Ground cinnamon adds a cozy spice. Salt enhances all the flavors, making them pop. Finally, if you want extra sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins. They give your granola a fruity twist.

Why choose these ingredients?

They are nutritious and delicious. Together, they create a healthy and satisfying snack. You can enjoy this granola on yogurt, milk, or by the handful. It’s a good way to start your day or satisfy your snack cravings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the granola bake evenly. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.

Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, mix the rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to combine everything well. This step is key for flavor.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth. This blend gives your granola sweetness and rich taste.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly so that the oats and almonds get coated. This helps form clumps while baking, making your granola crunchy.

Spread the Mixture

Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Press it down gently to help it stick together.

Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola every 10 minutes. Look for a golden-brown color to know it’s crispy and ready.

Cool the Granola

Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step makes it extra crunchy.

Add Dried Fruits (Optional)

If you want to add dried cranberries or raisins, do it now. Gently fold them into the cooled granola. This adds sweetness and chewy texture.

Store for Freshness

Store your granola in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Enjoy it for snacks or breakfast!

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Consistency

To achieve the ideal crunch in your granola, focus on ingredient ratios. The oats and almonds should be in perfect balance. I use three cups of rolled oats and one cup of sliced almonds. This mix gives you a great base. The coconut adds flavor and texture, so include half a cup of shredded coconut.

Ensuring Even Baking

Baking granola can be tricky. To get an even bake, spread the mixture in a thin layer on your baking sheet. Use a spatula to press it down gently. This helps form clumps. Stir the granola every ten minutes while baking. This step ensures that all parts bake evenly. Look for a golden-brown color. This shows that your granola is ready.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Each ingredient in granola brings health benefits. Rolled oats are full of fiber, which helps digestion. Almonds provide healthy fats and protein. Shredded coconut adds healthy medium-chain fats. Maple syrup gives natural sweetness without refined sugars. Cinnamon can help control blood sugar levels. Adding dried fruits like cranberries gives you antioxidants. This makes your granola both tasty and nutritious!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensuring your oats, nuts, and spices are fresh will enhance the flavor of your granola significantly.
  2. Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preference; you can also substitute with agave or honey.
  3. Mix In Extras: Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for a personalized touch to your granola.
  4. Store Properly: Keep your granola in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunch and freshness longer.

Variations

Nut-Free Options

If you want to skip nuts, you can still enjoy this granola. Use seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead. They add crunch and healthy fats. You can also increase the coconut to give more texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the same ratios. This way, your granola will still be tasty and satisfying.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

To make this granola gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Many brands offer gluten-free oats that are safe for those with gluten sensitivities. This small change allows everyone to enjoy this crunchy treat. You can also check the labels of your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Flavor Enhancements (Add spices or different extracts)

You can easily add more flavor to your granola. Try mixing in spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. You can also use almond extract if you want a stronger almond taste. Another fun idea is to add a pinch of cocoa powder for a hint of chocolate. These tweaks will keep your granola exciting and full of surprises.

Storage Info

Best Storage Methods

To keep your granola fresh, use an airtight container. This helps maintain its crunchiness. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Place the container in a cool, dry area, away from sunlight. Avoid storing it near heat sources, which can make it stale.

Shelf Life

Homemade granola lasts about two weeks at room temperature. If stored correctly, it stays fresh and tasty. You can also check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or changes in texture. If it feels soft or chewy, it may need to be tossed.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze granola to extend its life. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen granola can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it at room temperature. It will taste great, just like fresh!

FAQs

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can use honey as a sweet swap. It gives a nice flavor. Agave syrup is another option if you want a vegan choice. You can also try brown sugar mixed with water for a simple syrup.

How long does homemade granola last?

Homemade granola lasts up to two weeks in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. It stays fresh and tasty for breakfast or snacks during that time.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, you can customize your granola! Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. If you like chocolate, toss in some dark chocolate chips. This way, you can create a mix that fits your taste perfectly.

Is granola gluten-free?

Granola can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are safe for a gluten-free diet. With the right oats, you can enjoy granola without worry.

How do I prevent granola from becoming soggy?

To keep your granola crunchy, let it cool completely after baking. Store it in an airtight container. Avoid adding wet fruits until you are ready to eat. This way, it stays crisp and delicious.

This blog post covered everything you need to know to make tasty granola. We talked about the key ingredients like oats and almonds, plus helpful steps to mix and bake your batch. You learned tips for the best texture and health perks of each ingredient. I shared fun ways to change up the recipe and details on how to keep granola fresh.

Now, you can enjoy homemade granola anytime. Get creative and make it your

To make Vanilla Almond Granola, you need simple and tasty ingredients. Each one adds flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need: - 3 cups rolled oats - 1 cup sliced almonds - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) What do these ingredients do? Rolled oats form the base. They give the granola its crunch. Sliced almonds add a nutty taste and healthy fats. Unsweetened shredded coconut gives a hint of sweetness and chewiness. Pure maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener. It binds everything together and brings depth to the flavor. Coconut oil adds richness and helps with baking. Pure vanilla extract gives a warm aroma that makes your kitchen smell great. Ground cinnamon adds a cozy spice. Salt enhances all the flavors, making them pop. Finally, if you want extra sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins. They give your granola a fruity twist. Why choose these ingredients? They are nutritious and delicious. Together, they create a healthy and satisfying snack. You can enjoy this granola on yogurt, milk, or by the handful. It's a good way to start your day or satisfy your snack cravings. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the granola bake evenly. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking. In a big mixing bowl, mix the rolled oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to combine everything well. This step is key for flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth. This blend gives your granola sweetness and rich taste. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly so that the oats and almonds get coated. This helps form clumps while baking, making your granola crunchy. Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Press it down gently to help it stick together. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola every 10 minutes. Look for a golden-brown color to know it’s crispy and ready. Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step makes it extra crunchy. If you want to add dried cranberries or raisins, do it now. Gently fold them into the cooled granola. This adds sweetness and chewy texture. Store your granola in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Enjoy it for snacks or breakfast! To achieve the ideal crunch in your granola, focus on ingredient ratios. The oats and almonds should be in perfect balance. I use three cups of rolled oats and one cup of sliced almonds. This mix gives you a great base. The coconut adds flavor and texture, so include half a cup of shredded coconut. Baking granola can be tricky. To get an even bake, spread the mixture in a thin layer on your baking sheet. Use a spatula to press it down gently. This helps form clumps. Stir the granola every ten minutes while baking. This step ensures that all parts bake evenly. Look for a golden-brown color. This shows that your granola is ready. Each ingredient in granola brings health benefits. Rolled oats are full of fiber, which helps digestion. Almonds provide healthy fats and protein. Shredded coconut adds healthy medium-chain fats. Maple syrup gives natural sweetness without refined sugars. Cinnamon can help control blood sugar levels. Adding dried fruits like cranberries gives you antioxidants. This makes your granola both tasty and nutritious! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensuring your oats, nuts, and spices are fresh will enhance the flavor of your granola significantly. Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preference; you can also substitute with agave or honey. Mix In Extras: Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for a personalized touch to your granola. Store Properly: Keep your granola in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunch and freshness longer. {{image_4}} If you want to skip nuts, you can still enjoy this granola. Use seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead. They add crunch and healthy fats. You can also increase the coconut to give more texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the same ratios. This way, your granola will still be tasty and satisfying. To make this granola gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Many brands offer gluten-free oats that are safe for those with gluten sensitivities. This small change allows everyone to enjoy this crunchy treat. You can also check the labels of your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. You can easily add more flavor to your granola. Try mixing in spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. You can also use almond extract if you want a stronger almond taste. Another fun idea is to add a pinch of cocoa powder for a hint of chocolate. These tweaks will keep your granola exciting and full of surprises. To keep your granola fresh, use an airtight container. This helps maintain its crunchiness. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Place the container in a cool, dry area, away from sunlight. Avoid storing it near heat sources, which can make it stale. Homemade granola lasts about two weeks at room temperature. If stored correctly, it stays fresh and tasty. You can also check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or changes in texture. If it feels soft or chewy, it may need to be tossed. You can freeze granola to extend its life. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen granola can last up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, just thaw it at room temperature. It will taste great, just like fresh! You can use honey as a sweet swap. It gives a nice flavor. Agave syrup is another option if you want a vegan choice. You can also try brown sugar mixed with water for a simple syrup. Homemade granola lasts up to two weeks in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. It stays fresh and tasty for breakfast or snacks during that time. Yes, you can customize your granola! Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. If you like chocolate, toss in some dark chocolate chips. This way, you can create a mix that fits your taste perfectly. Granola can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are safe for a gluten-free diet. With the right oats, you can enjoy granola without worry. To keep your granola crunchy, let it cool completely after baking. Store it in an airtight container. Avoid adding wet fruits until you are ready to eat. This way, it stays crisp and delicious. This blog post covered everything you need to know to make tasty granola. We talked about the key ingredients like oats and almonds, plus helpful steps to mix and bake your batch. You learned tips for the best texture and health perks of each ingredient. I shared fun ways to change up the recipe and details on how to keep granola fresh. Now, you can enjoy homemade granola anytime. Get creative and make it yours!

Crunchy Vanilla Almond Granola

A delicious and crunchy granola made with rolled oats, almonds, and coconut, sweetened with maple syrup.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup sliced almonds
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 0.5 cup pure maple syrup
  • 0.25 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, unsweetened shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.
  • Transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly, pressing down gently.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes until golden-brown.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet.
  • If using, mix in dried cranberries or raisins until evenly distributed.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Keyword breakfast, granola, healthy, snack

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