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Vanilla Almond Granola Crunchy and Healthy Snack

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- 3 cups rolled oats - 1 cup sliced almonds - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) You can swap honey for agave nectar or brown rice syrup. Maple syrup works well too. If you need a different fat, try using olive oil or avocado oil. These oils can add flavor and healthy fats, similar to coconut oil. This granola has about 200 calories per serving. It offers a balance of carbs, fats, and protein. You get about 6 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbs. The oats provide fiber, while almonds add healthy fats. With dried fruits, you also get vitamins like vitamin E and minerals like magnesium. This granola is a tasty and healthy snack! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps the granola crisp up without burning. Next, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the granola not stick. In a big mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of sliced almonds, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a spatula or a spoon to mix everything together well. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly spread. In a small saucepan, put 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Heat this over low heat. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well mixed. This should take just a few minutes. Once your wet mixture is ready, pour it over the dry ingredients. Use your spatula to stir gently. Make sure every piece of oat and almond gets coated. No dry spots should be left. This step is key for flavor. Spread the granola mixture evenly on your lined baking sheet. Make sure it's in a single layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola. This helps it brown nicely and cook evenly. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown. After baking, take the granola out and let it cool on the baking sheet. Cooling is important because it helps the granola become crunchy. If you want, add in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins once it cools. This adds a sweet touch and more texture. To get that perfect crunch in your granola, follow these simple steps. First, make sure to bake your granola at 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps it cook evenly without burning. Next, spread the mixture in one even layer on the baking sheet. This ensures that every piece gets enough heat. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This keeps it from clumping and helps it brown evenly. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time allows it to firm up and reach maximum crunchiness. If you skip this step, you may end up with soggy granola. To boost the flavor of your granola, consider adding spices. Ground cinnamon is a great start, but you can also try nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. For a richer vanilla taste, use high-quality vanilla extract. The pure version makes a big difference. You can even add a splash of almond extract for more depth. This little change can really elevate your granola’s flavor. Storing your granola correctly is key to keeping it fresh. Use an airtight container to keep out air and moisture. Glass jars work well and look nice too. Store your granola at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy your tasty granola whenever you want! Pro Tips Storage is Key: Keep your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and freshness for up to two weeks. Mix It Up: Feel free to substitute the sliced almonds with other nuts or seeds like walnuts or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preference or try using agave syrup for a vegan option. Even Baking: Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure it browns evenly, preventing any parts from becoming too dark or burnt. {{image_4}} You can switch up the nuts in your granola. Instead of sliced almonds, try walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a rich flavor and crunch. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They boost the nutrition and add more texture. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the balance. Want to make your granola even more exciting? Try adding spices! Ginger or nutmeg can bring warmth to your mix. Just a sprinkle of either can change the whole taste. You can also mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors you love. If you prefer your granola less sweet, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup. Start with a little less and see how it tastes. You can always add a drizzle later. If you like it sweeter, add more. You can also use a sugar alternative like agave or stevia. Adjusting the sweetness lets you make this snack just how you like it. To keep your granola fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place. This helps to keep it crunchy and full of flavor. Avoid keeping it near heat sources or sunlight. At room temperature, the granola lasts about two weeks. After that, it may lose its crunch. If you notice your granola becoming stale, it’s time to toss it out. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or change in texture. For long-term storage, you can freeze the granola. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it into the oven for a few minutes to refresh its crunch. Yes, you can easily make this granola vegan. Just swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both give a sweet taste without animal products. This change keeps the granola sticky and delicious. You can also use brown rice syrup as an option. It works well too! To turn the granola into bars, adjust the recipe slightly. After mixing, press the granola firmly into a lined baking pan. Use a spatula to create an even layer. Bake it for about 20 minutes instead of 30. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars. This way, you get chewy and tasty granola bars! Homemade granola offers many health benefits. You control the ingredients, so you avoid extra sugars and preservatives. You can choose whole, natural foods like oats and nuts. These provide fiber and healthy fats. Store-bought granola often has hidden sugars and oils. Making your own lets you stay healthy without sacrificing taste. Yes, you can add protein easily! Mix in a scoop of protein powder when combining the dry ingredients. You can also add seeds like chia or hemp. They boost protein and add a nice crunch. Nuts can also enhance protein content, so feel free to mix your favorites! Homemade granola is easy and fun to make. We covered key ingredients, substitutions, and nutritional details. The step-by-step guide simplifies the process, ensuring your granola turns out crunchy and flavorful. With tips for storage and variations, you can personalize each batch. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. This granola is healthier than store-bought options, making it a great choice for snacking or breakfast. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nutritious!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty and healthy snack? My Vanilla Almond Granola is just what you need! This recipe blends oats and nuts with a touch of sweetness, making it perfect for breakfast or a quick energy boost. Packed with nutrients, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let me guide you through the simple steps to create a crunchy granola that you’ll love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy Start: This granola is packed with rolled oats and almonds, making it a nutritious option that fuels your day with energy.
  2. Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds to suit your taste.
  3. Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
  4. Great for Gifting: Packaged in mason jars, this granola makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 3 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup sliced almonds

– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

– 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap honey for agave nectar or brown rice syrup. Maple syrup works well too. If you need a different fat, try using olive oil or avocado oil. These oils can add flavor and healthy fats, similar to coconut oil.

Nutritional Information

This granola has about 200 calories per serving. It offers a balance of carbs, fats, and protein. You get about 6 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbs. The oats provide fiber, while almonds add healthy fats. With dried fruits, you also get vitamins like vitamin E and minerals like magnesium. This granola is a tasty and healthy snack!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping Your Oven and Baking Sheet

First, set your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps the granola crisp up without burning. Next, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the granola not stick.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of sliced almonds, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a spatula or a spoon to mix everything together well. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly spread.

Preparing the Wet Mixture

In a small saucepan, put 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Heat this over low heat. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well mixed. This should take just a few minutes.

Combining Dry and Wet Mixtures

Once your wet mixture is ready, pour it over the dry ingredients. Use your spatula to stir gently. Make sure every piece of oat and almond gets coated. No dry spots should be left. This step is key for flavor.

Baking Process

Spread the granola mixture evenly on your lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s in a single layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola. This helps it brown nicely and cook evenly. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown.

Cooling and Final Touches

After baking, take the granola out and let it cool on the baking sheet. Cooling is important because it helps the granola become crunchy. If you want, add in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins once it cools. This adds a sweet touch and more texture.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To get that perfect crunch in your granola, follow these simple steps. First, make sure to bake your granola at 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps it cook evenly without burning.

Next, spread the mixture in one even layer on the baking sheet. This ensures that every piece gets enough heat. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This keeps it from clumping and helps it brown evenly.

Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time allows it to firm up and reach maximum crunchiness. If you skip this step, you may end up with soggy granola.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor of your granola, consider adding spices. Ground cinnamon is a great start, but you can also try nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.

For a richer vanilla taste, use high-quality vanilla extract. The pure version makes a big difference. You can even add a splash of almond extract for more depth. This little change can really elevate your granola’s flavor.

Storage Advice

Storing your granola correctly is key to keeping it fresh. Use an airtight container to keep out air and moisture. Glass jars work well and look nice too.

Store your granola at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy your tasty granola whenever you want!

Pro Tips

  1. Storage is Key: Keep your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and freshness for up to two weeks.
  2. Mix It Up: Feel free to substitute the sliced almonds with other nuts or seeds like walnuts or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile.
  3. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preference or try using agave syrup for a vegan option.
  4. Even Baking: Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure it browns evenly, preventing any parts from becoming too dark or burnt.

Variations

Different Nut and Seed Options

You can switch up the nuts in your granola. Instead of sliced almonds, try walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a rich flavor and crunch. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They boost the nutrition and add more texture. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the balance.

Flavor Infusions

Want to make your granola even more exciting? Try adding spices! Ginger or nutmeg can bring warmth to your mix. Just a sprinkle of either can change the whole taste. You can also mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors you love.

Sweetness Adjustments

If you prefer your granola less sweet, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup. Start with a little less and see how it tastes. You can always add a drizzle later. If you like it sweeter, add more. You can also use a sugar alternative like agave or stevia. Adjusting the sweetness lets you make this snack just how you like it.

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your granola fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place. This helps to keep it crunchy and full of flavor. Avoid keeping it near heat sources or sunlight.

Shelf Life

At room temperature, the granola lasts about two weeks. After that, it may lose its crunch. If you notice your granola becoming stale, it’s time to toss it out. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or change in texture.

Freezing Instructions

For long-term storage, you can freeze the granola. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it into the oven for a few minutes to refresh its crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this granola vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this granola vegan. Just swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both give a sweet taste without animal products. This change keeps the granola sticky and delicious. You can also use brown rice syrup as an option. It works well too!

How do I make granola bars from this recipe?

To turn the granola into bars, adjust the recipe slightly. After mixing, press the granola firmly into a lined baking pan. Use a spatula to create an even layer. Bake it for about 20 minutes instead of 30. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars. This way, you get chewy and tasty granola bars!

What are the health benefits of homemade granola?

Homemade granola offers many health benefits. You control the ingredients, so you avoid extra sugars and preservatives. You can choose whole, natural foods like oats and nuts. These provide fiber and healthy fats. Store-bought granola often has hidden sugars and oils. Making your own lets you stay healthy without sacrificing taste.

Is it possible to add protein to this granola?

Yes, you can add protein easily! Mix in a scoop of protein powder when combining the dry ingredients. You can also add seeds like chia or hemp. They boost protein and add a nice crunch. Nuts can also enhance protein content, so feel free to mix your favorites!

Homemade granola is easy and fun to make. We covered key ingredients, substitutions, and nutritional details. The step-by-step guide simplifies the process, ensuring your granola turns out crunchy and flavorful. With tips for storage and variations, you can personalize each batch. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. This granola is healthier than store-bought options, making it a great choice for snacking or breakfast. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nutritiou

- 3 cups rolled oats - 1 cup sliced almonds - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) You can swap honey for agave nectar or brown rice syrup. Maple syrup works well too. If you need a different fat, try using olive oil or avocado oil. These oils can add flavor and healthy fats, similar to coconut oil. This granola has about 200 calories per serving. It offers a balance of carbs, fats, and protein. You get about 6 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbs. The oats provide fiber, while almonds add healthy fats. With dried fruits, you also get vitamins like vitamin E and minerals like magnesium. This granola is a tasty and healthy snack! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps the granola crisp up without burning. Next, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the granola not stick. In a big mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of sliced almonds, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a spatula or a spoon to mix everything together well. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly spread. In a small saucepan, put 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Heat this over low heat. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well mixed. This should take just a few minutes. Once your wet mixture is ready, pour it over the dry ingredients. Use your spatula to stir gently. Make sure every piece of oat and almond gets coated. No dry spots should be left. This step is key for flavor. Spread the granola mixture evenly on your lined baking sheet. Make sure it's in a single layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola. This helps it brown nicely and cook evenly. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown. After baking, take the granola out and let it cool on the baking sheet. Cooling is important because it helps the granola become crunchy. If you want, add in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins once it cools. This adds a sweet touch and more texture. To get that perfect crunch in your granola, follow these simple steps. First, make sure to bake your granola at 300°F (150°C). This low heat helps it cook evenly without burning. Next, spread the mixture in one even layer on the baking sheet. This ensures that every piece gets enough heat. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This keeps it from clumping and helps it brown evenly. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time allows it to firm up and reach maximum crunchiness. If you skip this step, you may end up with soggy granola. To boost the flavor of your granola, consider adding spices. Ground cinnamon is a great start, but you can also try nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. For a richer vanilla taste, use high-quality vanilla extract. The pure version makes a big difference. You can even add a splash of almond extract for more depth. This little change can really elevate your granola’s flavor. Storing your granola correctly is key to keeping it fresh. Use an airtight container to keep out air and moisture. Glass jars work well and look nice too. Store your granola at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy your tasty granola whenever you want! Pro Tips Storage is Key: Keep your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and freshness for up to two weeks. Mix It Up: Feel free to substitute the sliced almonds with other nuts or seeds like walnuts or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preference or try using agave syrup for a vegan option. Even Baking: Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure it browns evenly, preventing any parts from becoming too dark or burnt. {{image_4}} You can switch up the nuts in your granola. Instead of sliced almonds, try walnuts or pecans. These nuts add a rich flavor and crunch. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They boost the nutrition and add more texture. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the balance. Want to make your granola even more exciting? Try adding spices! Ginger or nutmeg can bring warmth to your mix. Just a sprinkle of either can change the whole taste. You can also mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors you love. If you prefer your granola less sweet, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup. Start with a little less and see how it tastes. You can always add a drizzle later. If you like it sweeter, add more. You can also use a sugar alternative like agave or stevia. Adjusting the sweetness lets you make this snack just how you like it. To keep your granola fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place. This helps to keep it crunchy and full of flavor. Avoid keeping it near heat sources or sunlight. At room temperature, the granola lasts about two weeks. After that, it may lose its crunch. If you notice your granola becoming stale, it’s time to toss it out. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or change in texture. For long-term storage, you can freeze the granola. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it into the oven for a few minutes to refresh its crunch. Yes, you can easily make this granola vegan. Just swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both give a sweet taste without animal products. This change keeps the granola sticky and delicious. You can also use brown rice syrup as an option. It works well too! To turn the granola into bars, adjust the recipe slightly. After mixing, press the granola firmly into a lined baking pan. Use a spatula to create an even layer. Bake it for about 20 minutes instead of 30. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars. This way, you get chewy and tasty granola bars! Homemade granola offers many health benefits. You control the ingredients, so you avoid extra sugars and preservatives. You can choose whole, natural foods like oats and nuts. These provide fiber and healthy fats. Store-bought granola often has hidden sugars and oils. Making your own lets you stay healthy without sacrificing taste. Yes, you can add protein easily! Mix in a scoop of protein powder when combining the dry ingredients. You can also add seeds like chia or hemp. They boost protein and add a nice crunch. Nuts can also enhance protein content, so feel free to mix your favorites! Homemade granola is easy and fun to make. We covered key ingredients, substitutions, and nutritional details. The step-by-step guide simplifies the process, ensuring your granola turns out crunchy and flavorful. With tips for storage and variations, you can personalize each batch. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. This granola is healthier than store-bought options, making it a great choice for snacking or breakfast. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nutritious!

Vanilla Almond Crunch Granola

A delicious and crunchy granola made with rolled oats, sliced almonds, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  • In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or spoon, making sure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • In a small saucepan set over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and pure vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well incorporated. This should only take a few minutes.
  • Once the wet mixture is ready, pour it over the dry oat and almond mixture. Use a spatula to gently stir until all the dry ingredients are fully coated in the wet mixture. Ensure there are no dry spots remaining.
  • Spread the granola mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it's in a single layer to promote even baking. Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir the granola halfway through the baking time to help it brown evenly. Bake until it turns a lovely golden brown color.
  • After baking, carefully remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, mix in dried cranberries or raisins, if using, to add a touch of sweetness and texture.
  • Store your delicious granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option!

Notes

Serve with yogurt and fresh fruit or package in mason jars for gifts.
Keyword breakfast, granola, healthy, snack

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