The Ultimate Homemade Granola Recipe

Here's an ultimate homemade granola recipe that's customizable, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Feel free to adjust the nuts, dried fruits, and sweeteners to your preference.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1 cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans), roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup mixed seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 cup coconut oil or any neutral oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, apricots), chopped if large

Optional Add-ins:

• Dark chocolate chips or chunks

• Chia seeds

• Flax seeds

• Dried coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, mixed nuts, mixed seeds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey or maple syrup and coconut oil over low heat until they're combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.

5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Press down slightly to create an even layer.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the granola turns golden brown, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even toasting.

7. Add Dried Fruits: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool slightly. Stir in the mixed dried fruits and any optional add-ins you desire.

8. Cool and Store: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will become crispier. Once completely cool, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage.

9. Enjoy: Serve your homemade granola with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for smoothie bowls. It also makes a great on-the-go snack.

Tips:

• Customize the recipe by swapping nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sweeteners to match your taste preferences.

• Be sure to watch the granola closely as it bakes to prevent it from burning.

• Store the granola in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.

This ultimate homemade granola recipe offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast or snack that you can feel great about!