How to Make Homemade Granola in 20 Minutes
Are you obsessed with granola but want a healthier, more affordable version? I’ve got just the thing! My healthy homemade granola recipe is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. Have I got your attention now? Read on to learn how to make granola homemade, and get my secret, delicious recipe!
Other Breakfast Recipes to Try
Why I Like My Version Better
I get to control the ingredients! I go for organic, high-quality ingredients. I love organic, pasture-raised chicken. It tastes better and it doesn’t have the hormones in it.
I like the coconut strips because they are gluten-free, not deep-fried in a high-inflammatory oil. I use avocado oil because it has a high smoke point.
The crispy rice noodles are not deep fried in a highly inflammatory oil, just air fried with avocado oil.
The dressing is made with real, high-quality ingredients. Olive oil is the base, which is an amazing healthy fat!
Ingredients for Homemade Granola
OATS
I prefer using quick-cooking oats or rolled oats for this recipe. Just use whichever one you have on hand. Also, try to look for organic when possible, oats are heavily sprayed with pesticides, so it’s great to load up on it when it’s on sale.
NUTS/SEEDS
Use any variation of nuts or seeds you have on hand. For example, if you only have almonds and pumpkin seeds, just use 1/2 almonds and 1/2 pumpkin seeds. If you are not free, you can use sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. If you like larger nuts, like pecans or walnuts, you can keep them whole; if you like smaller (I prefer them chopped), I will roughly chop them.
LIQUID SWEETENER
Use any liquid sweetener on hand, I love utilizing maple syrup, honey, and agave interchangeably. Just use what you have for a naturally sweetened granola. You can also alter the sweetness level by adding more or less. It’s up to you!
OIL
I like to use a neutral oil like coconut oil, avocado oil, or olive oil. If you only have vegetable oil, that's fine; use whatever you have on hand!
SPICES
I always add cinnamon, but oftentimes, I will also add ginger powder and pumpkin pie spice during the fall time of year. You can also add nutmeg. Just use what you have!
Jazz's Recommended Products
Glass Bowl Set
This versatile glass bowl set is perfect for mixing up your granola ingredients. The clear design lets you easily see your oat mixture, and the various sizes are great for prepping and storing your favorite mix-ins.Rachel Ray Bakeware Set
The Rachel Ray Bakeware Set is ideal for baking your homemade granola to golden brown perfection. Its durable, non-stick surface ensures even baking and easy cleanup, making it a staple in your kitchen for all your baking needs.
How to Make Homemade Granola
Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix to combine.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix well.
Lay the mixture on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and press down with the back of the spatula.
Bake for 15 minutes. Let them cool completely for an hour before breaking it apart (that's the trick to get the large clusters).
Store in a jar or any sort of container for 4 weeks!
Storage
Transfer your granola to a jar or an airtight container at room temperature. This will help to maintain its freshness and prevent it from getting stale. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to keep moisture out.
If stored in an airtight container, homemade granola can be kept in your pantry for up to 4 weeks. The pantry's cool and dry environment will help preserve its flavor and texture.
If you prefer your granola to have an extra crunch, you can store it in the fridge. Transfer the granola to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 months in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the texture might become slightly softer due to the moisture in the fridge.
To extend the shelf life of your homemade granola, you can freeze it. Place the granola in a ziplock bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. Frozen granola can last for up to 4 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
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Yes, you can make granola without oil. Substitute the oil with additional liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, or use applesauce or mashed bananas for moisture and binding.
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Vegan alternatives to honey include maple syrup, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or date syrup. These options will keep your granola sweet and delicious.
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Dried fruit:Add a handful of dried cranberries, raisins, chopped dates, or apricots to give your granola a sweet and chewy texture.
Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes will add a delicious tropical flavor to your granola. You can use sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference.
Chocolate chips: If you're a chocolate lover, sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips or chunks after the granola cools. The melty chocolate will make your granola even more irresistible.
Spices: Experiment with different spices to enhance the flavor profile of your granola. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a warm and cozy taste. Or add a dash of ground cloves or allspice for a hint of warmth and earthiness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla extract can make your granola taste extra delicious. Just add it to the wet ingredients before mixing everything together.
Citrus zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the mixture for a burst of citrusy flavor. This will add a bright and refreshing twist to your granola.
Nut butter: If you're a fan of nutty flavors, stir in a spoonful of almond butter, peanut butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.
Chia seeds: Sprinkle in some chia seeds for added crunch and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. They also provide extra fiber and protein.
Brown sugar: For a richer, deeper sweetness, add a bit of brown sugar to your granola mix. This will enhance the flavor and give it a more caramel-like taste.
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To make gluten-free granola, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and check that any additional ingredients (like nuts, seeds, and sweeteners) are also gluten-free.
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Fresh fruit is best added to granola when serving, as it has a high moisture content that can make the granola soggy. Add dried fruit to the granola mix for storage.
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Bake your granola at a low temperature (around 300-325 degrees Fahrenheit) and stir it every 10 minutes to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time, as it can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.
This easy homemade granola recipe is perfect for breakfast or snacks, whether you top your yogurt parfait or smoothie bowls. Made with basic ingredients like quick oats, real maple syrup, and a variety of nuts and seeds, it's a healthy and versatile alternative to store-bought versions. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins like fresh fruit or fresh berries, and enjoy the delicious granola fresh out of the oven. This granola recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering health benefits without unnecessary additives.
Make sure to save this recipe, comment on questions you may have, and watch my video if you need a tutorial!
Homemade Granola in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
- 3 cups oats (quick cooking or rolled oats work best)
- 1 cup nuts or seeds (anything goes)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (or any liquid sweetener like honey, agave etc.)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted (or olive oil)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl, mix to combine.
- Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix well.
- Lay mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet, press down with the back of the spatula.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Let them cool for an hour before breaking it apart (thats the trick to get the large clusters).
- Store in a jar or any sort of container for 4 weeks!
Notes
Store the granola in an airtight container in your pantry for up to 4 weeks.
Store granola in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Store granola in the freezer in a ziplock bag for up to 4 months.
To achieve granola clusters, lay flat on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and press down with the back of a spatula or cup to get it into an even layer. After baking, let it sit for 1 hour before breaking apart to form clusters!
Hey, I’m Jazz
I’m a nutritional therapist practitioner and spent 3 years as a personal chef to NBA athletes. Follow along for easy, attainable and healthy recipes in under 30 minutes!
Watch the Recipe Tutorial
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