Healthy Granola Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a crunchy, wholesome snack or a vibrant breakfast topper, this Healthy Granola Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Packed with nuts, seeds, and naturally sweet dried fruits, it’s a delicious way to fuel your day with nutrient-dense ingredients. Plus, it’s super simple to make at home, giving you full control over what goes into your granola bowl. Ready to mix up a batch that’s both satisfying and nourishing? Let’s dive right in.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Healthy Granola Recipe checks all the boxes: it’s crunchy, naturally sweetened with honey and dried fruit, and bursting with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. It’s perfect for breakfast with yogurt or milk, sprinkled on smoothie bowls, or even as a quick snack straight from the jar. I love that it’s easy to tweak based on what you have in your pantry, plus it avoids any unnecessary additives or refined sugars. Making granola at home means you can customize every bite to your liking while knowing it’s made with quality ingredients.

What’s in the Bowl

• 2 cups rolled oats – The hearty base that provides fiber and whole grains.
• 1 cup shredded coconut – Adds a subtle tropical flavor and chewy texture.
• 3/4 cup slivered almonds – A crunchy source of healthy fats and protein.
• 1/2 cup pepitas (shelled pumpkin seeds) – Nutrient-rich seeds that boost magnesium and zinc.
• 1/4 cup flax seeds – A great plant-based omega-3 source and added fiber.
• 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter – Helps everything crisp up beautifully; I prefer coconut oil or unsalted butter.
• 3 tablespoons honey – Natural sweetness that lightly caramelizes the granola.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup dried cherries – Tart and chewy, these bring a burst of fruity flavor.
• 1/2 cup golden raisins (or black raisins) – Naturally sweet and chewy, perfect for a touch of extra sweetness.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large mixing bowl – To combine all your dry and wet ingredients evenly.
• Baking sheet – For spreading out the granola so it bakes evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accuracy in your ingredient amounts.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To mix and fold your granola gently.
• Oven – For toasting the granola to golden, crunchy perfection.

Healthy Granola Recipe, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, slivered almonds, pepitas, and flax seeds. Toss them together so they’re well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the oil (or melted butter), honey, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will coat the oats and nuts, helping everything stick and crisp up evenly.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use your wooden spoon or spatula to stir everything until the oats and nuts are fully coated with the honey and oil mixture.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Spread the granola mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning and ensure an even golden color.

Step 6: Add the Dried Fruit

Once the granola is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet — this helps it crisp up further. After it’s cool, stir in the dried cherries and golden raisins.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

Transfer your homemade granola to an airtight container. It’s ready to eat immediately or can be stored for up to two weeks. Enjoy it sprinkled over yogurt, with milk, or as a crunchy snack.

Smart Substitutions

• Rolled oats: Use gluten-free oats if you need a gluten-free version.
• Shredded coconut: Swap with chopped nuts or leave it out if you prefer.
• Slivered almonds: Substitute with walnuts, pecans, or cashews for a different nutty flavor.
• Pepitas: Sunflower seeds work great as an alternative.
• Honey: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.
• Dried cherries and raisins: Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots for variety.
• Oil or butter: Coconut oil is an excellent plant-based fat that adds a subtle flavor.

Cook’s Notes

• For chunkier granola clusters, press the granola down gently on the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too often.
• If you prefer a less sweet granola, reduce the honey by a tablespoon or more to suit your taste.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon can add a lovely warm spice twist.
• Make sure your granola cools completely before storing to keep it crisp and fresh longer.

How to Store & Reheat

Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for about two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the fridge for up to a month or freeze it for up to three months. To refresh granola that has softened, simply toast it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until it crisps back up.

Common Qs About Healthy Granola Recipe

Can I make this granola nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the almonds and substitute with extra seeds like sunflower or additional pepitas. You can also add more shredded coconut or oat clusters to keep the texture interesting.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make this recipe vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar and use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead of regular butter.

How do I prevent my granola from burning?

Keep a close eye on your granola during the last 5-10 minutes of baking and stir it halfway through the baking time to promote even toasting. Lowering the oven temperature slightly can also help if you notice it browning too quickly.

Can I add protein powder or other supplements?

Yes! Stir in a few tablespoons of your favorite protein powder after baking and cooling the granola to avoid burning the powder. You can also mix in chia seeds or hemp seeds before baking for an extra nutrient boost.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Banana Nut Butter Oatmeal – A warm and comforting breakfast packed with flavor.
• Healthy Honey Oat Muffins – Perfect for on-the-go mornings or a sweet snack.
• Easy 5-Ingredient Chia Pudding – A simple, nutritious, and creamy treat.
• Overnight Oats with Mixed Berries – A no-cook breakfast that’s ready when you are.

Let’s Eat

There’s something so satisfying about a bowl of crunchy, sweet, and wholesome granola. This Healthy Granola Recipe is perfect for those who want to savor every bite without any guilt. Whether you sprinkle it over yogurt, enjoy it with your morning milk, or snack on it straight from the jar, it’s a delicious way to add a little crunch and nutrition to your day. Grab a spoon, dig in, and enjoy the good vibes that come with homemade goodness.

Happy baking and happy snacking!

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