Vanilla Granola: A Delicious and Healthy Breakfast Option

Vanilla Granola is not just a breakfast staple; it’s a delightful way to kickstart your day with a burst of flavor and nutrition. As someone who has always cherished the comforting aroma of freshly baked granola wafting through the kitchen, I can assure you that this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. The history of granola dates back to the late 19th century, when it was first created as a health food, and it has since evolved into a beloved snack enjoyed by many around the world.

People love Vanilla Granola for its perfect balance of crunchy texture and sweet, aromatic flavor. It’s incredibly versatile, making it an ideal topping for yogurt, a delicious addition to smoothies, or simply enjoyed by the handful as a wholesome snack. Plus, the convenience of making your own granola at home means you can customize it to suit your taste preferences, ensuring that every bite is just as you like it. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that celebrates the simple yet satisfying goodness of Vanilla Granola!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped
• 1 cup seeds (pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), optional

Preparing the Granola Mixture

Let’s get started on making this delicious vanilla granola! First, we need to prepare our granola mixture. Follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step as it ensures that our granola will bake evenly and become nice and crispy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut. Stir them together until they are well mixed. This combination of ingredients will give our granola a wonderful texture and flavor.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey (or maple syrup), coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture until the coconut oil is melted and everything is well combined. This will create a sweet and aromatic syrup that will coat our dry ingredients.
4. Once the syrup is ready, pour it over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together thoroughly. Make sure that all the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the syrup. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch!

Baking the Granola

Now that we have our granola mixture ready, it’s time to bake it. Here’s how:

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Use the back of your spatula to press it down slightly. This helps the granola clump together, which is what we want for those delicious clusters!
3. Bake the granola in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir the granola halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary, and we don’t want it to burn. You’re looking for a golden-brown color.
4. Once the granola is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to harden as it cools, creating those delightful crunchy clusters.

Adding Dried Fruit (Optional)

If you’d like to add some dried fruit to your granola, now is the time to do it. Here’s how:

1. Once the granola has cooled completely, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add in your choice of dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the granola clusters.
3. Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s so delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Now that our vanilla granola is ready, let’s talk about how to enjoy it:

1. Serve it with your favorite milk or yogurt for a wholesome breakfast. I love it with almond milk or Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit.
2. Use it as a topping for smoothie bowls. Just sprinkle a generous amount on top for added crunch and flavor.
3. Snack on it straight from the jar! It’s a great on-the-go snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
4. Mix it into your favorite baked goods, like muffins or pancakes, for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Tips for Customization

Conclusion:

In summary, this Vanilla Granola recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or snack game. The delightful combination of crunchy oats, sweet vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and energizing. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also allows for endless customization. You can add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to make it uniquely yours. For serving suggestions, I love enjoying my granola with a splash of cold milk or a dollop of yogurt topped with fresh berries. It also makes a fantastic topping for smoothie bowls or a delicious addition to baked goods like muffins and cookies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different flavorings, such as almond extract or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Vanilla Granola recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print