Granola is one of those magical recipes that’s simple, wholesome, and endlessly customizable. Whether you sprinkle it on yogurt, enjoy it with milk, or snack on it straight from the jar, homemade granola always tastes fresher and crunchier than store-bought. The best part? You can make it in under 30 minutes with pantry staples. Today, we’ll walk you through simple steps to make the best granola recipe—perfect for breakfast or healthy snacking!
Why Make Granola at Home?
Healthier – You control the sugar and oil.
Customizable – Choose your favorite nuts, seeds, and add-ins.
Budget-Friendly – Big batch at a fraction of the store price.
Fresh & Crunchy – Straight from your oven to your table.
Essential Ingredients
3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick oats)
1 cup nuts/seeds (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
½ cup honey or maple syrup
⅓ cup coconut oil (or olive oil)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots—add after baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients – oats, nuts, coconut, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
Heat wet ingredients – warm honey/maple syrup with coconut oil until smooth. Stir in vanilla.
Combine – pour wet mixture over dry and mix until evenly coated.
Spread on baking sheet – press lightly for chunky clusters.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Cool completely before adding dried fruit. (Granola crisps as it cools!)
Creative Flavor Variations
Chocolate Granola – Stir in cocoa powder before baking and chocolate chips after cooling.
Tropical Granola – Add dried pineapple, mango, and coconut.
Peanut Butter Granola – Mix 2 tbsp peanut butter into the wet ingredients.
Spiced Granola – Add nutmeg, ginger, or pumpkin spice for warmth.
Pro Tips for the Best Granola
Don’t overbake – it will continue to crisp up as it cools.
For big clusters – press mixture down before baking and avoid stirring too much.
Store properly – keep in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
Make it snackable – mix with chocolate chunks or banana chips for a trail mix vibe.
Why This Granola Recipe Works
This recipe is simple, quick, and endlessly adaptable. With just a few pantry staples, you get crunchy, golden granola that’s healthier and tastier than anything in a bag. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy mornings or craving a crunchy snack, this recipe is a keeper.
Conclusion
Making homemade granola doesn’t have to be complicated. With these simple steps to make the best granola recipe, you’ll always have a fresh, crunchy, and healthy snack on hand. Try different mix-ins, play with spices, and make it your own. 🥣✨