(Crunchy & Customizable)

 (Makes about 6 cups)

This homemade granola recipe is perfectly crunchy, lightly sweetened, and endlessly customizable. It’s easy to make and tastes far better than anything store-bought. It strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and chewy, with just the right amount of sweetness. The combination of oats, nuts, and seeds provides fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying snack or breakfast option. The customizable mix-ins let you tailor it to your taste.

Ingredients

Dry ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
• 1 cup nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup flaxseeds or chia seeds (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet ingredients

• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or olive oil (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins (Optional, after baking)

• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots, etc.)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or cacao nibs

Directions

Step 1: Preheat oven

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add wet ingredients

1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the maple syrup (or honey) and coconut oil until melted and combined.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread and bake

1. Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a thin layer.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
3. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning. It should be golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and add extras

1. Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
2. Once cooled, stir in any dried fruit or chocolate chips, if using.

Serving suggestions

• Sprinkle over yogurt or smoothie bowls.
• Serve with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Use as a topping for oatmeal or chia pudding.
• Enjoy as a snack straight from the jar!

Storage tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

This homemade granola is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. It’s so good, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought granola again.