Granola has always been a popular choice for breakfast and snacking due to its healthy ingredients, delicious taste, and crunchy texture. Known to be rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it is a versatile staple that can be customized to your taste preferences. In this article, we will explore three different ways to make granola that will cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

1. Classic Oat-based Granola

Ingredients:

– 4 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.)

– 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

– A pinch of sea salt

– Optional: 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut.

3. In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, mix together the honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil or olive oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt.

4. Pour the liquid mixture over the oat mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.

5. Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Stir the mixture halfway through cooking time.

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before adding any dried fruits if desired.

8. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

2. Grain-Free Nut and Seed Granola

Ingredients:

– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.)

– 1 cup mixed seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.)

– 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– A pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Follow the same procedure as making the Classic Oat-based Granola. This grain-free alternative swaps in nuts and seeds for rolled oats and will provide a dense, crunchy texture.

3. Chocolate Chunk Granola

Ingredients:

– 4 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.)

– 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

– 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– A pinch of sea salt

– Optional: dark chocolate chunks or chips

Instructions:

1. Simply add cocoa powder to the classic oat-based granola recipe in the dry ingredients mixture and follow the regular method.

2. Let it cool completely and add dark chocolate chunks or chips if desired.

These recipes for making granola provide three delightful ways to satisfy your cravings while ensuring wholesome and healthy ingredients. Experiment with additional mix-ins like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or different spices for a more diverse flavor profile. Regardless of whether you enjoy it with milk, yogurt, or by the handful; granola is sure to become a favorite snack in your home!