Homemade granola is a delightful and nutritious treat that has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The concept of granola was first introduced by Dr. James Caleb Jackson, a prominent early health food advocate, who created a cereal called “granula” in the 1860s. Later, John Harvey Kellogg, a physician and nutritionist, popularized a similar version known as “granola” at his Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan. The granola we know today gained widespread popularity during the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s when health-conscious individuals embraced its natural ingredients and versatility.
The flavor profile of homemade granola is incredibly diverse and customizable. It typically features a combination of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, sweeteners, and various spices. The beauty of making granola at home lies in the freedom to experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you prefer a nutty and hearty blend with almonds and pecans, or a fruity mix with dried cranberries and apricots, homemade granola can cater to a wide range of taste preferences.
Homemade granola has remained popular due to its outstanding nutritional value and convenience. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it offers a wholesome breakfast option or a satisfying snack. Additionally, its versatility allows it to be incorporated into various dishes, such as yogurt parfaits, smoothie bowls, or even as a topping for ice cream. As awareness about healthy eating continues to grow, more people have turned to homemade granola as a delicious and wholesome alternative to processed snacks.
Serving homemade granola is a breeze. It can be enjoyed simply with cold or warm milk, or sprinkled over yogurt for added crunch and flavor. For a more indulgent treat, try mixing it with honey or maple syrup and baking it into clusters, creating granola bars or bites. The possibilities are endless, and with the convenience of making it at home, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Homemade granola
Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ Cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ Cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ Cup pumpkin seeds
- ½ Cup honey
- ¼ Cup maple syrup
- ¼ Cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ Tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ Tsp salt
- 1 cup dried fruit e.g., raisins, cranberries, apricots, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almonds, pecans, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the honey, maple syrup, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and just heated through.
- Pour the warm liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the granola turns golden brown, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crisp as it cools.
- If desired, mix in the dried fruit after the granola has cooled.
