If we’re honest, store-bought granola often disappoints. It’s expensive, packed with excess sugar, and filled with preservatives you can’t pronounce. Making your own at home solves these problems while giving you complete control over the ingredients you consume. Not to mention, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of toasting oats and nuts — a simple pleasure that mass-produced versions simply can’t replicate.

The process is remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal prep work and about 30 minutes of your time. With basic pantry ingredients, you can create a batch that lasts for weeks. Homemade granola transitions effortlessly from breakfast with yogurt to afternoon snack, making it a versatile addition to your meal prep routine. It travels well too, perfect for those mornings when breakfast needs to happen on the go.

Perhaps what makes homemade granola truly satisfying is the freedom to experiment. You can adjust everything from sweetness levels to mix-ins, creating combinations tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re drawn to classic flavor profiles or interested in more adventurous blends, the formula remains adaptable. Each batch becomes an opportunity to refine your personal recipe.

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How to Make Your Own Granola

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans or a mix)
• 1/2 cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, flax or chia)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
• Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup coconut flakes, chocolate chips or cacao nibs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nuts, seeds, salt and cinnamon.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the oil and honey or maple syrup until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
6. Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet (this is when it gets crispy).
9. Once cooled, mix in the dried fruits and any other add-ins.
10. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips for Perfect Granola

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – use two if necessary for even cooking.
• For chunkier granola, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
• Always add dried fruits after baking to prevent burning.
• Let the granola cool completely before storing to maintain crispness.