Granola is a timeless and versatile snack that’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or as a topping for yogurt or smoothies. Whether you’re looking for something hearty to start your day or simply want a healthy snack to munch on, this Vanilla Nut Granola Recipe is the answer. With its rich vanilla flavor, crunchy oats, and nutty texture, this homemade granola will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why This Vanilla Nut Granola is a Must-Try
Granola is more than just a crunchy treat—it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that offer numerous health benefits. Homemade granola lets you control the ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to the sugary, store-bought versions. This Vanilla Nut Granola brings together the sweetness of vanilla, the richness of various nuts, and the goodness of oats into a delicious combination that will leave you craving more.
Unlike store-bought granola, which can be filled with preservatives and unnecessary sugars, this recipe allows you to enjoy a natural, nutrient-dense snack or breakfast. It’s not only delicious, but it’s also customizable. You can tweak it based on your dietary preferences, whether you want to add dried fruits, seeds, or extra spices.
Simple Ingredients for a Flavorful Granola
One of the reasons people love making homemade granola is the simplicity of its ingredients. For this vanilla nut granola, you only need a few basic ingredients:
- Rolled oats: These are the base of your granola. Oats provide fiber and will keep you feeling full longer.
- Mixed nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch, protein, and healthy fats, making your granola more filling and nutritious.
- Honey or maple syrup: A natural sweetener that binds everything together and adds a touch of sweetness without being overpowering.
- Vanilla extract: The key ingredient that gives this granola its distinctive sweet flavor and aroma.
- Coconut oil: Helps the granola crisp up and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
- Cinnamon & sea salt: A pinch of each helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavors, and it only takes a few minutes of prep to have a batch of granola ready to bake.
How to Make Vanilla Nut Granola
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your granola will bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. The vanilla extract will provide that lovely flavor that makes this granola special.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, mixed nuts, cinnamon, and sea salt. These dry ingredients will create the bulk of your granola and add that satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Toss Together
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the oats and nuts are well coated with the honey and vanilla mixture, so the flavors will meld perfectly.
Step 5: Spread on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet in a single layer. This will help the granola bake evenly and prevent clumping.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through. You’ll know the granola is done when it turns golden brown and develops that delightful crunchy texture.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Once your granola is golden and crisp, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become even crunchier as it cools. Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Your Vanilla Nut Granola
The best part about granola is how versatile it is. Here are some tasty ways you can enjoy your vanilla nut granola:
- With Milk: Pour your favorite milk over a bowl of granola for a classic breakfast.
- With Yogurt: Add granola on top of yogurt for a quick, easy parfait. Add some fresh berries for extra flavor.
- On Its Own: Sometimes, granola is just best enjoyed by the handful! Carry a baggie of homemade granola for a wholesome snack on the go.
- In Smoothies: For extra texture and crunch, sprinkle granola on top of your smoothies.
Customizing Your Granola
One of the things that make granola so special is its customization options. You can personalize your recipe based on your taste and dietary needs. Consider adding or substituting ingredients like:
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or even dried apricots are great additions to granola. They give it a sweet, chewy contrast to the crunch.
- Chia or Flax Seeds: Add extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids to your granola for additional health benefits.
- Chocolate Chips: Want a sweeter granola? Mix in a handful of dark chocolate chips once the granola has cooled. The chocolate will melt slightly and create a treat everyone loves!
Conclusion
This Vanilla Nut Granola Recipe is the perfect combination of crunch, sweetness, and flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable to suit your tastes, and much healthier than store-bought alternatives. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack. Whether served with milk, yogurt, or eaten on its own, this granola is a treat everyone will enjoy. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself making batches again and again