I grew up on granola. My parents were all about making it from scratch (along with most things) and serving me big heaping bowls for breakfast. And I loved it! There is something so comforting in a bowl of granola – all these nutritive and delicious ingredients coming together into a sweet, salty, crunchy extravaganza.
I’ve kept up the family tradition of granola making, both for myself and sometimes as holiday gifts for friends. This is my tried and true recipe. It makes a delicious granola, but is also a nice base to throw in your favorite granola ingredients – maybe cacao nibs or shredded coconut? This is a great recipe to use creatively and try some experimentation.
Nuts & Seeds Granola Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup dried cherries (unsweetened)
1/4 cup molasses
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup olive or coconut oil
pinch of salt
Directions:
Mix the oats, nuts, seeds, and salt together in a large bowl.
On low heat mix molasses, maple syrup, and oil together in a small saucepan.
Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.
Spread out in a thin layer on a baking sheet and put in the oven at 250 degrees.
Cook for 40 minutes, checking every 10 minutes to mix well.
After 40 minutes the granola should be very aromatic and starting to brown nicely. Add in the raisins and dried cherries and turn off the oven. Put the granola (with the dried fruit) back in the warm oven to cook another 10 – 15 minutes as the oven cools.
Let the granola cool completely (out of the oven) before storing it in a glass jar.
Granola is a healthy addition to any diet, but it’s especially good for people who need to eat more nuts and seeds (almost everyone!). I often work with clients who understand that they need more healthy fats and plant-based protein from nuts and seeds, but just can’t seem to work them into their daily routine. Granola to the rescue! Add this granola to your morning oatmeal, top off a bowl of yogurt and fresh fruit, or grab a handful straight from the jar for a healthy, delicious, nut-filled snack. It also travels well, so it’s ideal for long car trips, post-gym munchies, or as a healthy snack to keep at your desk. Enjoy!
Zoe, this was yummy! Reminds me of Amy Chaplin’s recipe except for not having coconut, which I don’t really like. But why is it better to make my own than to buy one of the dozens of premade granolas? Is it less expensive? I didn’t price out the ingredients.
Hi Susan! I like to make my own granola for many reasons. Yes, I do think it is less expensive because you can buy ingredients in bulk, but perhaps more importantly you have ultimate control over what goes into your granola. Many of the pre made options are filled with sugar, which isn’t something I recommend. Plus I just like the process of making things myself whenever I can. Baking granola fills the house with the most wonderful smell, you can add all your favorite ingredients, and feel confident about what you’re eating. Let me know what you think if you give it a try!
I did and like it very much. I wish I could get it be even crunchier without burning it. Maybe less heat for longer? Or covering it for the first part? I was just curious about what other reasons you had for making it yourself. The scent is a great one! Have you done a nutritional breakdown of this recipe? If not I think I will, just to see how it compares to my favorite packaged version (Nature’s Path hemp plus granola).