Maple Almond Granola Recipe
Granola is one of those quintessential breakfast staples that can transform your mornings from mundane to magnificent. The delightful combination of crunchy oats, nutty almonds, and the rich sweetness of maple syrup makes this Maple Almond Granola Recipe a must-try. Whether you’re enjoying it with yogurt, as a topping for smoothie bowls, or simply by the handful as an on-the-go snack, this granola will not only fill you up but also tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into the magic of making your own homemade granola that’s both wholesome and delicious!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own granola. Not only do you have control over the ingredients, but you can also customize it to fit your taste preferences. This Maple Almond Granola Recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a versatile addition to your pantry. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will keep for weeks, giving you a healthy breakfast or snack option whenever you need it. Plus, the aroma of baking granola wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup wheat germ
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 2 tbsp agave nectar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup raisins
Tools of the Trade
- Large mixing bowl: For combining your dry ingredients.
- Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal for even baking.
- Parchment paper: To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Spatula: For mixing and spreading the granola on the baking sheet.
- Oven: To toast your granola to perfection.
Maple Almond Granola Recipe — Do This Next
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure that your granola toasts evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, wheat germ, salt, and cinnamon. Stir them together until they are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, pure maple syrup, canola oil, agave nectar, and vanilla extract. Make sure to mix until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredient mixture over the dry ingredient mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything together until all the oats and nuts are well coated.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the granola mixture onto the sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing down slightly to ensure it clumps together as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the granola in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even toasting. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Add Raisins
Once the granola is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the raisins over the top, gently folding them into the warm granola.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Your homemade Maple Almond Granola is now ready to enjoy!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Nuts: Feel free to swap almonds for other nuts like walnuts or pecans based on your preference.
- Sweeteners: If you don’t have agave nectar, honey can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Oats: For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Fruits: You can replace raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.
If You’re Curious
Granola is not just a breakfast food; it can be a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Crumble it over salads for a delightful crunch, mix it into your favorite baking recipes for added texture, or even use it as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt parfaits. The possibilities are endless!
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Once your Maple Almond Granola has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, though it’s unlikely to last that long! If you want to enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it fresh out of the oven.
Popular Questions
Can I make this granola nut-free?
Absolutely! You can omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which will still add a nice crunch and nutrition.
How can I make my granola clumpier?
To achieve clumpier granola, be sure to press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking. The sticky wet ingredients will help bind the oats and nuts together as they bake.
Can I add chocolate to this granola?
Yes! You can fold in some mini chocolate chips after the granola has cooled. This will add a delicious chocolatey touch without melting the chips during baking.
Is it possible to double this recipe?
Definitely! Just ensure you have a larger baking sheet or bake in batches. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
The Last Word
Creating your own Maple Almond Granola is not only a fun kitchen project, but it also allows you to enjoy a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option. The combination of wholesome ingredients ensures that you’re fueling your body with what it needs, all while indulging in delightful flavors and textures. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can tweak it to suit your tastes, making it truly your own.
So, the next time you find yourself reaching for that store-bought granola, remember that making it from scratch is easier than you think, and the results are far superior. Your mornings will thank you!
Maple Almond Granola Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure that your granola toasts evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
- Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, wheat germ, salt, and cinnamon. Stir them together until they are evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, pure maple syrup, canola oil, agave nectar, and vanilla extract. Make sure to mix until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the wet ingredient mixture over the dry ingredient mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything together until all the oats and nuts are well coated.
- Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the granola mixture onto the sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing down slightly to ensure it clumps together as it bakes.
- Step 6: Bake to Perfection. Bake the granola in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even toasting. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Step 7: Add Raisins. Once the granola is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the raisins over the top, gently folding them into the warm granola.
- Step 8: Cool and Store. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Your homemade Maple Almond Granola is now ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to swap almonds for other nuts like walnuts or pecans based on your preference.
- If you don’t have agave nectar, honey can be used as a substitute.
- For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
