Introduction
This delightful granola recipe combines wholesome ingredients, creating a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option. With rolled oats, coconut flakes, and a medley of nuts and seeds, this homemade granola is perfect for topping yogurt or enjoying with milk. The added touches of dried tart cherries and optional chocolate chips offer the right amount of sweetness and flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1 cup coarsely chopped pistachios
– 1/3 cup pepitas
– 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 3 teaspoons kosher salt
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings
To prepare the granola, start by preheating your oven and mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Melt the butter to a golden brown, combining it with the sweeteners and oil before combining everything together. Bake until the granola becomes crispy, then cool and mix in cherries and chocolate. Store in an airtight container for a delightful treat any time of day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, unsweetened coconut flakes, coarsely chopped pistachios, pepitas, and ground flaxseed until well combined.
Step 3: Melt Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Cook, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Add Sweeteners
To the browned butter, add the brown sugar, maple syrup, and olive oil. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 7: Bake Granola
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the granola from the oven, stir thoroughly to promote even baking, and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown and crisp.
Step 8: Cool the Granola
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 9: Add Fruits and Optional Ingredients
After the granola has cooled, add the dried tart cherries and, if desired, the chocolate chips. Mix gently to combine.
Step 10: Store Granola
Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for optimal freshness.
Notes
Substitutions
Feel free to replace pistachios and tart cherries with your favorite nuts and dried fruits for a personalized granola blend.
Storage
Ensure that the granola is completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture accumulation.
Serving Suggestions
Granola can be enjoyed on its own, with milk, or as a topping for yogurt and smoothies.
Customization
Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor, if desired.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Before you start baking, it’s important to preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Set it to 325°F (163°C) for optimal results with granola.
Melting Butter
Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Watch for it to turn golden brown, which adds a rich flavor and nutty aroma to your granola.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Combine rolled oats, coconut flakes, pistachios, pepitas, and ground flaxseed thoroughly in a large bowl. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures.
Combining Wet Ingredients
After browning the butter, mix in brown sugar, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth. This mixture acts as the binding agent for your dry ingredients.
Baking Granola
Spread the granola mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Stir halfway through to promote even browning and crispness.
Cooling the Granola
Once baked, let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture, as it continues to harden as it cools.
Storing Granola
Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it fresh and ready for snacking or topping.
FAQ
Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or another plant-based oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How can I make this granola gluten-free?
Ensure that the rolled oats and any other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
Can I add other nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate any nuts or seeds you enjoy or have on hand, just keep the proportions similar.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup, but this will alter the flavor slightly.
How long can I store the granola?
Properly stored in an airtight container, the granola can last up to two weeks at room temperature.
Conclusion
This granola recipe is a delightful blend of oats, nuts, and fruits, providing a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option. The combination of toasted coconut, crunchy pistachios, and tart cherries makes for a satisfying treat that can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether enjoyed by the handful or with yogurt, this homemade granola is sure to be a favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Nutty Quinoa Granola
Substitute rolled oats with cooked quinoa, and add chopped almonds and walnuts for additional crunch. Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Fruit & Nut Energy Bites
Combine the granola mixture with peanut butter and oats to form bite-sized energy balls. Add chopped dried apricots and a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra boost.
Chocolate-Coconut Bars
Press the granola mixture into a baking dish, adding double the chocolate chips and a layer of melted chocolate on top. Refrigerate until set, then cut into bars.
Spiced Pumpkin Granola
Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the wet mixture for a seasonal twist. Add sunflower seeds and dried cranberries for a burst of flavor and color.
Cinnamon Apple Granola
Fold in dried apple pieces and cinnamon into the granola for a comforting, sweet variation. Serve with yogurt and fresh apple slices.
