We love how a simple bowl of homemade granola can transform your morning routine, blending the sweet warmth of vanilla with the satisfying crunch of almonds. This Vanilla Almond Granola recipe draws from classic health-food traditions, offering a nutritious twist that’s perfect for busy days or as a versatile snack.
In our kitchen, we’ve perfected this easy-to-make treat that packs flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re topping yogurt or enjoying it straight up, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table.
Ingredients
In our Vanilla Almond Granola recipe, we gather simple, nutritious ingredients that blend sweet vanilla notes with crunchy almonds for a homemade treat perfect for your busy mornings. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep specifics to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Rolled oats (old-fashioned): 4 cups – Use uncooked, whole oats as the base for that hearty texture we love in our granola.
- Sliced almonds: 1 ½ cups – Toasted lightly if desired, added next for their crunch and nutty flavor that complements the vanilla essence.
- Honey or maple syrup: ½ cup – Choose pure, organic honey for natural sweetness; this binds the mixture and is stirred in after the dry ingredients.
- Coconut oil: ⅓ cup – Melted for easy incorporation; it helps create those golden clusters we crave in every batch.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons – Opt for high-quality, pure vanilla to infuse aromatic warmth; added with the wet ingredients for even distribution.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – A subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor; mix in with the dry components for balance.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Just a pinch to bring out the natural tastes; keep it fine-grained for uniform blending.
- Optional add-ins (like dried cranberries or chia seeds): ½ cup – Stir these in last for extra texture and nutrition, making our granola even more versatile for toppings or snacking.
Equipment Needed
After selecting our wholesome ingredients for the Vanilla Almond Granola, we need the right tools to mix and bake this crunchy delight efficiently. Gathering the proper equipment ensures a smooth preparation process, allowing us to achieve that perfect golden-brown texture with ease.
Here’s a list of essential equipment, organized by category for clarity:
- Baking Essentials:
- Large baking sheet: We recommend a rimmed one to prevent spills and ensure even baking of our granola mixture.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: This helps line the baking sheet, making cleanup effortless and preventing the granola from sticking.
- Mixing Tools:
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining oats, almonds, and other ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Use this for stirring the mixture to coat everything evenly with vanilla and sweeteners.
- Measuring Tools:
- Set of measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s balance of flavors, so we suggest dry measuring cups for oats and liquids for oils and extracts.
| Equipment Item | Quantity Needed | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Large baking sheet | 1 | Baking the granola evenly |
| Parchment paper | 1 sheet | Lining to avoid sticking |
| Large mixing bowl | 1 | Mixing ingredients thoroughly |
| Spatula or wooden spoon | 1 | Stirring and folding components |
| Measuring cups and spoons | 1 set | Precise measurement of ingredients |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we can create our crunchy Vanilla Almond Granola with ease and confidence. Let’s walk through the steps to achieve a delightful mix of sweet vanilla flavors and nutty textures.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we preheat our oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking. In a large mixing bowl, we combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats, 1 cup sliced almonds, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt for a balanced base that ensures a hearty crunch.
Next, we prepare the wet ingredients in a separate small bowl by melting ¼ cup coconut oil in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until fully liquid. Then, we stir in ¼ cup honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that signature aromatic essence.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and use a spatula to mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. If we’re adding optional extras like ¼ cup dried cranberries or 1 tablespoon chia seeds, we fold them in now to enhance texture and nutrition. This step creates a fragrant blend that promises a satisfying, golden-brown finish.
Bake the Granola
Spread the prepared mixture evenly onto a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pressing it down gently with a spatula to form clusters that will crisp up beautifully.
We bake the granola in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even browning and prevent burning. Keep a close eye on it as the oats turn a rich golden brown and release an irresistible, nutty aroma that signals perfection—aim for a texture that’s delightfully crunchy yet not overly dark.
Cool and Store
Once baked, we remove the sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the clusters to harden and develop that satisfying snap we love in every bite.
After cooling, we break the granola into pieces and transfer it to an airtight container for storage. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or up to 1 month in the refrigerator, making it a versatile option for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this vanilla almond granola recipe and how it brings a touch of homemade goodness to your daily routine. It’s a simple way to fuel our mornings with wholesome flavors that keep us energized and satisfied.
As you whip up your next batch we’ll encourage you to make it your own with creative twists. This treat not only tastes amazing but also fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle so dive in and enjoy the benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vanilla Almond Granola?
Vanilla Almond Granola is a crunchy, nutritious homemade treat made from rolled oats, almonds, and vanilla flavors. It’s easy to prepare and versatile, ideal for breakfast toppings or snacks, adding a sweet and wholesome boost to your routine.
What ingredients are needed for Vanilla Almond Granola?
The main ingredients include rolled oats, sliced almonds, honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Optional add-ins like dried cranberries or chia seeds can enhance flavor and nutrition for a customized twist.
How do I make Vanilla Almond Granola?
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix dry ingredients like oats and almonds in a bowl, then stir in wet ingredients such as melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla. Spread on a baking sheet, bake for 20-25 minutes while stirring halfway, then cool to form clusters.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a large rimmed baking sheet for even baking, parchment paper for easy cleanup, a large mixing bowl, a spatula or wooden spoon, and measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts.
How long does Vanilla Almond Granola last?
When stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature or one month in the refrigerator, maintaining its crunch and flavor.
Can I customize the Vanilla Almond Granola recipe?
Yes, you can add extras like dried fruits, nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips before baking to suit your taste. Keep additions to about 1/2 cup to maintain the recipe’s balance and texture.
Is Vanilla Almond Granola healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with fiber from oats, protein from almonds, and natural sweetness from honey, making it a nutritious option for breakfast or snacks. It’s lower in added sugars if you use maple syrup and includes heart-healthy fats.