Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with a delightful twist on a classic? Our Breakfast or Snack Meal Prep Granola with Strawberries is not just any granola; it's a crunchy, sweet, and nutritious blend that will have you reaching for seconds! Perfectly balanced with wholesome oats, crunchy nuts, and the natural sweetness of honey or maple syrup, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to kickstart their day or enjoy a satisfying snack. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch that yields six servings, making it easy to prep ahead and enjoy throughout the week. Dive into this delicious recipe that promises to transform your mornings and keep you energized!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup dried strawberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped nuts, creating a dry base for the granola mixture.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) together for 30-45 seconds until they blend smoothly.
- Add vanilla extract and salt to the liquid mixture, whisking thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the oats and nuts, stirring carefully to ensure all dry ingredients are completely coated.
- Spread the granola mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring no clumping for consistent toasting.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Remove from oven when the granola turns golden brown and develops a crispy texture.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet, which helps it become crunchier.
- Once cooled, gently fold in the dried strawberries, distributing them throughout the granola.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, ensuring maximum freshness and crunch.
Tips
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to mix and match different nuts based on your preference. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans all work beautifully and add unique flavors to your granola.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet granola, reduce the quantity slightly or use unsweetened coconut flakes for added texture.
- Oven Watch: Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for that golden brown color around the 18-minute mark to prevent burning.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before storing. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunchiness!
- Mix-Ins Galore: Once your granola is ready, consider adding other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Use an airtight container to keep your granola fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. It also makes a fantastic gift for friends or family who love homemade treats!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
