Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with a mouthwatering treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious? Meet your new favorite morning companion: Easy Maple Cinnamon Granola! This simple yet satisfying recipe combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and maple syrup with crunchy oats and nuts, making it the perfect start to your day. Whether you enjoy it by the bowlful with milk or sprinkled on top of yogurt, this granola is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will have your family begging for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to make your mornings a little sweeter!
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your granola will bake evenly and achieve a nice golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of your choice of nuts (such as almonds or walnuts), 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 1/2 cup of maple syrup together. Stir continuously until the coconut oil is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Pour the warm coconut oil and maple syrup mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the liquid.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to spread it out in an even layer to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even browning. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid burning, as granola can quickly go from golden to burnt.
- Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet. It will become crispier as it cools.
- If desired, mix in 1/2 cup of dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots) once the granola has cooled completely.
- Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast cereal, a topping for yogurt, or as a healthy snack.
Tips
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or even pecans can add unique flavors and textures to your granola.
- Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on your granola while it bakes. Stir it halfway through to ensure even browning, and check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for an extra flavor kick. A pinch of salt can also enhance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Dried Fruit Delight: If you love a touch of sweetness, add dried fruit after the granola has cooled. This prevents the fruit from becoming too hard during baking.
- Storage Savvy: Store your granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy. It can last for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your granola as a breakfast cereal, a topping for smoothies, or a healthy snack on the go. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
