Yep, I’m sure some of you expected this. How could I have a food blog and not start with some delicious granola crunch? I almost named this blog “Confessions of a Granola Girl” until I realized someone had already snagged that site. Darn.
Granola is my favorite breakfast food, unfortunately. I say unfortunately because most granola isn’t meant to eat on a daily basis- it is high in sugar and fat (and therefore: tastes so delicious). Some of my favorite, somewhat-healthy brands include Northern Gold and Udis. Yet I have finally decided to begin making my own and since rolled oats have a ton of fiber, I vote that they are worthy of eating!
This recipe below makes some basic crunchy, individual-oat granola. I know some people prefer big chunks to snack on- so just up your sticky mixture with another few tablespoons of binding ingredients (honey, maple syrup, agave, any type of oil, etc. are mostly interchangeable).
Maple Almond Granola (4 cups)
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup slivered or chopped almonds
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons agave
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the vanilla, brown sugar, maple syrup, agave, and oil. Drizzle the wet ingredients into the bigger bowl and mix together with your hands (I promise, you’ll want to lick your fingers clean afterwards).
Spread the sticky oats out onto a baking sheet covered in parchment paper (or well oiled). Bake for around 20 minutes, stirring the oats on the baking sheet every 5-7 minutes. You will smell and see the granola browning once it is ready.
Let the granola sit out on the counter to cool completely- this is how it gets its crunch, as it will come out of the oven still somewhat soft. Once cool, stir in any additions you may want (dried cranberries, seeds, coconut, anything!) and store in an airtight container.
Happy crunching,
Marisa
Cory says
You should send some of this to your friends……. just saying….. <3
Marisa says
I’d rather come visit, then we could bake together! : ) But this recipe is super easy, you should try making it.