This recipe is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious way to start your day. Our vanilla almond granola combines the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, crunchy almonds, and aromatic vanilla, with a hint of cinnamon for extra warmth. The sweetener of choice in this recipe is pure maple syrup, which provides a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors perfectly. The addition of coconut oil contributes to the delightful crispy texture we all love in granola, while also providing a dose of healthy fats.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in pantries, you might want to pay special attention to the pure maple syrup, almond extract and coconut oil. Maple syrup is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, providing not just sweetness but also a distinct flavor that pairs perfectly with the oats and almonds. Almond extract, available in the spice section of grocery stores, adds a deeper, nutty flavor that enhances the almonds. Lastly, coconut oil, found in the oil aisle, contributes to the crispiness of the granola while adding a subtle tropical twist.
Ingredients for Vanilla Almond Granola
Old fashioned rolled oats: These are whole oats that are rolled to flatten, which makes them perfect for granola due to their hearty, chewy texture.
Almonds: These add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the granola, not to mention a boost of protein and healthy fats.
Ground cinnamon: This warm, sweet spice adds depth of flavor to the granola.
Salt: A touch of salt enhances the other flavors in the granola.
Pure maple syrup: This natural sweetener provides the perfect touch of sweetness while also helping to bind the granola together.
Coconut oil: This oil adds a subtle hint of coconut flavor and helps to crisp up the granola as it bakes.
Almond extract: This extract intensifies the almond flavor in the granola.
Pure vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a lovely, warm flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
One reader, Glynn Mcknight says:
This vanilla almond granola recipe is a game-changer! The blend of vanilla and almond creates a delightful aroma and the granola turns out perfectly crunchy. It's a great addition to my morning routine, and the flavors are just heavenly. I can't get enough of it!
Techniques Required for Making Vanilla Almond Granola
How to prepare the granola mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and coconut oil until well combined. Then, whisk in the almond and vanilla extracts until fully incorporated.
How to bake the granola: Spread the granola mixture onto a prepared baking sheet and bake at 300 degrees F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
How to cool the granola: Allow the baked granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. The cooling process will help the granola achieve a crunchy texture.
How To Make Vanilla Almond Granola
Easy and vegan-friendly, this vanilla almond granola is a crunchy, loaded snack. It’s sweetened with maple syrup with a hint of cinnamon spice.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2½cupsold fashioned rolled oats
- ¾cupalmonds,slivered or sliced
- ½tspground cinnamon
- ⅛pinchsalt
- ½cuppure maple syrup
- ¼cupcoconut oil,melted
- ¼tspalmond extract
- 1tbsppure vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Toss the oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
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In a medium bowl, whisk the maple syrup and coconut oil together until combined.
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Whisk in the almond and vanilla extracts. Pour over the oats and toss to coat. Make sure all of the oats are moistened.
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Spread onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
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Allow granola to cool completely – the air will help the granola obtain a crunchy texture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 761.98kcal
- Fat: 40.64g
- Saturated Fat: 17.82g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.28g
- Carbohydrates: 89.30g
- Fiber: 10.97g
- Sugar: 34.85g
- Protein: 16.74g
- Sodium: 15.26mg
- Calcium: 185.91mg
- Potassium: 620.81mg
- Iron: 4.53mg
- Vitamin A: 0.07µg
- Vitamin C: 0.02mg
Key Technique Tip for Perfect Vanilla Almond Granola
To ensure your granola achieves the perfect crunch, it's crucial to spread it evenly on your baking sheet before placing it in the oven. If the granola is piled too high in certain areas, it may not bake evenly and could result in some pieces being undercooked while others are overdone. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture out can help achieve a uniform layer. Additionally, stirring the granola every 15 minutes during baking promotes even toasting and prevents the edges from burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Granola Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time when you're ready to make the granola.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the almonds quickly and evenly, saving time and effort compared to chopping by hand.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch of granola and store it in an airtight container for future use, saving time on preparation in the future.
Set a timer: Use a timer to remind you to stir the granola every 15 minutes, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it bakes.
Invest in quality tools: Quality tools such as a silicone baking mat can make cleanup easier and quicker, saving time and effort in the long run.
Substitute Ingredients For Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe
old fashioned rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor to the granola.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a creamy and slightly sweet alternative to almonds, adding a rich and buttery flavor to the granola.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a warm and aromatic substitute for cinnamon, adding a slightly different but complementary flavor to the granola.
pure maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener alternative to maple syrup, providing a slightly different flavor profile to the granola.
coconut oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a neutral-flavored substitute for coconut oil, providing a healthy fat alternative for the granola.
almond extract - Substitute with coconut extract: Coconut extract can be used to infuse a tropical and nutty flavor into the granola, replacing the almond extract with a different but equally delicious essence.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can be used to impart a rich and sweet maple flavor to the granola, replacing the vanilla extract with a different but complementary essence.
Best Way to Present This Granola Recipe
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the granola in a neat and visually appealing manner, ensuring each component is showcased beautifully.
- Incorporate texture: Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds on top of the granola to provide a delightful crunch and enhance the overall texture.
- Utilize contrast: Pair the granola with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt to create a contrast in both flavor and appearance.
- Garnish with fresh fruits: Adorn the dish with a selection of vibrant, seasonal fruits such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle with honey: Finish the presentation with a delicate drizzle of honey, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Vanilla Almond Granola
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's great for making nut butters, grinding nuts, and mixing dough.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, and is used for a wide range of cooking and baking tasks.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet, also known as a cookie sheet, is a flat, metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. It provides a flat surface for even heat distribution and is often lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It's commonly used for mixing dry ingredients, whisking eggs, and creating smooth batters and sauces.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking. They come in various sizes and are used to measure both liquid and dry ingredients.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper that is used to line baking sheets and pans. It prevents food from sticking to the pan and makes for easy cleanup.
Silicone baking mat: A silicone baking mat is a non-stick baking surface made of silicone. It can be used to line baking sheets and pans, providing a reusable and easy-to-clean alternative to parchment paper.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It provides consistent and controlled heat for cooking a wide variety of dishes.
How To Store and Freeze Homemade Granola
Allow the granola to cool completely before storing. This will help maintain its crunchy texture and prevent clumping.
Store the cooled granola in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep out moisture and maintain freshness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the granola for up to 3 months:
- Place the cooled granola in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
- Press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date of freezing for easy reference.
To thaw frozen granola, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let it come to room temperature. There's no need to reheat it, as the granola will retain its texture and flavor.
If you notice the granola losing its crunch over time, you can refresh it by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let it cool completely before storing again.
To add variety, consider mixing in dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to the cooled granola before storing. This will give you different flavor combinations to enjoy throughout the week.
How To Reheat Leftover Granola
To reheat leftover vanilla almond granola, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the granola is warm and slightly toasted. This method will help restore the granola's crunchiness and bring out the flavors of the almonds and vanilla.
Another option is to reheat the granola in a skillet on the stovetop. Place the granola in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Stir constantly for 3-5 minutes until the granola is warm and fragrant. Be careful not to overheat the granola, as it can burn quickly. This method is faster than the oven and allows you to control the heat more easily.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use the microwave. Place the desired amount of granola in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the granola is warm and slightly crispy. Be cautious not to overheat the granola, as it can become soggy or burn in the microwave.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the granola with a bit of moisture. Place the granola in a bowl and sprinkle a small amount of water or almond milk over it. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and microwave for an additional 15 seconds if needed. The moisture will soften the granola slightly while still maintaining some of its crunchiness.
Random Fact About Vanilla Almond Granola
Granola is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be eaten as a cereal with milk, sprinkled over yogurt, or even used as a topping for desserts such as ice cream. Its crunchy texture and sweet flavor make it a popular choice for a quick and nutritious snack.
Is Making Granola at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this vanilla almond granola recipe is quite high. The main ingredients, such as rolled oats and almonds, are relatively affordable and can be bought in bulk. The addition of maple syrup and coconut oil may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. Considering the nutritional value and versatility of granola, this recipe is a good investment for a household. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12.
Is Vanilla Almond Granola Healthy or Unhealthy?
The vanilla almond granola recipe is a relatively healthy option for a snack or breakfast cereal. It contains several nutritious ingredients, such as:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates
- Almonds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener with some minerals and antioxidants
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe relies on maple syrup and coconut oil for sweetness and binding, which can add significant amounts of sugar and saturated fat when consumed in large quantities.
- The recipe lacks additional sources of fiber and protein, which could help balance the nutrient profile and keep you feeling full longer.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of maple syrup and coconut oil used, or replace some of the maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
- Add a scoop of protein powder or a handful of chia seeds to boost the protein content and provide additional nutrients.
- Incorporate dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, for natural sweetness and added fiber.
- Experiment with different nuts and seeds, like walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds, to vary the texture and nutrient profile.
- Add a handful of unsweetened coconut flakes for extra flavor and healthy fats.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Granola Recipe
This vanilla almond granola recipe is a delightful combination of wholesome oats, crunchy almonds, and warm vanilla and almond flavors. The use of pure maple syrup and coconut oil adds a delightful sweetness and richness to the granola. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a satisfying crunch and a delightful aroma. The addition of almond extract gives a unique twist to the traditional granola, making it a standout breakfast or snack option. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious granola option.
Enhance Your Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe:
This vanilla almond granola recipe is a must-try for all granola enthusiasts. The combination of almonds and pure maple syrup creates a delightful crunch and sweetness. The use of coconut oil and almond extract adds a rich and nutty flavor, while the pure vanilla extract enhances the aromatic profile. With the perfect balance of cinnamon and a pinch of salt, this recipe promises a delightful blend of flavors. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation process to achieve a delicious and wholesome granola that will elevate your breakfast or snack time.
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