Homemade Granola With Pumpkin Seeds, Honey Cranberries

Homemade granola with pumpkin seeds and honey cranberries is a healthy, customizable snack. It starts with ingredients like old-fashioned oats, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries. Mix honey, oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to create a coating. Combine and bake for one hour, stirring every 20 minutes. This method guarantees even baking and a delightful aroma. Store the finished granola in an airtight container for freshness. Tips for variations and adjustments are available for further exploration.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

Why would someone choose to make homemade granola? Many individuals appreciate the control it provides over ingredients. They can customize flavors, sweetness, and texture to suit personal preferences.

Homemade granola is often healthier than store-bought options, avoiding unnecessary additives and preservatives. Additionally, the process is straightforward, requiring only a few key ingredients.

It allows creativity; one can experiment with various nuts, seeds, and fruits. This recipe is also cost-effective, often saving money in the long run.

Finally, preparing granola at home can be a rewarding experience, offering a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when sharing with family and friends.

Recipe

Making homemade granola is a delicious and rewarding experience that allows you to customize your snack or breakfast to suit your taste preferences. By combining wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, you can create a nutritious blend that is both satisfying and versatile.

This granola can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a topping for yogurt, a quick snack on its own, or even as a delightful addition to your favorite desserts. The beauty of homemade granola lies in its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients to create your perfect mix, whether you prefer different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

The aroma of the granola baking in the oven will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving into the final product. Follow this simple recipe to whip up a batch of delicious homemade granola that you can enjoy for weeks to come.

Ingredients

• Old Fashioned Oats
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Pecans
• Dried Cranberries
• Chocolate Chips
• Honey
• Oil
• Brown Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla Extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for baking the granola.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, pumpkin seeds, and pecans. Stir these dry ingredients to guarantee they are evenly mixed.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together honey, oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture, and stir thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are coated evenly.
5. Spread the granola mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for one hour, stirring every 20 minutes to guarantee even baking and to prevent soggy clumps.
6. Once the granola is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters.
7. Once cooled, mix in the dried cranberries and chocolate chips, then store the granola in an airtight container for freshness.

Extra Tips

For the best results, remember to stir the granola during baking and cooling to avoid clumping. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your own unique blend.

For added flavor, consider using alternative extracts like almond or coconut. Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of honey or brown sugar according to your preference. Enjoy your homemade granola as a quick snack, or use it to enhance your breakfast and desserts!

Final Thoughts

The satisfaction of creating homemade granola can be a rewarding experience for anyone seeking a healthier snack option.

This simple recipe allows for customization, enabling individuals to choose their preferred nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Proper storage in an airtight container guarantees freshness for weeks.

It serves multiple purposes: as a topping for yogurt, a cereal alternative, or a quick snack. By following the instructions carefully and adjusting sweetness to taste, anyone can enjoy this nutritious treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Old-Fashioned Oats?

The question about substituting quick oats for old-fashioned oats highlights a common concern. Quick oats will yield a softer texture and may not provide the same crunch, affecting the overall granola experience. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How Long Does Homemade Granola Last?

Like a fleeting moment in time, homemade granola typically lasts about two weeks when stored in an airtight container. To preserve its freshness longer, refrigeration is advisable, extending its life up to a month.

Can I Substitute Maple Syrup for Honey?

The question of substituting maple syrup for honey arises frequently. In most recipes, maple syrup can effectively replace honey, offering a similar sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Approximately 1 in 133 people are affected by gluten sensitivity. This recipe can be gluten-free if certified gluten-free oats are used, ensuring it meets dietary restrictions while still providing a nutritious and tasty option.

What Can I Add for Extra Protein?

To enhance protein content, one could incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts, seeds such as chia or hemp, or protein powder. Greek yogurt or nut butter can also be added for a nutritious boost.