Homemade granola is a delicious blend of toasted oats, warm spices, and dried fruits. Not only is it cost-effective and easy to make, but it also offers the perfect crunch to pair with yogurt, milk, or even as a topping for ice cream. With this recipe, you’ll know exactly what’s in your granola, and you can customize it however you like. For another sweet recipe with a satisfying crunch, check out our Blueberry Crisp.

A jar of granola with a wooden spoon, granola is scattered around the countertop.

Why Make Homemade Granola?

Granola is a classic combination of sweetened oats mixed with dried fruits like raisins or craisins. Making your own granola lets you control the ingredients, ensuring it’s free from unnecessary additives while allowing you to include your favorite flavors. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert topping, it is always a satisfying choice.

Tips for the Perfect Granola

  1. Oats: A mix of old-fashioned oats and quick oats creates the ideal texture. Old-fashioned oats add heartiness, while quick oats provide cohesion.
  2. Cinnamon: A couple of teaspoons bring warmth and depth of flavor.
  3. Sweeteners and Binders: Real maple syrup not only sweetens but helps hold the granola together. For added richness, coconut oil keeps the oats from becoming overly dry. Melt the coconut oil slightly for easier mixing, and don’t worry—it won’t leave a strong coconut flavor.
  4. Sugar Choice: Turbinado sugar, with its subtle molasses undertones, adds a gentle butterscotch-like flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, granulated sugar works as a fine substitute.
  5. Dried Fruit: Use raisins, craisins, or your favorite dried fruits for a touch of chewiness and sweetness. Alternatively, skip the dried fruit for a simpler mix.
A baking dish filled with homemade granola, a spoon is positioned in the dish ready to take out a serving.

Can You Make Granola in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! To use an air fryer, you’ll likely need to work in batches. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined rack or basket and cook at 300°F for about 15 minutes, stirring at least twice during the process. This method is faster but delivers the same delicious results.

Storing and Freezing Granola

Once cooled completely, store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to six months. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

You can also freeze your granola. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zippered bags. Label and date the containers. While granola can be frozen for several months, it’s best enjoyed within three months for optimal flavor and texture.

This is a pantry staple you’ll want to keep on hand. With its customizable ingredients and long shelf life, it’s perfect for busy mornings or satisfying snacks. Give this recipe a try—you’ll never go back to store-bought!

A jar of granola with a wooden spoon, granola is scattered around the countertop.

Granola

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Homemade granola is easy, cost-effective, crunchy, and delicious—perfect with yogurt, milk, or as an ice cream topping!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 2 cups quick-cooking oats
  • 2-4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • ½ cup coconut oil, melted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar, or turbinado sugar
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup dried fruit of choice, such as dried blueberries or pomegranate-flavored dried cranberries

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 250°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, quick-cooking oats, cinnamon, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, raisins, and your choice of dried fruit. Mix everything well to coat evenly.
  • Spread the mixture evenly onto the lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove from the oven and gently stir the granola to ensure even cooking.
  • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the granola is mostly dry and lightly golden.
  • Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan for at least one hour. This will allow it to crisp up as it cools.
  • Once cooled, store the granola in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

This recipe was inspired by Homemade Granola from iambaker.net

More Tasty Breakfast Options

Blueberry Crisp

Blueberry Crisp is packed with a delicious medley of fresh juicy blueberries, almonds, and oats. Serve it up warm with a dollop of your favorite yogurt or ice cream!

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