The Best and Easiest Homemade Granola

Granola is a beloved breakfast staple that is enjoyed by many around the world. While store-bought granola can be convenient, it often contains added sugars, preservatives, and other unwanted ingredients. The solution? Making your own granola at home! Not only is homemade granola simple to make, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.

Two key ingredients when making homemade granola:

Coconut oil

Maple Syrup

Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in many health-conscious kitchens, and for good reason. This versatile oil is high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are quickly metabolized by the body and converted into energy. This makes coconut oil a great choice for providing sustained energy throughout the day, without the blood sugar spikes and crashes that can result from consuming refined sugars. Additionally, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has been shown to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping to support a healthy immune system.

Maple syrup is another natural sweetener that is often used in homemade granola. Unlike refined sugars, which provide empty calories and contribute to a host of health issues, maple syrup contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, research has shown that maple syrup is a good source of zinc and manganese, two important minerals that play a role in immune function and energy metabolism. Maple syrup also contains polyphenols, which are plant compounds that have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

When combined, coconut oil and maple syrup create a delicious, nutritious base for homemade granola. It's SO easy and incredibly tasty.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup nuts (I used sliced almonds but you can use cashews, pecans, etc.)

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (I used sweetened because that's what I had - but unsweetened is great too)

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil (if you don't like a coconut taste get refined)

• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt.

3. In a small microwavable bowl, melt the coconut oil.

4. Pour the coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Spread the mixture out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes at 400° to crisp. Then remove from the oven and lower the heat to 200°. Stir the granola and place back into the oven until the granola is golden brown and fragrant (about 15 more minutes).

6. Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Enjoy your homemade granola with milk, yogurt, or fresh fruit for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack or add to a delicious trail mix like my Easter bunny bait trail mix, found HERE.

XOXO,

Kimberly Marie