Country Granola
A hearty, wholesome granola with toasted oats, coconut, nuts, and sweet raisins, perfect for breakfast or snacking, offering a delightful crunch and satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine oats, coconut, and chopped nuts in a large pan (11 x 15 inches). Bake at 300°F for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Melt margarine or butter in a medium-sized saucepan. Add brown sugar and honey. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Add wheat germ to the toasted oats mixture. Drizzle with the butter mixture and toss well.
- Bake the mixture at 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Add raisins and toss again.
- Press the mixture into a pan and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes.
- Cool completely and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut and a mix of nuts such as almonds and walnuts. You can substitute maple syrup for honey if you're looking for a vegan option. To enhance the granola's crunch, ensure the oats are well toasted before adding the wet ingredients, and feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Country Granola makes a delicious breakfast when paired with yogurt and fresh fruits or can be enjoyed as a snack on its own. It also pairs beautifully with Pudding And Jello Salad for a delightful dessert. For added sweetness, drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain its crunchiness, avoid refrigerating it. If you want to reheat, simply spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Granola contains roughly 1126 calories, with 9g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this granola gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free oats to make this granola suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the add-ins and sweeteners, are also labeled gluten-free.
How can I customize the mix-ins?
Feel free to personalize your granola by adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter touch. Just keep the total amount of add-ins similar to the original recipe to maintain the right texture.
Can I freeze the granola?
Absolutely! You can freeze the granola in an airtight container for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven to restore its crunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).