Granola
Crunchy, naturally sweet granola packed with oats, nuts, coconut, and dried fruits, perfect for breakfast or snacking. Its hearty texture and wholesome flavors appeal to health-conscious individuals and those seeking a nutritious, customizable cereal option to energize their day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine rolled oats, unsweetened coconut, sunflower seeds, and chopped nuts in a large bowl.
- In a blender, blend ripe bananas, pitted dates, and water until smooth.
- Mix the blended banana mixture into the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a jelly roll pan to a thickness of 1/2 inch.
- Bake at 200°F for 90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes until golden and almost dry.
- Turn off the oven and leave the pans inside to complete drying.
- Store the cooled granola in an airtight container.
- Optional: add wheat germ, bran, sesame seeds, and raisins for extra flavor and nutrition.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can substitute the bananas with applesauce for a different sweetness. If you're looking for a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with more seeds or puffed rice. Ensure to check the granola periodically while baking to avoid burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
Serving Suggestions
This granola pairs beautifully with yogurt and fresh fruits for a nutritious breakfast. You can also sprinkle it over smoothie bowls or enjoy it as a snack on its own. For a delightful treat, try adding it to a bowl of milk or serve it alongside Crock-Pot Apple Butter for a sweet touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider keeping it in the refrigerator or freezer. If you want to reheat, simply spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in a low oven for about 10 minutes to regain its crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granola contains roughly 1327 calories, with 19g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contributes 28g 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 use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats provide a better texture and chewiness, you can use quick oats in a pinch. Just be aware that the granola may not clump together as well and could bake faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this granola nut-free?
Yes, you can easily make this granola nut-free by replacing the chopped nuts with additional seeds like pumpkin or hemp seeds, or even puffed rice for crunch without the allergens. Just ensure to check all other ingredients for nut contamination.
How can I make the granola sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter granola, you can add a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar to the banana-date mixture before blending. Start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust to your taste.
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).