Simple Granola
A crunchy, sweet, and nutty granola perfect for breakfast or snacking, packed with oats, dried fruit, nuts, and toasted to perfection for a wholesome treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except oil and honey in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix oil and honey together; pour over the oat mixture.
- Mix well to evenly coat the mixture.
- Spread the mixture into 2 (15 x 10 x 1-inch) baking pans.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 20 minutes, stirring once during baking.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- Store in a tightly covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower nuts with pumpkin seeds. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option, or use agave syrup for a lower glycemic index sweetener. Adjust the baking time based on your oven, keeping an eye out for a golden brown color as a sign of doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast, or sprinkle it over smoothie bowls for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with Overnight Cabbage Slaw for a refreshing lunch. You can also use it as a topping for desserts or as a snack on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing in a freezer-safe bag, which can keep it fresh for up to three months. To refresh, simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Granola contains roughly 2516 calories, with 16g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 245g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 14g 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 old-fashioned oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different. Quick oats will create a finer granola that may clump together more than old-fashioned oats, which provide a chewier texture.
How can I make this granola gluten-free?
To make this granola gluten-free, ensure that you use certified gluten-free oats. The other ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels for cross-contamination if you have severe gluten sensitivities.
What can I add to customize my granola?
You can customize your granola by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots, or seeds like chia or flaxseeds, can also enhance the nutritional profile and taste of your granola.
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).