Almond Cherry Granola Recipe: A Delicious Breakfast Treat
Hey y’all! Are you ready to shake up your breakfast routine with something crunchy, sweet, and satisfying? Our Almond Cherry Granola is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a versatile delight perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert toppings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- The perfect balance of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds.
- Easy to make with minimal prep time.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Nutritious and filling, keeping you energized throughout the day.
- Great for gifting in a mason jar for a thoughtful homemade present.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, raw almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Toss them well to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the coconut oil and honey together. Stir in the vanilla extract once melted and mix until combined.
Step 4: Mix and Bake
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is coated well. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even baking.
Step 5: Add the Cherries
Once the granola is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before mixing in the dried cherries.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Learn more about gluten-free living.
- If the granola clumps together too much, gently break it apart with your hands after it cools.
- Store granola in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Check storage guidelines here.
Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Granola: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips after baking.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Tropical Twist: Substitute cherries with dried mango and add shredded coconut.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Storage Instructions
Store your Almond Cherry Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
This granola pairs beautifully with Greek yogurt, over a bowl of warm oatmeal, or as a crunchy topping for ice cream.
Pro Tips
- Enhance the flavor: Toast the almonds before mixing to add depth of flavor.
- For a clumpier texture: Add an extra tablespoon of honey for more stickiness. See more tips here.
- Watch the bake time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your granola to prevent burning.
FAQ
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? While you can, it will alter the texture slightly, making it less chewy.
- How can I make this granola less sweet? Reduce the amount of honey or substitute with agave syrup for a milder taste.
- What can I substitute for coconut oil? Olive oil or melted butter can be used as alternatives.
