Homemade granola is a healthy and delicious treat. It can be a great alternative as a go-to snack when you are hungry. It packs on a lot of protein and the good kind of carbohydrates to be able to give your energy. Most of the granola you buy on stores is high on sugars and unhealthy fats and oil. Making it is also very easy, quick and since you have control on what goes into your granola, you can control the amount of sugar and quality of ingredients.
You can also switch up ingredients from time to time – from the kinds of nuts and dried fruits to the amount of sugar you add. Just remember that if you add dried fruit, lessen the sweetener by using honey, maple syrup, or agave. Always avoid white, highly processed sugars and artificial sweeteners–read the labels of the maple syrup and honey and make sure the only ingredients in the bottle are maple syrup (no corn syrup) or honey, respectively.
Instead of using other kinds of oil in your homemade granola, use a virgin coconut oil like Skinny Coconut Oil! Not only does it boost the number of health benefits in your granola, it also gives it a warm, nutty flavor to it - a perfect start to your day or an easy, healthy lunch while at work.
Ingredients
- 3 c. old fashioned oats
- 1 1/2 c. chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, sliced almonds)
- 1 1/2 c. coconut shavings (unsweetened)
- 1/4 c. seeds: sesame / flax / sunflower / pepita
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. sea salt (optional)
- 1/2 c. maple syrup or honey or agave nectar
- 1 large beaten egg white
- 1/4 c. Skinny Coconut Oil, barely warmed just enough to melt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 300°.
- In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients well.
- Spread out on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake granola, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown and dry, 40-45 minutes.
- Let cool on baking sheet (it will crisp as it cools).
Here are some cooking and serving tips:
- Homemade granola will taste burnt if you overcook it; keep it at a low temperature just for 8-10 minutes to let it come together.
- Swap maple syrup or honey for the agave to get a subtle flavor shift.
- You can add chocolate chips, dried cherries, cranberries, or blue berries if desired.
- It can be eaten directly from your hand like popcorn, but for added protein, serve over low-fat yogurt. Or layer it in a glass with yogurt and fresh fruit.
- Granola can be made 2 weeks ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.
About Skinny Coconut Oil
Great for cooking, our coconut oil is 100% raw. While the coconut oil is from the pristine jungles of Vietnam, we're located in the heart of America. Learn more about how we got started.