Vanilla Almond Granola – Crunchy, Homemade & Healthy Recipe
Breakfast sets the tone for the entire day, and a bowl of crunchy, flavorful Vanilla Almond Granola offers the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence. Packed with wholesome oats, toasted almonds, and a hint of vanilla, this granola combines natural sweetness with satisfying crunch. Unlike store-bought options often loaded with sugar and preservatives, homemade granola allows you to control ingredients, flavor, and texture, making it a healthier and more satisfying choice.
Whether sprinkled over yogurt, served with milk, or enjoyed straight from the jar as a snack, Vanilla Almond Granola provides sustained energy, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you feeling full and focused. Its warm, nutty aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, making it irresistible even before it hits your breakfast bowl. Perfect for meal prep or gifting, this recipe elevates simple oats and nuts into a versatile and delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients make approximately 6 cups of granola. Calorie counts are approximate per ingredient portion.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Old-fashioned rolled oats | 4 cups | 1,200 |
| Almonds (sliced or chopped) | 1 cup | 520 |
| Maple syrup or honey | ½ cup | 430 |
| Coconut oil (melted) | ¼ cup | 480 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 24 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Optional add-ins (raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips) | ½ cup | 200 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Coat oats and nuts: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all oats and almonds are evenly coated.
- Spread on baking sheet: Evenly distribute the mixture in a single layer on the prepared sheet.
- Bake the granola: Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Watch closely toward the end to avoid burning.
- Cool completely: Remove from oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet—it will crisp up as it cools.
- Add optional ingredients: Stir in dried fruit or chocolate chips once the granola is fully cooled.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Nut swaps: Use walnuts, pecans, or cashews instead of almonds.
- Sweetener variations: Agave syrup or brown rice syrup can replace maple syrup or honey.
- Spice it up: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Extra crunch: Include seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or chia seeds.
- Chocolate lovers: Mix in mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking.
- Gluten-free: Ensure rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (Per ½ Cup Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle over yogurt or smoothie bowls for a wholesome breakfast.
- Serve with milk or plant-based milk as a crunchy cereal.
- Use as a topping for ice cream, chia pudding, or baked fruit desserts.
- Pack in small jars or bags as a portable snack for work, school, or travel.
Vanilla Almond Granola
6 cups
servings10
minutes20
minutes140
kcalIngredients
4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup almonds (sliced or chopped)
½ cup maple syrup or honey
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
Optional add-ins: ½ cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet—it will crisp as it cools.
- Stir in optional add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips once cooled.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Avoid overmixing: Stir gently to keep clusters intact and ensure even coating.
Use gluten-free oats if needed to make the granola safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Optional add-ins: Add dried fruit or chocolate chips after baking to prevent burning or melting.
FAQs
1. Can I make this granola gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the granola is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely. Walnuts, pecans, cashews, or a mix of your favorite nuts work well in place of almonds.
3. Can I make this granola without sweeteners?
Yes, but the granola will be less sweet and less golden. You can also reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey for a lower-sugar version.
4. How should I store homemade granola?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate or freeze it.
5. Can I add dried fruits or chocolate?
Yes! Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips after baking to prevent them from burning or melting.
6. Can I make granola in small batches?
Yes, simply halve or quarter the recipe. Baking time may be slightly shorter, so check for golden-brown edges.
Conclusion
Vanilla Almond Granola combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a versatile, crunchy, and naturally sweet snack. Its homemade freshness, customizable flavor, and nutritional benefits make it perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting. By preparing granola at home, you gain control over sugar, fats, and flavors, resulting in a treat that’s satisfying, energizing, and utterly delicious. A batch of this granola ensures that every morning starts with flavor, crunch, and a boost of wholesome goodness.
