Family Favorite Granola
- Preparing Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Served Person: 14
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 4 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1 cup wheat germ (omit if gluten free is desired)
- 1-3/4 cups whole wheat flour (if making gluten free blend rolled oats in blender to make 1-1/4 c)
- 1-1/3 cup coconut
- c1/4 cup flax (optional) (i grind mine)
- 1/2 cup butter (i use coconut oil)
- 1 cup honey (or brown sugar or agave...if kids are going to be eating it i always add a little extra brown sugar even if using honey)
- 1/2 c water (apple juice can be used)
- 3/4 tsp cardamom
- 1-1/3 cups coarsely chopped almonds pecans or sunflower seeds (i use a combination)
- Carbohydrate 29.4988523970647 g
- Cholesterol 17.4303571650668 mg
- Fat 13.4050012034281 g
- Fiber 4.07428819531819 g
- Protein 5.47418607371004 g
- Saturated Fat 5.17316530357387 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (65g)
- Sodium 50.3439048235796 mg
- Sugar 25.4245642017465 g
- Trans Fat 0.967352048413019 g
- Calories 250 calories
My Family's Go-To Granola: A Recipe for Busy Mornings
As a busy mom of three, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a real challenge. But one thing I've always prioritized is breakfast. A good breakfast sets the tone for the whole day, fueling both my kids and myself for the adventures ahead. That’s where this Family Favorite Granola recipe comes in. It's simple, adaptable, and incredibly versatile, making it the perfect addition to any busy family's routine.
This granola recipe isn't just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly customizable. The beauty lies in its flexibility. I often adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand and my family’s current cravings. Sometimes we’re in a mood for a boost of cinnamon, other times we’re craving the nutty crunch of almonds and pecans. The base recipe is a solid foundation, but don’t hesitate to experiment!
The Magic of Adaptability:
One of my favorite things about this granola is how easily it can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences. For instance, if you're gluten-free, simply omit the wheat germ and blend the rolled oats to create a finer flour consistency. I've also experimented with various sweeteners. Honey provides a lovely sweetness, but brown sugar or agave nectar work just as well, and sometimes I like a combination! If you're watching your sugar intake, you can always reduce the amount of sweetener used, though I've found that a slight sweetness helps balance out the nutty and oaty flavors.
The kids' contribution. This is also the perfect project for getting the little ones involved. They love measuring out ingredients and helping to stir the granola while it’s baking. It's a fantastic way to instill good eating habits and teach them about healthy cooking from a young age. The act of creating something together brings a special sense of accomplishment and togetherness.
Beyond Breakfast:
This granola isn’t confined to breakfast bowls. Its versatility extends to a wide range of culinary uses. I often sprinkle it over yogurt parfaits, use it as a topping for ice cream, or even add it to trail mix for a healthy and satisfying snack on-the-go. The possibilities are truly endless!
Travel Companion: The best part about this granola is its portability and shelf-life. It stores beautifully in an airtight container, making it the perfect snack for road trips, picnics, or even a quick bite at the office. It's a much healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought granola bars or processed snacks.
Ingredients That Make a Difference:
The specific ingredients I use also contribute to the overall health profile. Rolled oats are an excellent source of fiber, contributing to satiety and aiding in digestion. The addition of nuts and seeds provides healthy fats and a wealth of nutrients. And don't underestimate the importance of spices like cinnamon and cardamom; they not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits.
More Than Just a Recipe:
This Family Favorite Granola isn't just a recipe; it's a tradition. It’s a symbol of nourishment, togetherness, and the simple joys of cooking and sharing with loved ones. It's a reminder that even in the midst of busy schedules, there's always time for a little homemade goodness. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious breakfast option, give this recipe a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen too!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crunch, toast the oats and nuts in a dry pan before adding them to the other ingredients.
- Experiment with different nuts and seeds to create your unique flavor combinations.
- Add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Enjoy creating your own delicious and healthy granola! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out and what variations you tried!
Step-by-step
- Mix second set of ingredients with dry ingredients until evenly distributed.
- Bake on 2 large cookie sheets that have been sprayed with pam.
- Bake at 300 degrees F, stirring every 15 mins for a total of 45 mins.
- Do not overbake.
- Just as taking out of oven add 2 cups of whatever additional dried fruits you want. (Craisins, raisins, pineapple, etc.)
- Cool and store in dry place.
