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How to Make Homemade Granola with Chunks: An Easy Granola Recipe

Granola has become a beloved staple for breakfast and snacking alike. Whether sprinkled over yogurt, served with milk, or simply munched on as a healthy snack, the delightful crunch of granola is hard to beat. Making your own granola at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also means you can flavour it exactly to your liking. In this article, we will guide you through an easy recipe for homemade granola with delicious, chunky bits that will have you flavouring your kitchen with delightful aromas in no time.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• 120 ml (½ cup) of honey or maple syrup
• 60 ml (¼ cup) of coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 300 g (3 cups) of rolled oats
• 100 g (1 cup) of nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts), roughly chopped
• 75 g (¾ cup) of seeds (such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds)
• 100 g (1 cup) of dried fruit (optional – such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots), roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon of salt

For Chunky Granola

To achieve those coveted chunks, it’s essential to add a binding agent. You can do this by reserving part of the wet ingredients for later:

• Additional 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (for drizzling later)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the coconut oil is melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until all the oats and nuts are coated evenly. The mixture will be sticky, which is what you want to achieve those lovely chunks later on.

Step 5: Spread the Mixture

Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking tray. Press down gently with the back of a spoon or your hands to create a compact layer. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful clusters.

Step 6: Bake the Granola

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking. Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes; it should turn a golden brown colour.

Step 7: Drizzle for More Clusters

Once out of the oven, while the granola is still warm, drizzle the reserved honey or maple syrup over the surface. This extra sweetness will help bind the granola together even further, creating larger chunks.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking tray; it will harden as it cools. Once cooled, break it into clusters and stir in the dried fruit if using. Store your homemade granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Get Creative!

The beauty of homemade granola lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on your preferences. You can even add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a bit of warmth or toss in some dark chocolate chunks once the granola has cooled for a decadent treat.

Conclusion

Making your own chunky granola at home is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. With this easy recipe, you can tailor your granola to fit your dietary needs and personal tastes, all while enjoying the delightful crunch every morning. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a wholesome and delicious homemade treat! Happy munching!

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