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Five Ingredient Vanilla Granola: A Simple Delight

Granola has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of breakfast enthusiasts across the globe. This versatile dish is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch, making it an ideal start to the day. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort, look no further than this Five Ingredient Vanilla Granola.

Why Granola?

Granola is a delightful blend of oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners, typically enjoyed as a topping for yoghurt or consumed with milk. The joy of making your own granola lies in the control you have over the ingredients—no preservatives, no hidden sugars, just wholesome goodness. Plus, it’s an excellent way to reduce food waste, using up those bits and bobs from your pantry.

Ingredients

This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, requiring only five essential ingredients:

1. Rolled Oats: The foundation of your granola, rolled oats provide fibre and a hearty texture.
2. Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds distinctive flavour and binds the granola together.
3. Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle nuttiness while also helping to crisp up the granola.
4. Vanilla Extract: A splash of this makes all the difference, lending a beautiful aroma and flavour.
5. Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavour.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 150°C (300°F). This low temperature will ensure an even, gentle bake, allowing the oats to crisp up without burning.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 300g of rolled oats with a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 100ml of maple syrup with 60ml of melted coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture over the oats and stir well until all the oats are evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake

Spread the mixture out evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure the granola browns evenly. Keep an eye on it towards the end—if it begins to darken too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once golden brown and fragrant, remove the tray from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial, as it allows the granola to become crunchy. Once cool, break it into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Your homemade granola will keep well for up to two weeks—although it’s unlikely to last that long!

Serving Suggestions

This Five Ingredient Vanilla Granola is incredibly versatile. Serve it atop a bowl of creamy Greek yoghurt with fresh berries for a nutritious breakfast or enjoy it with a splash of milk as a wholesome snack. For an added twist, consider mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots or toss in some nuts for extra crunch.

The Benefits of Homemade Granola

Making granola at home not only lets you customise the flavours, but it also ensures that you know exactly what’s in your food. Store-bought options can be laden with sugars and artificial ingredients, while this recipe keeps everything natural and wholesome. Not to mention, you can adjust the sweetness to your personal taste preferences, making it a healthier option overall.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps and with minimal ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch of Five Ingredient Vanilla Granola. Whether you enjoy it plain, mixed with fruits, or sprinkled over your morning oats, it’s a delightful addition to your breakfast repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those five ingredients, and embark on the rewarding journey of making your very own granola!