How To Make Granola: Boost Your Breakfast with Our Foolproof Granola Making Guide

Granola's Journey to Your Breakfast Table

Granola's origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when it was first invented as a wholesome breakfast option in the United States. Initially, it was known as 'granula' and was praised for its health-giving properties, as it was full of wholegrains and later grew more popular with the addition of fruit, nuts and seeds. Over the last half-century, granola has become synonymous with a natural and healthy way of eating. It is celebrated for its convenience and versatility at breakfast time, enjoyed by kids, working parents and older generations.

The Health Benefits of Granola

High in Dietary Fibre

Sweet, crunchy and good for you! Granola is full of dietary fibre, thanks to the healthy dose of rolled oats that form the base of this delicious breakfast favourite. Fibre is important in promoting digestive health by supporting regular bowel movements and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A fibre-rich diet is also associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases, including heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Easy Protein Source

When you make granola at home, you're in total control of your ingredients. This means adding a plant-based protein boost to the mix with a scoop of nuts and seeds. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining healthy hair and nails. If you’re following a plant-based diet, enjoying granola can conveniently incorporate additional protein into your meals and snacks.

Rich in Antioxidants

In addition to fibre and protein, granola often includes a variety of vitamins and minerals, depending on the ingredients used. For instance, nuts and seeds provide essential fats, B vitamins, vitamin E and important minerals like magnesium and zinc. Dried fruits added to granola can offer natural sweetness to your homemade granola. Foods like prunes and figs also provide a serving of plant polyphenols and plant-based antioxidants, which promote healthy ageing. Together, these nutrients support overall health and wellness, making granola a smart choice for anyone looking to increase their nutritional intake.

How to Make Granola at Home

Now let's get into the details: how to make granola at home. Making granola is really simple and gives you creative licence to make a custom blend that satisfies your dietary needs as well as your taste buds.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make granola from scratch:

Combine Your Base Ingredients

Gather your ingredients together to make a basic granola blend. These include:

• 2 cups of rolled oats
• 1 cup of mixed nuts and seeds
• 1/3 cup sweetener such as rice malt syrup, maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 1 -2 teaspoons each of cinnamon and vanilla extract
• 1 small pinch of sea salt

Mix Together And Spread On A Baking Tray

• Preheat your oven to 150°C and line a baking sheet with baking paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, sweetener, oil, spices, and salt. Mix well with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Bake Your Granola

• Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
• Once golden brown, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely before breaking into granola clusters.

Add Dried Fruits (Optional But Delicious)

• Once cooled, add dried fruits like sultanas, currants, chopped Medjool dates, dried apricots, organic Goji berries, dried cranberries, dried mulberries or dried blueberries for an extra layer of flavour and texture.

Your homemade granola is now ready to enjoy!

Tasty Granola Variations

One of the joys of making granola at home is the freedom to customise it to suit your tastes. You can create endless variations that keep breakfasts and snacktime exciting by experimenting with different ingredients. Here are some ideas to inspire your next batch:

• Nutty Delight: Add a mix of your favourite nuts like pistachios, pecans, and hazelnuts for a moreish flavour, a hit of omega-3 fats and added protein. Top tip: toast your nuts before adding them to the mix for a bold and rich flavour.
• Tropical Twist: Incorporate dried coconut flakes, dried pineapple pieces and banana chips for a taste of the tropics. A sprinkle of glacé ginger or glacé cherries gives your granola a fancy kick, sure to impress any brunch guest.
• Freeze-Dried Fun: Add freeze-dried berries like raspberries, blueberries and mulberries for a burst of fruity flavour.

Storing Your Homemade Granola

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and flavour of your homemade granola. By following a few simple tips, you can extend the shelf life and enjoy your creation to the fullest:

1. Use airtight containers: Transfer your cooled granola to an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This prevents moisture and air from spoiling the texture and taste.
2. Store in a cool, dry Place: Keep your granola in a pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can cause it to become soggy.
3. Check for freshness: Homemade granola typically stays fresh for up to two weeks. Before consuming, check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or taste.

Enjoy Easy and Delicious Homemade Granola Today

From humble beginnings to its status as a bonafide breakfast staple, granola is a firm favourite at breakfast tables worldwide. By learning how to make granola at home, you can take control of the ingredients and flavours, creating a custom blend that suits your taste and dietary needs.

With endless possibilities for customisation and plenty of ways to make it healthy, why not get started on your homemade granola adventure today? Gather your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a tasty, homemade batch of crunchy granola for the whole family.

3 Ways to Use Granola in Everyday Recipes

Incorporating granola into everyday recipes can add a delightful crunch and nutritional boost to your meals. Here are three creative ways to use granola: