Maple Almond Cranberry Granola Recipe | Easy Homemade Granola

Craving a breakfast that’s both healthy and ridiculously delicious?

Then you’ve come to the right place! This Maple Almond Cranberry Granola is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the satisfying crunch of toasted oats, the nutty goodness of almonds, the sweet tang of cranberries, all perfectly glazed with maple syrup. It’s easy to make, incredibly impressive, and you’ll be wanting to eat it straight from the jar!

Why You’ll Love It

• The flavor is absolutely irresistible – the combination of maple, almond, and cranberry is simply divine.
• It’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, sprinkled over smoothie bowls, or just as a crunchy snack.
• It’s super easy to make with minimal effort involved and no fancy equipment needed.
• The homemade aroma while baking is intoxicating and will make your whole kitchen smell amazing.
• It stores well for weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack option.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What truly sets this granola apart is the balance of flavors and textures. We’re using real maple syrup, not just a touch, which creates a luscious, caramel-like glaze that’s so much more flavorful than using refined sugar. The addition of sliced almonds adds a beautiful crunch and nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries. And we’re not just mixing everything together – we’re carefully layering the ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredient List

• 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup maple syrup (the real stuff!)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

Maple syrup: Provides both sweetness and a unique flavor profile, contributing to the wonderful glaze. Sliced almonds: Offer a pleasing texture and nutty flavor that complement the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, and salt. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the granola mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the granola is golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overbake.
7. Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
8. Once cooled, gently mix in the dried cranberries.
9. Store in an airtight container.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your granola to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled granola for a decadent treat.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; ensure the granola is spread in a thin, even layer for optimal crispness.
• Stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
• Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet; it will crisp up significantly as it cools.
• Use real maple syrup for the best flavor; avoid pancake syrup, which doesn’t have the same depth.
• Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the almonds? Yes! You can use other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews. Just make sure they are sliced or chopped.
• Can I use different dried fruit? Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries.
• How long does the granola stay fresh? When stored in an airtight container, it should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan!
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Variations and Customization Options

This granola recipe is just the beginning! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Spice it up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warming twist.
• Nut-free version: Replace the almonds with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free option.
• Chocolate Lover: Add chocolate chips or chunks after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Maple Almond Cranberry Granola is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it with your favorite yogurt, pour milk over it for a delicious cereal, sprinkle it on top of smoothie bowls or use as a topping for desserts. You can also snack on it straight out of the jar when you need a little crunch.

Conclusion

This Maple Almond Cranberry Granola is more than just a breakfast; it’s a delightful experience that’s easy to make and incredibly rewarding. The warm, sweet, and crunchy flavors will brighten your mornings and keep you energized throughout the day. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your photos and tag us! We can’t wait to see your creations!

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• Vegan Banana Nut Oatmeal Cookies
• Vegan Matcha Sesame Cookies
• Vegan Peppermint Mocha Cookies

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