Recipe 1 – Mom’s Classic Granola with Maple Syrup

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of freshly baked granola. This recipe, inspired by my mom’s timeless classic, is sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup, offering a deliciously wholesome start to your day. Packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and a hint of cinnamon, this granola is not only versatile and easy to make but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, this granola recipe can be customized with your favorite add-ins, making it a delightful treat any time of day!

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Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans), roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (preferably dark amber for a richer flavor)
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates) – optional
• 1/4 cup seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds) – optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well distributed.
3. Blend Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients.
4. Combine: Use a silicone spatula to mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring that all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the maple syrup mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect clump of granola.
5. Bake to Perfection: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. The granola is done when it’s golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Add Extras: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan—it will crisp up as it cools. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit and seeds, if using.
7. Store and Enjoy: Transfer the granola to an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy it on its own, with milk or yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls.

Pro Tips:

• For Clumpier Granola: Press down on the granola with a spatula halfway through baking and let it cool completely without stirring. This helps the granola stick together and form those irresistible clusters!
• Customize Your Granola: Feel free to swap out the nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for your favorites. Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist, or toss in some dark chocolate chips after baking for a touch of decadence.

This classic granola recipe is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious way to start your day. Whether enjoyed with a splash of milk, sprinkled over creamy yogurt, or munched on as a snack, it’s a wholesome treat that you’ll love to make again and again. And the best part? You can adapt it endlessly to suit your tastes. So, grab your favorite mix-ins, and let’s get baking!