Cooking time
- Preparation time
- 10 mins
- Cooking time
- 25 mins
- Difficulty
- easy
- Serves
- 2 people
- Meal course
- Snack
- Posted by
- Posted on
- December 26, 2023
Ingredients
- 1/2 As Needed
- Salt
- 1/4 cup
- dried fruits
- 1/4 Ts
- Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon
- coconut oil
- 2 tablespoon
- honey
- 1/4 cup
- chopped nuts
- 1 cup
- rolled oats
Welcome to Homemade Granola Clusters. In the realm of healthy and delicious snacks, homemade granola clusters stand out as a delightful treat that appeals to both your taste buds and your well-being. These crunchy, bite-sized clusters are not only scrumptious but also customizable, making them a perfect addition to your daily snacking routine. In this article, we explore the world of homemade granola clusters, from crafting them in your kitchen to understanding their nutritional benefits.
Crafting Homemade Granola Clusters
Ingredients
Creating your own homemade granola clusters requires a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rolled Oats: The heart and soul of any granola, rolled oats provide the crunchy base.
- Nuts and Seeds: Choose your favorites like almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.
- Sweetener: Opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to bind the clusters together and add sweetness.
- Oil: A neutral oil like coconut or canola helps achieve the perfect crispiness.
- Dried Fruits: Enhance the flavor profile with dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract can infuse your granola clusters with warm and comforting flavors.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
Instructions
- Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and spices. Toss them together to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the sweetener and oil until well combined. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. Press it down firmly to create clusters.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the granola clusters turn golden brown. Remember to stir the mixture every 10 minutes to ensure even baking.
- Add Dried Fruits: Once out of the oven, sprinkle your choice of dried fruits over the hot granola. Press them gently into the clusters.
- Cool: Allow the granola clusters to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crunchiness.
- Break and Store: Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Store them in an airtight container for future snacking.
Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Granola Clusters
Homemade granola clusters are not just a tasty treat; they also offer a range of nutritional benefits:
- Fiber: Rolled oats provide a good dose of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Protein: Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of plant-based protein, ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
- Healthy Fats: Nuts and oils supply healthy fats that support brain function and overall well-being.
- Antioxidants: Dried fruits contribute antioxidants, which combat free radicals in the body.
- Customizable: You have control over the ingredients, allowing you to adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences and restrictions.
Creative Variations and Serving Ideas
Homemade granola clusters are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Here are some creative variations and serving suggestions:
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer granola clusters with yogurt and fresh berries for a wholesome breakfast or dessert.
- Trail Mix: Combine granola clusters with dried fruits and dark chocolate chips for an energizing trail mix.
- Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle clusters over your favorite ice cream flavors for added crunch and flavor.
- Snack Pack: Pack granola clusters in small containers for on-the-go snacking, a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.
Conclusion
Incorporating homemade granola clusters into your daily routine is a delightful way to enjoy a crunchy, nutrient-packed snack that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body. The versatility of this homemade treat allows you to experiment with various ingredients and create a personalized flavor profile that suits your preferences. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other dishes, homemade granola clusters are a wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire.
So, why wait? It’s time to embark on your granola-making adventure and savor the goodness of homemade granola clusters.
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Homemade Granola Clusters: A Nutrient-Packed Delight - 1Touch Food Culinary Center
Welcome to Homemade Granola Clusters. In the realm of healthy and delicious snacks, homemade granola clusters stand out as a delightful treat that appeals to both your taste buds and your well-being. These crunchy, bite-sized clusters are not only scrumptious but also customizable, making them a perfect addition to your daily snacking routine. In this article, we explore the world of homemade granola clusters, from crafting them in your kitchen to understanding their nutritional benefits.
Type: snack
Cuisine: international
Keywords: Homemade Granola Clusters
Recipe Yield: 2
Calories: 250
Preparation Time: PT0H10M
Cooking Time: PT0H25M
Total Time: PT0H35M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 Tea Spoon Vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried fruits
- 1/2 As Needed Salt
Recipe Instructions: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. Add Sweetness and Flavor: Drizzle melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) over the dry mixture. Add vanilla extract for a hint of flavor. Mix until the oats and nuts are coated evenly. Create Clusters: Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly to form clusters. This helps in creating those delightful granola chunks. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the granola turns golden brown. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even baking. Add Dried Fruits: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle dried fruits over the granola while it's still warm. Press down gently to help the fruits stick. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the granola to cool completely. As it cools, it will harden into delicious clusters. Once cool, break it into chunks. Serve and Store: Serve your homemade granola clusters with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for your favorite desserts. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
5
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
- Add Sweetness and Flavor: Drizzle melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) over the dry mixture. Add vanilla extract for a hint of flavor. Mix until the oats and nuts are coated evenly.
- Create Clusters: Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly to form clusters. This helps in creating those delightful granola chunks.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the granola turns golden brown. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Add Dried Fruits: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle dried fruits over the granola while it's still warm. Press down gently to help the fruits stick.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the granola to cool completely. As it cools, it will harden into delicious clusters. Once cool, break it into chunks.
- Serve and Store: Serve your homemade granola clusters with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for your favorite desserts. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
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