Granola is one of those foods that is convenient yet expensive to buy. I’ve spent many dollars on this food for my spouse and I, when I know all I have to do is make it myself. I have made granola on quite a few occasions. These days it’s even more necessary to make my own. So I concocted this version.
The basic ingredients stay the same in any version of granola: oats, syrups, salt, and margarine. What does change are the flavor components, like the flavorings and spices. I like orange and vanilla flavored things. You could use almond or other extracts that are available on the market.
Next, you can get creative with the other ingredients to personalize your granola. Some of the things you might add are walnuts, slivered almonds, raisins, dried ginger, cranberries, and coconut. Just be sure to be careful when adding these extras, make sure if you add them in the baking process they are raw and won’t burn. If you add them afterwards, make sure it’s a flavor that will blend well. Foods like raisins are better added after cooking the basic granola. Coconut can be added during, especially if you are using desiccated coconut.
Experiment to see what your family likes. My spouse has very specific tastes. One of their favorite granolas is pumpkin flax, so I’ve created a version of that as well. If you like chia seeds, add those. Read the ingredients on store-bought granolas and try to approximate those. If you have any questions leave a comment and I’ll answer them to the best of my ability.
If you enjoy this recipe please make sure to like it and share with your friends.
- 6 cups rolled oats (I use certified gluten free)
- ½ cup margarine (I use Earth Balance)
- 1 cup maple syrup
- ½ cup agave syrup
- 1 ½ tbsp orange extract
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ½ tbsp mace
- 1 tbsp powdered ginger
- 1 tsp salt
- Measure out the oats into a mixing bowl. Melt the margarine. Combine all the ingredients and stir thoroughly.
- Let sit 30 minutes or longer.
- Pre-heat your oven to 225 degrees.
- Place a silpat onto a cookie sheet (sheet pan). Pour the granola onto the sheet pan. Place in the oven. If you don’t have a silpat, use parchment paper or a little oil spray.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Stir. Bake for another 15 minutes and stir again. Make sure to mix thoroughly so the oats cook evenly.
- Bake for another few minutes to your desired toastiness
- Serve to family and friends with your favorite cold nutmilk beverage. I favor almond milk. You can also add it to your morning yogurt, non-dairy of course, or include it in a trail mix. It makes a perfect snack when watching movies.
