Homemade Granola with Milk Recipe

Introduction

Homemade granola with milk is a simple, nourishing, and versatile breakfast or snack option that is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier and more customizable alternative to store-bought granola, which often contains added sugars and preservatives. Granola is a classic dish that’s been enjoyed by many for generations, offering a satisfying crunch, natural sweetness, and plenty of fiber and protein to start the day off right.

Making granola at home is surprisingly easy, and the best part is that you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a nutty and sweet granola with dried fruit, or one that’s more savory and packed with seeds, homemade granola can be as simple or as creative as you want it to be. Pairing it with milk—whether dairy or plant-based—creates a comforting and satisfying breakfast bowl that can keep you full for hours.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make homemade granola with milk from scratch, explain the nutritional benefits, and share useful tips to help you create the perfect granola. We’ll also explore some variations and ideas to help you get the most out of this versatile dish.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Granola with Milk

• Customizable: One of the best aspects of homemade granola is its versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness, add or remove ingredients, and even make it gluten-free or vegan based on your dietary preferences. Whether you like it nutty, fruity, or a mix of both, granola can be tailored to your exact tastes.
• Nutrient-Dense: Granola is full of wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, all of which are packed with essential nutrients. It’s high in fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it a filling breakfast that can keep you energized throughout the morning.
• Easy to Make: Homemade granola is simple to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. The ingredients are easy to find, and the process involves just mixing, baking, and waiting for the delicious aroma to fill your kitchen. Plus, once it’s made, granola can be stored for weeks, making it a convenient meal prep option.
• Tastes Better: Homemade granola not only tastes fresher than store-bought varieties but it also allows you to experiment with flavors and textures. By baking your granola from scratch, you get a crispy, golden texture that’s hard to replicate in pre-packaged versions.
• Affordable: Making granola at home is not only healthier but also more economical than buying it from the store. You can buy ingredients in bulk and make large batches, saving both time and money in the long run.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g (depending on nuts, seeds, and oils used)
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 5-7g
• Sugar: 8-10g (if using sweeteners like honey or maple syrup)

Ingredients

For the Granola:

• 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup raw nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews), roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup seeds (such as sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chia seeds)
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped if large
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or a combination of both)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (or another oil like olive oil or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For Serving:

• 1-2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk)
• Optional toppings: Fresh berries, banana slices, yogurt, or extra honey

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking granola, as it allows the oats to toast evenly and become crispy without burning.

2. Prepare the Granola Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and shredded coconut (if using). These ingredients provide a variety of textures and flavors that make homemade granola so satisfying. Stir everything together to ensure the oats and nuts are evenly distributed.

3. Add Sweeteners and Flavorings

Next, add the honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the oat mixture. The sweeteners and coconut oil will help the granola crisp up in the oven, while the vanilla and cinnamon add depth and flavor to the dish. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure that all the dry ingredients are coated evenly with the wet ingredients.

4. Spread the Mixture on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the granola from sticking. Pour the granola mixture onto the sheet and spread it out into an even layer. The more spread out the granola is, the crispier it will become.

5. Bake the Granola

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll want the granola to turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it in the final minutes of baking to make sure it doesn’t burn. The granola will continue to crisp up as it cools.

6. Cool the Granola

Once the granola is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is essential for the granola to become crispy and crunchy. As it cools, the granola will harden and clump together, which is perfect for that satisfying crunch.

7. Add the Dried Fruit

After the granola has cooled, stir in the dried fruit of your choice. You can use raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, or any other dried fruit you prefer. The dried fruit adds sweetness and chewy texture, making each bite of granola even more enjoyable.

8. Store the Granola

Once the granola has fully cooled and the dried fruit has been added, transfer it to an airtight container. Homemade granola can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or you can keep it in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. You can also portion it into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.

9. Serve with Milk

To serve, scoop a portion of your homemade granola into a bowl and pour your choice of milk over it. You can use dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer. For extra flavor, top your granola with fresh fruit like berries or banana slices, and drizzle a bit more honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Granola with Milk

• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to suit your tastes. You can even add extras like cacao nibs, dark chocolate chips, or peanut butter for additional flavor. The possibilities are endless!
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the granola as it bakes, especially during the last few minutes. Granola can burn quickly, so it’s important to stir it halfway through and monitor it closely in the final stages.
• Make It Crunchy: If you prefer extra-crunchy granola, you can bake it a little longer and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. The granola will harden more as it cools, giving it that satisfying crunch.
• Use a Combination of Sweeteners: For a more complex sweetness, try combining honey and maple syrup. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like agave nectar or coconut sugar.
• Add Fresh Toppings: For an even more indulgent breakfast, top your granola with fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of peanut butter. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Variations of Homemade Granola with Milk

• Chocolate Granola: For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder or cacao nibs to the granola mixture before baking. You can also mix in some mini chocolate chips once the granola has cooled for a sweet treat.
• Tropical Granola: Incorporate dried coconut flakes, pineapple chunks, and mango for a tropical flavor. You can also add cashews or macadamia nuts for extra richness.
• Nut-Free Granola: If you have nut allergies or prefer to avoid nuts, simply skip the nuts and increase the amount of seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds. You can also add extra dried fruit for texture.
• Spiced Granola: Add warming spices like ginger, nutmeg, and cloves for a spiced granola perfect for fall or winter. This variation pairs wonderfully with cinnamon milk or hot chai tea.
• Vegan Granola: Make your granola vegan by using maple syrup as your sweetener and substituting coconut oil for any dairy-based fat. This granola is perfect for anyone following a vegan or plant-based diet.

Storage and Shelf Life

Homemade granola can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. It can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks for added freshness. If you want to keep granola for a longer period of time, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply let it thaw and serve with milk.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Homemade Granola with Milk

While granola with milk makes for a fantastic meal on its own, you can pair it with additional sides or toppings for a more substantial breakfast:

• Fresh Fruit: Serve your granola with a side of fresh fruit such as berries, sliced bananas, or apple slices. The sweetness of the fruit complements the granola perfectly.
• Yogurt: For added creaminess and protein, add a dollop of yogurt—Greek yogurt, dairy-free yogurt, or any flavor you prefer—on top of your granola.
• Smoothie: Pair your granola with a smoothie for a refreshing, nutrient-packed breakfast. A berry smoothie or green smoothie would pair wonderfully with granola.
• Nut Butters: Spread some peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter on toast or mix it directly into your granola for a satisfying savory contrast.

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Conclusion

Homemade granola with milk is an easy, delicious, and customizable dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from those looking for a healthy breakfast to those who just want something quick and tasty. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience while baking, you can create a crunchy, flavorful granola that is much better than anything store-bought. Plus, pairing it with milk of your choice creates a satisfying and nourishing meal that will keep you full and energized.

With the ability to customize it to suit your dietary needs, Homemade Granola with Milk is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, filling breakfast. You can enjoy it in countless variations and pair it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or other toppings to make it truly your own. Try making it in large batches and keep it on hand for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, homemade granola is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.