Vanilla Almond Granola

Name: Vanilla Almond Granola
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/2 cup dried fruits (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making my own granola at home, especially this Vanilla Almond Granola. The combination of crunchy oats and toasted almonds, blended with a hint of vanilla, creates a lovely breakfast or snack option that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s easy to customize and ensures I know exactly what goes into it. Plus, the sweet aroma that fills my kitchen while it's baking is simply irresistible. I cannot wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:52:36.485Z

When I first attempted to make granola, I was surprised by how simple the process was. This Vanilla Almond Granola became my go-to recipe, not just for breakfast but also for snacking. I love incorporating both rolled oats and almonds because they provide a fantastic texture. One key tip I discovered is to ensure that the honey and oil mixture is evenly coated onto the dry ingredients, which really enhances the flavor.

As I continued to refine my recipe over time, I realized that adding a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste significantly. Adjusting the bake time can also give you different levels of crunchiness, allowing you to customize the granola to your preference. I promise, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your pantry!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The delightful combination of sweet vanilla and crunchy almonds
Customizable with your favorite nuts and dried fruits
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or toppings on yogurt

Perfecting the Crunch

Achieving that perfect crunchy texture is essential for a satisfying granola experience. The combination of rolled oats and sliced almonds works wonderfully, but it's the baking time that really matters. Make sure to bake it until the edges are golden brown, which usually takes around 30 minutes. Stirring halfway through ensures even toasting and prevents any bits from getting too dark. If you like your granola extra crunchy, consider leaving it in the oven for a few more minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Using coconut oil not only helps to bind the ingredients but also adds a subtle flavor that complements the almonds and vanilla. For a twist, consider mixing in a tablespoon of almond butter with your wet ingredients; this can enhance both the flavor and richness. However, it’s important to adjust the amount of liquid sweetener slightly if you do this, as the almond butter will contribute to the overall moisture content.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best aspects of homemade granola is its customizability. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try substituting the almonds with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. You can use the same quantity to maintain the nutritional value and texture. Dried fruits add sweetness and chewiness, but remember to adjust the sweetener in the recipe based on how sweet your chosen fruits are; dried cranberries can be tart, while raisins tend to be sweeter.

If you're aiming for a gluten-free version, check that your rolled oats are certified gluten-free. Additionally, experimenting with different types of sweeteners can lead to exciting results; agave syrup, brown rice syrup, or even a touch of molasses can change the flavor profile while keeping the granola cohesive.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After your granola cools completely, it's important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and crunch. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it should last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight bags. Granola can be eaten straight as a snack or served with yogurt or milk, making it an excellent option for breakfast. I often add fresh berries on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Another delicious serving idea is to use granola as a topping for smoothie bowls. Its texture contrasts beautifully with creamy blends, providing both a visual appeal and some satisfying crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also incorporate your granola into baked goods, like muffins or cookies, for an added nutty flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious homemade granola!

Granola Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 cup dried fruits (optional)

Mix and match ingredients for your perfect granola blend!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Vanilla Almond Granola.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, sliced almonds, and sea salt together until evenly combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well blended.

Combine and Mix

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to coat all the oats and almonds.

Bake the Granola

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting.

Cool and Store

Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding any dried fruits. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your granola as a snack or breakfast topped with yogurt!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices to suit your taste. Also, keep an eye on the granola to prevent burning as oven temperatures can vary significantly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your granola isn't as crunchy as you'd hoped, it may need more baking time. Check it during the last few minutes and let it bake until it reaches a desirable golden color. Be cautious not to underbake, as the granola will continue to harden slightly as it cools. Another issue could be clumping; if this happens, you might be mixing it too aggressively. Stir gently to maintain clusters, which can be delightful in texture.

Conversely, if your granola appears overly clumpy and you prefer a flakier texture, consider breaking it apart with a wooden spoon once it has cooled slightly. This will help separate the pieces while preventing dust from forming. Adjusting the oil and sweetener ratio can also change the clumping behavior; using less oil often yields drier granola that may crumble more easily.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable based on your needs. If you want to make a large batch, simply double or triple the ingredients but keep in mind that baking times might vary. Spreading the granola too thickly on the baking sheet can lead to uneven cooking, so opt for multiple sheets if you’re expanding the quantity. Keep an eye on the color, as larger batches may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

When scaling down, focus on using appropriate measuring tools. For instance, if you’re halving the recipe, consider using a kitchen scale for accurate measurements, especially for ingredients like honey or oil, which can be tricky in liquid form. Also, be mindful of your baking time, as smaller amounts will generally cook faster. Checking on it a bit earlier will help avoid over-baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute any nuts you like or even add seeds for more variation.

→ How long can I store this granola?

When stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

→ Is this granola gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the coconut oil is plant-based.