Vanilla Almond Granola

Give old-fashioned granola new life with this sweet and crunchy Vanilla Almond Granola recipe. Easy to make and so many ways to enjoy.

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Why we love this recipe

This yummy vanilla granola has the right balance of sweetness and spice by combining a natural sweetener like maple syrup with a touch of warm aromatic cinnamon. 

Just like this protein granola – it is a tasty and satisfying recipe. 

We also like that this vanilla almond granola is naturally vegan and gluten-free! Just be sure to check the label of the oats for any possible allergens.

Ingredients

• oats – we highly recommend rolled oats for this recipe. Quick oats may be substituted however the cooking time and the texture will both be different as the old-fashioned oats hold up better during baking.
• almonds – whole almonds chopped in half are the secret to this recipe! Slivered or sliced almonds are fine but there is nothing like the crunch of a roasted almond.
• ground cinnamon – adds a punch of warm spice to the blend. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg.
• sea salt – an essential ingredient to bring out the flavors in the rest of the items.
• almond butter – crunchy or smooth – it is totally up to you! Both work well.
• maple syrup – honey is a perfect substitute.
• vanilla extract – use more than usual for a strong essence of the flavor.

Equipment

• mixing bowl  
• spatula – I use a rubber spatula for stirring the mixture and a flat spatula to press it down to help make granola clusters
• parchment paper – a must for easy cleanup.
• baking sheet 

Instructions for Vanilla Almond Granola

Step 1

Start by preheating the oven to 300 and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Using a whisk or spoon, toss the oats with cinnamon and sea salt in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 3

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the wet ingredients – almond butter, coconut oil, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. 

Step 4

Pour the warm mixture over the oat mixture and stir until combined.

Add the chopped almonds and give everything a good last mix.

Step 5

Dump the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into an even layer.

Press down firmly using a flat spatula.

Step 6

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, stirring after 15 minutes.

If you want clusters in the granola, try not to stir too much while baking.

Step 7

Once the granola is golden brown, take the pan out of the oven. Use a flat spatula and immediately press down on the hot granola to help create those coveted crunchy clusters.

Let it cool completely in the pan before breaking it into pieces.

Expert tip

If you love those granola clusters, avoid stirring the mixture too much during baking. As soon as you remove it from the oven, press firmly down on the granola with a flat spatula, then allow it to cool completely before breaking it into clusters.

Recipe variations

• Customize your vanilla almond granola by adding extras like dried fruits such as cranberries, cherries, or raisins. Sprinkle these add-on ingredients right after the granola has finished baking and press them down firmly with a flat spatula. This step will preserve their taste and texture.
• Add more chopped nuts like walnuts, cashews, peanuts, or pecans to add even more crunch.
• Experiment with different extract flavorings such as almond or maple extract.

Serving Suggestions

• The crunchy texture of the granola tastes delicious mixed into yogurt and topped with fresh berries.
• Enjoy it sprinkled on top of smoothie bowls.
• Pour cold milk overtop for a tasty cereal with freshly sliced strawberries.
• Simply eat by the handful as a healthy snack

FAQS

Storing

Store the granola in an airtight container, such as a mason jar with a lid, at room temperature. It is best eaten within a week.

More homemade granola recipes

**This recipe was originally published on August 29, 2014, and republished on May 13, 2023, with recipe updates, new photos, and writing.**

If you’ve tried my Homemade Vanilla Almond Granola, please rate the recipe and let me know how it turned out by leaving me a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.