Homemade 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
Yes! If you want to make a larger batch, you can double or even triple the recipe. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and use a larger baking sheet if needed.
Absolutely! Package it in a decorative jar or bag, tie on a personalized label, and you have a thoughtful and delicious homemade present.
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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Vanilla Almond Granola
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ cup almond butter
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 1 tbsp vanilla
- ¼ cup chopped almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300° and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Next, in a large mixing bowl, toss oats together with the salt and cinnamon and set aside.
- Then, combine almond butter, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Melt them together, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour the mixture over the oats and stir until well combined. Add the almonds and stir again.
- Spread the mixture onto your baking sheet. Press it into an even layer and use a flat spatula to press down firmly.
- Bake for 35 minutes, flipping the mixture about halfway through baking. Watch for the mixture to start to brown.
- Remove from the oven and press it down with the flat spatula again. Let the mixture completely cool in the pan then break it into clusters.
