Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious snack, Almond Butter Granola is the perfect solution. This homemade granola combines the wholesome goodness of oats and almonds with the rich flavor of almond butter. It’s easy to make, customizable, and great for breakfast or a quick energy boost throughout the day.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup raw almonds
⅓ cup shredded coconut
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅓ cup creamy almond butter
⅓ cup honey
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes (plus cooling time)
Yield
Approximately 6 cups
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, raw almonds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the creamy almond butter, honey, and unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth, approximately 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown.
6. Cool: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring, about 45 minutes. This helps form clusters.
7. Store: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container. It can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy your homemade Almond Butter Granola!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the oats, raw almonds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Mixture:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the creamy almond butter, honey, and unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth, approximately 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Bake:
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown.
6. Cool:
Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring, about 45 minutes. This helps form clusters.
7. Store:
Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container. It can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions:
You can replace almond butter with other nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter if preferred.
Sweetness Adjustments:
Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your desired level of sweetness.
Flavor Variations:
Consider adding dried fruits or chocolate chips after baking for additional flavor and texture.
Storage Recommendations:
For best freshness, keep the granola in a cool, dry place.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating your oven ensures that it reaches the desired temperature before baking, allowing for even cooking and browning.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Combining dry ingredients like oats, nuts, and spices ensures that flavors are evenly distributed throughout the granola.
Preparing the Wet Mixture
Melting the almond butter, honey, and butter together creates a smooth mixture that binds the dry ingredients, enhancing the granola’s texture.
Combining Mixtures
Thoroughly mixing the wet and dry ingredients helps coat the oats and nuts evenly, which is essential for proper baking and flavor distribution.
Baking
Baking at the right temperature and time develops flavor and achieves the desired crunchiness, while stirring halfway through promotes even browning.
Cooling
Allowing the granola to cool completely forms clusters and maintains texture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect granola consistency.
Storing
Transferring the granola to an airtight container helps maintain freshness and extends its shelf life.
FAQ
Can I substitute honey with maple syrup?
Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey in equal ratios for a vegan-friendly option.
How can I make the granola gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure that the granola is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.
How do I achieve clumpier granola?
To get clumpier granola, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking.
What should I do if my granola isn’t browning?
If your granola isn’t browning, ensure your oven is correctly preheated, and consider increasing the baking time slightly while monitoring closely.
How long will the granola last?
When stored in an airtight container, the granola can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Conclusion
The Almond Butter Granola is a delicious and nutritious snack that is perfect for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. With its combination of wholesome oats, crunchy almonds, and flavorful spices, this homemade granola not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a good dose of energy. Making it yourself ensures you control the ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties. Enjoy it on its own, over yogurt, or with milk for a delightful treat!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Granola
Swap almond butter for peanut butter and add chocolate chips for a rich, sweet twist.
Maple Pecan Granola
Replace the almonds with pecans and use maple syrup instead of honey for a fall-inspired flavor.
Cinnamon Raisin Granola
Add raisins and increase the cinnamon for a classic cinnamon raisin flavor.
Fruit and Nut Granola
Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots and mix in nuts such as walnuts or cashews for extra nutrition.
Chocolate Hazelnut Granola
Substitute almond butter with chocolate hazelnut spread and add cocoa powder for a decadent granola option.
