The smell of cinnamon granola baking is a small joy that brings back happy memories. It’s great with yogurt, oatmeal, or just on its own. This homemade treat is a delight for your senses. It has a crunchy texture and warm, spiced flavors, making it a great way to start your day.
Key Takeaways
- Homemade cinnamon granola is a delicious and healthy breakfast option
- It’s made with a simple formula of rolled oats, nuts/seeds, coconut oil, and cinnamon
- Customizable ingredients allow you to tailor the granola to your taste preferences
- Granola can be enjoyed in various ways, such as topping yogurt or mixing into milk
- Homemade granola avoids the added sugars and preservatives found in many store-bought brands
What is Cinnamon Granola?
A Delightful Combination of Flavors
Cinnamon granola is a tasty breakfast treat. It mixes the warm taste of cinnamon with the nutty flavor of oats and nuts. It’s loved by those who want a healthy and crunchy start to their day.
The main ingredient is rolled oats, which are healthy and filling. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and good fats. Sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut oil add sweetness and hold the granola together.
The special thing about cinnamon granola is the lots of ground cinnamon it has. This warm, sweet spice flavor goes well with the other ingredients. It makes a breakfast that’s both cozy and a little bit special.
You can eat cinnamon granola on its own, over yogurt or oatmeal, or as a topping for smoothie bowls and baked goods. Its flexibility makes it a favorite in many homes. People enjoy it with Quaker Oats, Nature’s Path, or Bob’s Red Mill brands.
“Cinnamon granola is a delightful breakfast treat that combines the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon with the toasted, nutty notes of oats and nuts.”
Benefits of Making Homemade Granola
Making your own cinnamon granola at home is rewarding. You get to choose what goes into it. This means you can avoid the sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors found in Quaker Oats, Nature’s Path, and Bob’s Red Mill.
Homemade cinnamon granola lets you tailor it to your liking. You can pick your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and spices. This way, you can make a unique blend that you’ll love.
Also, making homemade cinnamon granola can save you money. By buying your own ingredients and baking it, you get a quality snack without the high cost. Plus, baking it fills your kitchen with the amazing smell of cinnamon.
“The smell of freshly baked cinnamon granola is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.”
Whether you want to save money, avoid additives, or enjoy a homemade treat, making your own cinnamon granola is a great choice. With a bit of time and effort, you can have a delicious, nutritious, and customized snack that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients Needed for Cinnamon Granola
Wholesome and Natural Ingredients
To make tasty cinnamon granola at home, you need a few simple ingredients. The base is rolled oats, which are hearty and satisfying. You can also add nuts like almonds or pecans, and seeds like chia or flax for crunch and flavor.
Coconut oil or butter helps bind the granola, along with a bit of maple syrup or honey for sweetness. The main ingredient is ground cinnamon, which gives the granola a warm, comforting taste.
You can also add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, and shredded coconut to your homemade cinnamon granola. This lets you customize it to your liking.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Old-Fashioned Oats | 3 cups |
| Honey | 1/3 cup |
| Coconut Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground Cardamom (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
| Kosher Salt | 1/8 tsp |
| Chia Seeds (optional) | 1 Tbsp |
These natural ingredients come together to make a homemade cinnamon granola. It’s not just tasty, but also full of nutrients and fiber to start your day off right.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making homemade cinnamon granola is easy and fun. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a big bowl, mix together the wet ingredients. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add 2 1/2 cups of rolled oats and any mix-ins you like, like 1 cup of raw nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts) and 1 1/2 cups of crispy rice cereal. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly.
- Spread the homemade granola mixture on the baking sheet. Make sure it’s in one layer.
- Bake the baked granola for 15-20 minutes. Stir it halfway through. It should turn golden-brown.
After baking, let the cinnamon granola cool completely. This is important. It will crisp up as it cools.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rolled Oats | 2 1/2 cups |
| Crispy Rice Cereal | 1 1/2 cups |
| Raw Nuts | 1 cup |
| Coconut Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey or Maple Syrup | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 1/2 teaspoons |
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon granola for breakfast, a snack, or as a topping. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
“This cinnamon granola is a game-changer! The perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.”
Cinnamon Granola: A Versatile Treat
Cinnamon granola is a versatile ingredient. Enjoy it with yogurt or plant-based milk for a great start. Add it to oatmeal or smoothie bowls for extra flavor and crunch.
It’s also perfect as a snack alone or with dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips. Its warm taste is amazing on muffins, cookies, pies, or cakes.
| Serving Size | Preparation Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| 20 servings | 50 minutes | 185 kcal |
The mix of cinnamon, oats, and maple syrup makes cinnamon granola irresistible. Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a topping. It will always please your taste buds.
Make a batch of homemade cinnamon granola and explore its versatility. Use it in yogurt parfaits or trail mixes. Enjoy its comforting flavors all day long.
Storing and Portioning Cinnamon Granola
Tips for Keeping Your Granola Fresh
Keeping your homemade cinnamon granola fresh is key. Cool the granola completely before storing. Then, put it in an airtight container or resealable bag.
This keeps the granola fresh and crunchy. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer, freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you portion out the granola, use a measuring cup. This ensures you get the right amount every time.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 weeks |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Remember, homemade granola expands when frozen. So, leave some space in the container. To serve, thaw the frozen granola at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
Always label the container with the date you made it. This helps you keep track of how fresh it is.
Flavor Variations and Mix-Ins
Homemade cinnamon granola lets you tailor it to your liking. You can add spices like ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom. For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots add sweetness. Feel free to mix and match to create your own unique granola.
Adding almond butter to your granola recipe gives it a nutty taste and extra protein. It also makes the homemade granola clump together beautifully. You can also add unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flavor and texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Walnuts | 1 cup, chopped | Provides crunch, protein, and healthy fats |
| Dried Cranberries | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness and chewy texture |
| Pumpkin Seeds | 1/4 cup | Offers a nutty flavor and nutritional boost |
| Unsweetened Coconut Flakes | 1/2 cup | Enhances flavor and texture |
There are countless ways to make your cinnamon granola special. Try different mixes to find your favorite taste. Enjoy the fun of making your own breakfast treat.
Cinnamon Granola Brands and Products
Homemade cinnamon granola lets you control what goes into it. But, many great store-bought options are out there too. Brands like Quaker Oats, Nature’s Path, Bob’s Red Mill, and Kashi offer a variety of cinnamon granola. You can find everything from classic cinnamon to flavors with nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate.
For those who like pre-portioned snacks, cinnamon granola bars are a good choice. Honey Bunches of Oats and Kashi have a range of cinnamon-flavored bars. They cater to different diets and tastes.
Cinnamon Peanut Butter Grain-Free Nut Granola from Wildway is a standout. It has 5g of sugar per serving and is gluten-free. It’s made with cashews, nut butter, pumpkin seeds, and coconut oil. This makes it a nutritious and tasty snack.
“Wildway offers grain-free, vegan Apple Cinnamon granola in an 8oz package. The company uses 100% real ingredients, avoiding synthetic flavorings, preservatives, and refined sugars and oils in their products.”
Looking for a classic cinnamon flavor or something unique? The cinnamon granola market has lots to choose from. There’s something for everyone, no matter your taste or dietary needs.
Nutritional Benefits of Cinnamon Granola
Cinnamon granola is a nutritious breakfast choice. Rolled oats, the base, are a whole grain. They offer fiber, complex carbs, and essential vitamins and minerals. Nuts and seeds add heart-healthy fats, protein, and more nutrients.
Cinnamon, the main ingredient, is packed with antioxidants. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties. Homemade cinnamon granola can be rich in magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, depending on the recipe.
Here’s a closer look at the nutritional profile of cinnamon granola:
- Fiber: 5–10g per portion, helping with digestion and keeping you feeling full.
- Whole Grains: Provides 14g of whole grains per 1 oz eq grain serving.
- Total Sugars: 6g per 1 oz eq grain serving, with the majority coming from natural sources.
- Protein: 5g per serving, supporting muscle health and growth.
- Healthy Fats: 7g total fat, 1g saturated fat per serving, from nuts and seeds.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Good source of calcium, iron, and various B vitamins.
Enjoying cinnamon granola in moderation is key. It should be part of a balanced diet. But, it can be a nutritious and tasty breakfast or snack when eaten mindfully.
Conclusion
This Recipe is a delicious and versatile option for breakfast or a snack that you can easily prepare at home. By making it yourself, you can create a healthier alternative to many store-bought varieties. The comforting cinnamon flavor pairs perfectly with toasted oats, nuts, and seeds, making for a delightful and wholesome treat.
This granola is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Sprinkle it over yogurt for a crunchy parfait, use it in baked goods, or simply enjoy it on its own. The best part? It’s fully customizable to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re experimenting with new recipes or adding a twist to your usual meals, cinnamon granola is a fun and tasty option to try. Enjoy the process of making your own granola and savor the nutritious and flavorful outcome!