Nutty Granola Cereal

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Introduction

Nutty Granola Cereal is a wholesome and delicious breakfast or snack option that combines crunchy oats with a medley of nuts, seeds, and a touch of natural sweetness. This easy-to-make granola is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious start to their day or a quick snack that’s both satisfying and filling. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, Nutty Granola Cereal is not only a great addition to your morning routine but also a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it with milk, yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls, Nutty Granola Cereal will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Perfect for:

• A healthy breakfast
• Snack time
• Meal prep for the week
• Yogurt or smoothie bowl toppings
• Gift-giving
• Vegan, gluten-free, and Halal-friendly

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Nutty Granola Cereal will become your go-to recipe:

• Wholesome Ingredients: This granola is made with simple, nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and honey. Each ingredient is packed with health benefits, ensuring that every bite fuels your body with energy and essential nutrients.
• Crunchy Texture: The combination of oats and nuts gives the granola a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for pairing with milk, yogurt, or even enjoying on its own as a snack.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: This granola can be prepared in bulk and stored for weeks, making it an ideal option for meal prep or having on hand for a quick breakfast.
• Halal and Clean Eating: This recipe contains no pork, bacon, alcohol, or any other non-Halal ingredients, making it suitable for those following a Halal lifestyle.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g, Fiber: 4g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this wholesome and crunchy Nutty Granola Cereal:

• 3 cups rolled oats (ensure gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup raw almonds, chopped
• 1 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional)
• 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Rolled Oats: A rich source of fiber and whole grains, oats are the perfect base for granola. They provide a chewy texture and absorb all the flavors of the nuts and sweeteners.
• Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds contribute healthy fats, protein, and crunch to the granola, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
• Honey (or Maple Syrup): Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup add the perfect balance of sweetness while keeping the granola free from refined sugars.
• Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a comforting flavor and also offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Dried Fruit (optional): Adding dried cranberries or raisins provides a touch of tartness and natural sweetness to balance the crunchiness of the nuts and oats.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Nutty Granola Cereal:

Prepare the Granola Mix:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the granola from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir to ensure the dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the oats and nuts are fully coated with the sweet coconut oil mixture.

Bake the Granola:

5. Spread the Granola: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to press it down slightly so it forms a compact layer. This will help create large clusters of granola once it bakes.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring the granola halfway through. Bake until the granola is golden brown and crispy, but be careful not to burn it.
7. Cool: Once the granola is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. The granola will continue to crisp up as it cools.

Add the Dried Fruit (optional):

8. Stir in Dried Fruit: After the granola has cooled, stir in the dried cranberries or raisins. This step is optional but adds a lovely burst of sweetness and texture to the mix.

Serve:

9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the granola is completely cool, transfer it to an airtight container. Serve it with milk, yogurt, or enjoy it as a snack by itself. It’s also perfect as a topping for smoothie bowls or even as a salad topper!

How to Serve Nutty Granola Cereal

Nutty Granola Cereal is extremely versatile and can be served in many different ways:

• With Milk: Pour your favorite milk (cow’s milk, almond milk, soy milk, etc.) over the granola for a hearty, satisfying breakfast.
• With Yogurt: Spoon some granola over a bowl of yogurt (Greek yogurt works great for added protein) and top it with fresh fruits like berries or bananas.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it straight from the jar as a crunchy, healthy snack during the day. You can even take it with you on the go for a quick pick-me-up.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair the granola with fresh fruit for a sweet, healthy breakfast or snack. Try it with strawberries, blueberries, or apple slices for a refreshing touch.
• In Smoothie Bowls: Sprinkle a handful of Nutty Granola Cereal on top of your smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor.
• As a Topping: Use it as a topping for desserts like baked apples, oatmeal, or even pancakes for extra crunch.

Additional Tips for Nutty Granola Cereal

Here are some tips to make your Nutty Granola Cereal even better:

• Don’t Overbake: Granola can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes. Stirring it halfway through will help it bake evenly and prevent burning.
• Customize with Your Favorite Nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as pecans, cashews, or hazelnuts. You can also mix and match for added variety.
• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe completely vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the granola is free from dairy.
• Chill the Granola: If you prefer larger clusters, press the granola down firmly on the baking sheet before baking, and avoid stirring it too much during baking. Let it cool completely in one large sheet before breaking it into pieces.
• Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of plant-based protein powder to the granola mix before baking. This can help you feel fuller for longer.

Recipe Variations of Nutty Granola Cereal

Here are some variations of Nutty Granola Cereal that you can try:

• Tropical Granola: Add dried pineapple, coconut flakes, and mango chunks for a tropical flavor.
• Cocoa Granola: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Maple Pecan Granola: Use maple syrup as your sweetener and add pecans for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon Raisin Granola: Stir in raisins and a little extra cinnamon for a classic flavor combination.
• Peanut Butter Granola: Mix in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter with the wet ingredients for a creamy, nutty flavor.
• Choco-Coconut Granola: Add a handful of mini dark chocolate chips and coconut flakes for a dessert-like granola.
• Berry Granola: Add dried strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity, tangy taste.
• Spiced Chai Granola: Add a chai spice mix (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves) to the granola for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Apple Cinnamon Granola: Add dried apple slices and extra cinnamon for a fall-inspired granola.
• Almond Joy Granola: Stir in dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped almonds for an Almond Joy-inspired granola.

Freezing and Storage for Nutty Granola Cereal

• Freezing: You can freeze Nutty Granola Cereal for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and simply thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to eat it.
• Storage: Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to keep it in a dry, cool place to maintain its crunchiness.

Special Equipment for Nutty Granola Cereal

Here are some special equipment items you might need to make Nutty Granola Cereal:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet is essential for spreading the granola in an even layer for optimal baking.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing Bowls: Having a few large mixing bowls on hand allows you to combine the dry and wet ingredients without overflow.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and ingredients for the perfect granola.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula helps you stir and spread the granola mixture evenly without damaging it.

FAQ Section about Nutty Granola Cereal

1. Can I make this granola without nuts?
   Yes, you can make a nut-free version by omitting the nuts and increasing the seeds or adding dried fruits.
2. Can I make Nutty Granola Cereal without honey?
   Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave syrup, or another liquid sweetener for a vegan option.
3. Can I use rolled oats if I want gluten-free granola?
   Yes, just make sure you’re using certified gluten-free oats, as some regular oats are processed with gluten-containing grains.
4. How long will this granola last?
   Properly stored in an airtight container, this granola will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature, or up to 3 months in the freezer.
5. Can I add chocolate chips?
   Yes, you can add mini chocolate chips after the granola has cooled, for a sweet chocolatey twist!

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Conclusion

Nutty Granola Cereal is an easy, delicious, and healthy way to start your day or enjoy a crunchy snack. With simple ingredients, customizable options, and a perfect balance of flavors, this granola will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served with milk, yogurt, or as a topping for your favorite dishes, it’s sure to keep you satisfied and energized. Enjoy this guilt-free, Halal-friendly recipe with friends and family or pack it as a thoughtful homemade gift. You’ll love the crunch, the flavor, and the health benefits!