I have made granola for many years. However, I admit that I was not as dedicated to it as I am currently and often fell victim to purchasing it at the store in the name of “convenience”. When I decided to clean out my pantry and turn over a new leaf, I got rid of cereal and store purchased granola. That small action started me on a new routine of making homemade granola every week. I typically make it on Sunday to set us up for the rest of the hectic week.
Homemade granola is not just easy to make, it’s so much healthier than any you could buy. What I like best about making my own granola is being able to control the ingredients I use. Actually, it’s what I like best about cooking all of my own food.
When you cook at home you know exactly what goes into what you are making. Not only can you ensure that you include organic grains, but also that the type of oil and sweetener used are healthy, In my basic granola recipe I use coconut oil in place of unhealthy seed oil, and honey or maple syrup in place of corn syrup or sugar.
Because oats are sprayed with glyphosate, it’s important to use a certified organic grain. I use Bob’s Red Mill because it’s a brand I started using for gluten free flour when I had the bakery, and it was always reliable to turn out a great product that many people loved. I have since experimented with many of their grains. This is the brand I personally use for many different ingredients in my own kitchen.
My husband enjoys eating his granola straight up with milk, while I typically like it as a topper to yogurt or oatmeal. Big chunks of granola also make a great mid-afternoon snack. Even my dog approves!
My favorite combination for granola is Maple Nut. However, my husband prefers Honey Almond. The good news is that there is endless variety to this, so bake what you love!
