Name: Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups old fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup canola oil

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to add a delightful crunch and cozy warmth to your mornings or snacks, this Vanilla Almond Granola is your new best friend. It melds the comforting aroma of pure vanilla with the nutty richness of almonds, creating a perfectly balanced treat that’s lightly sweetened and wonderfully wholesome. Whether sprinkled over yogurt, mixed into a smoothie, or enjoyed by the handful, this Vanilla Almond Granola transforms everyday moments into little celebrations of flavor and texture.

Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Vanilla Almond Granola lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building its irresistible character. From the hearty oats that give you that satisfying crunch to the sweet hints of molasses that add depth, every component contributes to the perfect granola experience.

Old fashioned rolled oats (3 cups): The heart of granola, providing a chewy, rustic texture and wholesome fiber.
Sliced almonds (1 cup): Adds nutty crunch and subtle buttery flavor, elevating both texture and taste.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): A warm sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses a cozy spice note, enhancing warmth and complexity.
Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle earthy aroma that complements cinnamon perfectly.
Honey (1/2 cup): Natural sweetness that helps bind the granola and gives it a golden sheen.
Molasses (1/4 cup): Adds rich depth and a touch of smoky sweetness that rounds out flavors.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): The star ingredient for that signature Vanilla Almond Granola aroma and flavor.
Canola oil (1/4 cup): Binds and crisps the granola while keeping it lightly tender.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and brings out the other flavors beautifully.

How to Make Vanilla Almond Granola

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 300°F, ensuring it’s fully preheated before you slide your granola in. This moderate temperature will toast everything evenly, allowing the flavors to meld without burning the nuts or oats.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sliced almonds. This blend not only gives the granola its signature crunchy texture but also layers those warm, comforting spice notes that make this recipe so inviting.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract, honey, molasses, and canola oil to your dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until every oat and almond is beautifully coated. The honey and molasses act like a natural glue, encouraging crisp clusters to form while infusing a delicious depth of flavor.

Step 4: Spread and Bake

Spread the granola evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Bake for 40 minutes, remembering to stir and rotate your pan halfway through to toast the mixture uniformly for that perfect golden crunch.

Step 5: Cool Completely

Once baked, transfer the granola to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key to preserving the clusters and ensuring your Vanilla Almond Granola stays crisp rather than soggy.

How to Serve Vanilla Almond Granola

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of Vanilla Almond Granola over creamy yogurt topped with fresh berries for a delightful breakfast or snack. Its crunchy texture makes every spoonful extra special, while the subtle vanilla and almond flavors play beautifully with fruit.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a bowl of warm oatmeal or creamy smoothie bowls. The granola adds an exciting textural contrast and a burst of natural sweetness that complements these softer dishes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your Vanilla Almond Granola in parfait glasses with Greek yogurt and fruit compote for an elegant brunch option. Or use it as a topping for baked apples or roasted pears; the granola’s toasted almonds and vanilla notes create a cozy autumnal treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Vanilla Almond Granola keeps best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps it crunchy and fresh, ready to brighten your breakfasts or snacks whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep your granola longer, freezing is a great option. Store the granola in a sealed freezer bag or container and it will maintain its freshness for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before use.

Reheating

While granola is often enjoyed cold, you can warm it slightly in a dry skillet or in the oven at low heat to bring out its toasted aroma and crispiness. This is perfect if you like your granola just a bit warm on chilly mornings.

FAQs

Can I substitute the almonds for other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts make fantastic alternatives and will give your granola a new flavor twist while maintaining that essential crunch.

Is this Vanilla Almond Granola gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your ingredients to avoid any cross-contamination.

How do I get bigger clusters in my granola?

Press down gently on the granola mixture before baking and avoid stirring too much during baking. The honey and molasses act as a binding agent that helps clusters form more easily.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup is a wonderful substitute that adds a slightly different but equally delicious sweetness to your Vanilla Almond Granola.

What’s the best way to enjoy Vanilla Almond Granola as a snack?

Simply enjoy it straight from the jar or pack it in your lunchbox for a healthy, crunchy pick-me-up anytime. Its balance of sweet and nutty flavors makes it addictive in the best possible way.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Vanilla Almond Granola. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and nutritious. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try and finding your own favorite ways to eat it—whether it’s breakfast, snack time, or a creative dessert topper. Your mornings deserve the delicious crunch and heartwarming vanilla scent this granola brings!

Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: About 6 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A crunchy and flavorful homemade Vanilla Almond Granola recipe, perfect as a healthy snack or a delicious topping for yogurt and milk, combining the sweetness of honey and molasses with warm spices and toasted almonds.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for slow roasting the granola evenly.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, sliced almonds, and kosher salt. Stir until well mixed for an even distribution of flavors.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the honey, molasses, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Stir the mixture thoroughly until every oat and almond is coated with the sticky, sweet blend.
Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture evenly in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake the Granola: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, stirring and rotating the pan halfway through at 20 minutes. This helps the granola bake evenly and prevents burning.
Cool Completely: Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling process helps it crisp up and become crunchy.
Store and Serve: Once cooled, store the granola in an airtight jar or container. Enjoy it as a snack, or serve with yogurt, milk, or fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast or treat!

Notes

Make sure to stir the granola halfway through baking to ensure even toasting and to prevent burning.
You can substitute canola oil with coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries after baking to avoid moisture affecting the crispiness.
For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Snack, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American