#Cranberry Almond Granola
##Introduction
Begin your day right, or keep your snack time healthy with our easy-to-make Cranberry Almond Granola. Its simple recipe ensures you get delicious taste in every bite and it pairs perfectly with yogurt, milk or even all by itself. The recipe makes 8 cups and can be prepared in just 35 minutes!
##Why Make This Recipe
Besides being a healthy snack option, this Cranberry Almond Granola is loaded with the goodness of oats, almonds and cranberries. It’s simple to prepare and great if you’re always on the go. This granola is also versatile and can be used as a topping on your favorite foods like banana bread, smoothie bowls, and pancakes.
##How to Make Cranberry Almond Granola
The process to make Cranberry Almond Granola is pretty straightforward and requires simple ingredients you might already have on hand.
##Ingredients
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
##Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, sliced almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
4. Next, pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients, mixing until everything is well coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool, then stir in the dried cranberries.
8. Enjoy your granola with your favorite yogurt or just as a crunchy snack!
##How to Serve Cranberry Almond Granola
Serve this granola onto your favorite yogurt, sprinkle it over oatmeal, or top it on a banana smothered in peanut butter. It’s also just as delicious to be eaten on its own.
##How to Store Cranberry Almond Granola
Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
##Tips to Make Cranberry Almond Granola
– Make sure to stir the granola halfway while baking. This ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
– Let the granola cool completely before storing it.
– You can substitute the almonds with your favorite nuts like pecans or walnuts.
##Variation
You can add a hint of chocolate flavor to the granola by mixing in some unsweetened cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips.
##FAQs
1. **Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?**
Rolled oats are recommended as they give the best texture to granola. Quick oats might make it more mushy than crispy.
2. **Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?**
Dried cranberries are ideal for granola. Fresh cranberries may release too much juice causing the granola to be less crispy.
3. **Can I add other dried fruits to the granola?**
Yes, you can add other dried fruits if you wish. Raisins or chopped dates would be good options.