Description
This Gingerbread Granola recipe combines warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with wholesome oats and almonds, resulting in a crunchy, aromatic granola perfect for breakfast or snacking. Sweetened with molasses and brown sugar, this granola offers a festive twist on a healthy classic, baked to golden perfection and crisped upon cooling.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup sliced or chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or melted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Melt the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil along with the molasses and brown sugar (or maple syrup). Stir continuously until well combined, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced or chopped almonds, coconut flakes if using, and all the warm spices: ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, along with the salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted molasses mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure every oat and nut is evenly coated with the spiced syrup mixture.
- Bake the Granola: Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even browning and to prevent burning. The granola should become golden brown and release a fragrant aroma.
- Cool Completely: Remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, the granola will crisp up to the perfect crunchy texture.
- Store: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks, keeping it fresh and ready to enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar if you prefer a vegan option.
- Feel free to add other nuts or seeds to customize your granola.
- Be sure to stir the granola halfway through baking to avoid burning.
- Allowing the granola to cool fully is crucial for achieving the ideal crispiness.
- Store granola in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
