Homemade Granola

The humble granola has been around since the mid 1800’s and whilst it has adapted somewhat over the years, it is still a much loved breakfast staple. If you’re looking to branch out and make your own homemade granola, this recipe really is so easy you’ll wish you’d tried it sooner. We made ours with olive oil to keep it vegan but making it with a little butter tastes equally delicious.

Ingredients

• 180ml maple syrup / honey
• 6-8 tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla essence
• 300g organic rolled oats
• 80g almonds
• 1tsp cinnamon (add more if you like the taste to be stronger)
• 80g dried cranberries
• 50g coconut desiccated (flaked is also delicious)

Method

1. Pre-heat the oven 150°c fan / 130°c gas. In a large bowl, mix together the oil, maple syrup, honey and vanilla until well combined. Tip in the oats and almonds and mix together well.
2. Tip the granola onto a large baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, remove and mix in the coconut and dried cranberries before placing the tray back in the oven for a further 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Gently scrape the granola onto a flat tray to cool. Enjoy with cold milk or serve to guests with fresh fruit and a good dollop of Greek yogurt.

Top tips: The granola can be stored in an airtight container for a few weeks. Add in seeds or switch up the dried fruit for a change of flavour (pumpkin seeds are particularly tasty).

Images: HM

Blossom Calico Tableware by Burleigh Pottery