Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are whole oats that have been steamed and then flattened with large rollers. This process makes them quicker to cook than steel-cut oats while maintaining their nutritional benefits. Rolled oats are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a popular choice for healthy recipes, including granola.

Using rolled oats in your granola recipe offers several advantages:

Texture: Rolled oats provide a chewy texture that is essential for a satisfying granola.
Nutrition: They are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, helping you feel full longer.
Versatility: Rolled oats can easily be combined with various nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, allowing for endless customization.

Here’s a simple and customizable granola recipe featuring rolled oats:

Rolled Oats: 6 cups
Nuts: 2 cups (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
Seeds: 1 cup (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
Sweetener: ½ cup (maple syrup or honey)
Oil: ½ cup (olive oil or avocado oil)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Optional Add-ins: Dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries), spices (e.g., cinnamon), and coconut flakes.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the sweetener and oil until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the granola mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
Cool and Store: Let the granola cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

To achieve those coveted granola clusters, press the mixture down into the baking sheet before baking. After baking, allow it to cool completely without stirring, which will help it stick together.

Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on your preferences. For a savory twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract.

Store your homemade granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed within two weeks, but it can last longer if kept in the refrigerator.

While you can use quick oats, they will produce a different texture. Quick oats tend to become mushy when baked, so rolled oats are preferable for granola.

You can reduce the amount of sweetener or substitute it with healthier options like mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, using a variety of nuts and seeds increases the nutritional value.

Granola can be used in various ways beyond breakfast. Sprinkle it over yogurt, mix it into smoothies, or use it as a topping for desserts.

Making homemade granola with rolled oats is not only simple but also a rewarding experience. With the ability to customize ingredients to suit your taste, you can create a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack that your whole family will love. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful crunch of your own homemade granola!