Almond Cherry Granola

Granola is such a fantastic way to kick off your day, isn’t it? This Almond Cherry Granola combines chewy dried cherries and crunchy almonds, creating a balance that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack anytime. Making your own granola at home is not only easy, but it also allows you to control the flavors and ingredients. Plus, there’s something so rewarding about pulling a warm batch out of the oven, knowing you’ve created a wholesome treat tailored just to your taste. Imagine munching on clumps of golden-brown goodness while indulging in the sweet and nutty aroma filling your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it on top of yogurt, mixed into smoothies, or right from the jar, this Almond Cherry Granola will become a go-to in your home. Let’s walk you through how to make it!

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Why This Recipe Works

Granola is a versatile breakfast option that can easily be customized, making it suitable for anyone’s taste. This Almond Cherry Granola recipe strikes the perfect balance between chewy and crunchy textures, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients. With the sweetness of dried cherries and the satisfying crunch of almonds, this recipe is designed to keep you energized and satiated throughout your busy morning. You can enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or even as a stand-alone snack. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both comforting and energizing. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making every bite worthwhile.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cherry Granola

You’ll fall in love with this Almond Cherry Granola not just for its delicious flavor but also for its ease of preparation. It’s fantastic for meal prep; you can whip up a large batch and keep it on hand for a week’s worth of breakfasts or snacks. Imagine pouring some into a bowl with yogurt for a quick breakfast or grabbing a handful before running out the door. Not only does this granola promise to tantalize your taste buds, but it also packs enough nutrients to fuel your day. It brings together simple ingredients to create something truly delightful and satisfying.

Ingredients for Almond Cherry Granola

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup mild-tasting olive oil
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup dried cherries (sweet or sweetened tart)

Preparing Your Almond Cherry Granola

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preparing a rimmed baking sheet is next; just line it with parchment paper to make cleanup super easy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, sliced almonds, unsweetened coconut flakes, and coarse kosher salt. Stir everything together well. This step ensures that every bit of dry mix has a chance to interact with all those flavors.

Melt Wet Ingredients

Now, let’s focus on the wet ingredients. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt your unsalted butter along with granulated sugar, pure maple syrup, and mild-tasting olive oil. Keep stirring until the sugar just dissolves. Once you’re done, take it off the heat and add in almond and vanilla extracts. Mix well to combine those rich flavors.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the melted liquid over your dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until everything is coated. You want each bit of the mix to be moistened, which will help create clusters as it bakes.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer this delightful mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Spread it out into an even layer so that it bakes uniformly.

Bake to Perfection

Pop your granola into the preheated oven. It should take about 30 minutes to bake. Stir it 1-2 times during cooking to ensure an even golden color. Keep your eye on it; you’re looking for a lightly golden hue and a mostly dry texture.

Add Dried Cherries

As soon as you take the granola out of the oven, fold in the dried cherries. Mix them well so they’re evenly distributed throughout the crunchy goodness.

Cool and Store

Allow the granola to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Your Almond Cherry Granola can be served in various delicious ways. Pour it over Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast. It also works beautifully as a topping for smoothie bowls or a flavorful addition to your favorite cereals or milk. Feel free to get creative!

Tips for Success

• For evenly sized clusters, try not to stir the granola too much while it’s baking.
• You can experiment with different nuts or sweeteners to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Ensuring the granola cools completely helps achieve that perfect crunch that everyone loves.

Variations

Mix things up by substituting dried cherries with other fruits like cranberries or apricots. Want to boost nutrition? Toss in some pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture. If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, include chocolate chips or drizzle melted dark chocolate on top after baking.

Storage Tips

To keep your Almond Cherry Granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing portions so you can enjoy them later.

Pairing Ideas

This granola pairs beautifully with almond milk or coconut yogurt, and fresh fruit adds a nice touch. For a delightful snack, you can enjoy it on its own or mix it into energy bites for an added boost.

FAQs

1. Can I make Almond Cherry Granola nut-free?
Yes, just leave out the almonds or swap them for seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead.

2. How long does this granola keep?
If stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

3. Can I substitute the butter?
For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

4. Is this granola gluten-free?
If you want to make it gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.

5. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Fresh cherries have a higher moisture content and won’t provide the same texture; it’s best to stick with dried cherries for this recipe.

This Almond Cherry Granola is more than just a breakfast item; it’s a wholesome, energy-packed snack that keeps well in your pantry. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt or right out of the jar, its delightful combination of flavors and textures is a fantastic way to start your day or satisfy your cravings anytime. Happy munching!

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