Vanilla Almond Granola

Name: Vanilla Almond Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Classics

I love making my own granola at home, and this Vanilla Almond Granola has become a cherished recipe in our household. With its crispy texture, sweet vanilla essence, and nutty almond flavor, it’s the perfect addition to my morning yogurt or as a healthy snack throughout the day. Plus, I can control the ingredients, ensuring it’s both nutritious and delicious. Preparing this granola is easy and allows me to experiment with different nuts and seeds based on what I have on hand, creating a wholesome breakfast option that never gets boring.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:03:35.845Z

I first stumbled upon this granola recipe during a health-focused cooking class, and I was immediately drawn to how simple and flavorful it was. The combination of oats, almonds, and a hint of vanilla was so inviting. I decided to try making it at home and was thrilled with the results. Everyone in my family loved it, and it quickly became a staple in our breakfasts and snack times.

One detail that really elevates this recipe is toasting the nuts lightly before mixing them with the oats – it enhances the flavor depth significantly! I also like adding a splash of maple syrup for that extra sweetness. Adjusting the ingredients to suit my taste has made this granola a versatile favorite that I can enjoy any time of day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously nutty and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with yogurt or milk
Customizable ingredients allow you to tailor it to your taste
Homemade goodness without preservatives or artificial flavors

Perfecting the Crunch

To achieve the ideal crunch in your Vanilla Almond Granola, be sure to bake it until you see a golden brown color around the edges. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on it because every oven heats differently. Stirring the granola halfway through the baking process helps ensure even toasting, preventing some pieces from burning while others remain chewy.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, let your granola cool undisturbed after baking. This allows it to clump together, giving you delicious clusters when you break it apart. Just be gentle when stirring before baking; too much agitation in the mixture can break those clusters apart.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

Feel free to customize your granola by replacing the almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans, which add their own unique flavor profiles. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a perfect substitute. These seeds also pack a nutritious punch, ensuring your granola stays wholesome without sacrificing taste.

For a touch of sweetness without using honey or maple syrup, consider adding mashed ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce. In addition to keeping the granola moist, these options can enhance the flavor while providing natural sugars.

Ingredients

Granola Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all the oats and almonds are evenly coated.

Spread and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.

Cool and Store

Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add dried fruits or other nuts after baking for added texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and crunch of your Vanilla Almond Granola. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just allow it to cool completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen granola, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you notice it has lost some crunch, you can briefly re-toast it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain that delightful crispness.

Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Almond Granola is incredibly versatile. I love it sprinkled over my morning yogurt for added texture or paired with some fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas for a nutritious breakfast. It can also be enjoyed with milk, as a classic granola cereal, making it a great option for a quick meal on busy mornings.

For an extra treat, try adding a handful of dark chocolate chips to the granola after it has cooled. This adds a delightful richness, transforming your healthy snack into an indulgence. You can also use the granola as a topping for ice cream or smoothie bowls for a satisfying crunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts, pecans, or any favorite nut you prefer.

→ How long will this granola last?

Homemade granola stored in an airtight container can last up to two weeks.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ Is it possible to reduce the sweetness?

Sure! You can cut down on the honey or syrup and use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.