There’s something undeniably delightful about starting the day with a bowl of creamy yogurt topped with crunchy homemade granola. It brings back memories of lazy Sunday breakfasts at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where the sweet smell of baked oats filled the air, and we would linger over conversations about everything and nothing. I love this recipe because it’s so customizable—the yogurt can be whatever flavor you fancy, and the granola can include all your favorite nuts and fruits. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, a perfect way to kickstart the day!
Making homemade granola is far easier than you might think, and it’s way healthier than anything you’ll find in the store, and oh-so-delicious! I like to often experiment with different ingredients, but today, I’ll share my go-to recipe that never disappoints. Let’s dive in!
What’s in Yogurt with Homemade Granola?
Yogurt: I typically use plain Greek yogurt for its thick and creamy texture, but feel free to choose your favorite flavor. If you want something a bit sweeter without the added sugars, naturally flavored yogurt can be a delightful touch.
Oats: Rolled oats are the base of this granola. They provide a satisfying crunch and heartiness. I recommend using old-fashioned oats rather than instant ones for the best texture and flavor.
Nuts: I adore using a mix of walnuts, almonds, and pecans for a variety of flavors and crunch. But you can use any nuts you enjoy, just keep it to about one cup!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup are must-haves to bind everything together and add sweetness. I usually go for a good raw honey for an added health boost.
Spices: Cinnamon is my favorite spice here! It adds warmth and depth, but a bit of nutmeg or ginger can also be a lovely addition.
Dried Fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or apricots add a lovely chewy texture and sweetness to your granola. I like to add them after baking so they won’t dry out.
Is Yogurt with Homemade Granola Good for You?
Absolutely! This breakfast is nutritious and versatile.
Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein, it helps you feel fuller for longer and aids in muscle maintenance. Plus, it’s loaded with probiotics which are great for gut health.
Oats: Whole grain oats are high in fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion, and they help you feel satisfied, keeping those pesky hunger pangs at bay.
Nuts: They’re rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They also provide a good dose of vitamins and minerals, which is like a mini-nutritional boost with every bite!
While there’s nothing harmful about enjoying this delightful meal, moderation is key, especially with sweeteners and nuts, as they can pile on the calories. The great thing is you can usually adjust the sweetness and portion sizes to fit your dietary needs.
Ingredients for Yogurt with Homemade Granola
– 2 cups of rolled oats
– 1 cup of mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
– 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
– 1 cup of dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
– 4 cups of yogurt (Greek or your favorite)
*Serves 4-6 people.*
How to Make Yogurt with Homemade Granola?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warm oven will help crisp up our granola perfectly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, mixed nuts, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup) and oil until combined. Pour this mixture over the oat and nut mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
5. Once golden brown, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool. This is when it will firm up into those delicious crunchy clusters!
6. Once cooled, toss in your dried fruits and mix well.
7. Serve your yogurt in bowls topped with a generous amount of homemade granola. Enjoy every spoonful!
Granola Tips and Tricks!
– **Mix it Up**: Don’t hesitate to experiment with various nuts, seeds, or spices! You could try adding chia seeds or even a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
– **Flavoring**: To make your yogurt even more interesting, you can add sliced fresh fruits like bananas, berries, or even a dollop of your favorite jam!
– **Storage**: Store the granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long! I usually stash mine in the fridge; it keeps it fresher, but it’s also perfectly fine in your pantry.
– **Batch Cooking**: This granola is great for meal prepping. Make a big batch and have it ready for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
I just can’t stress enough how much joy this homemade yogurt with granola has brought to my mornings. It’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. I urge you to try this recipe—I promise it’ll bring a little sunshine to your breakfast table! Feel free to tweak it to your liking and share your experiences. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!