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The new year is upon us, and it’s time to give our pantry a fresh start! January (Canuary) offers the perfect opportunity to restock your kitchen, especially with nutritious, homemade snacks that will keep you fueled and energized for the year ahead. Our family has nut allergies so this is a perfect nut-free alternative. Making your own granola is a fantastic way to keep your pantry stocked with wholesome, customizable snacks.
Granola is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways – sprinkled on yogurt, eaten as a cereal, or simply snacked on as-is. With a nut-free version, you’ll have a safe and delicious option to enjoy without worrying about allergens. Let’s dive into how you can make your own homemade nut-free granola that will satisfy cravings while keeping your pantry stocked for weeks.
Why Make Nut-Free Granola?
Often times box store granola isn’t safe. Typically it contains nuts or is processed in a facility that processes or may contain them. Homemade is an easy option to fill your pantry and provide a healthy alternative to your family. Before we get to the recipe, here’s why you should consider making homemade granola:
- Customizable: You control the ingredients! Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have a specific dietary preference, you can tailor the recipe to meet your needs.
- Healthy: Granola can be packed with fiber, healthy fats (from seeds), and wholesome grains that provide long-lasting energy.
- Budget-Friendly: Homemade granola is a more affordable option than store-bought versions, plus you can make a big batch that will last for weeks.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: A batch of granola can be prepped in advance and stored for easy breakfasts, snacks, or a grab-and-go option.
Family Friendly Nut-Free Granola
Ingredients
- 2 cups Rolled Oats
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1/3 cup Honey or Maple Syrup
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 2 Tbsp Water
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Optional:
- Flax Seeds
- Sunflower Seeds
- Raisins
- Craisins
- Chocolate Chips
- Shredded Coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the granola from sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. (Optional) sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and or coconut flakes. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), melted butter, water and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir to ensure everything is coated evenly.
- Spread the Granola: Pour the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into an even layer. Press it down slightly with the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure compactness.
- Bake: Bake the granola in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it, as granola can burn quickly. The granola is done when it’s golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruit: Once the granola is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps it crisp up and become that perfect crunchy texture. Once cooled, add your dried fruit and mix it in gently.
- Store: Store the cooled granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks at room temperature, or up to a month in the refrigerator. Extra: You could place granola in a mason jar, then use a mason jar vacuum sealer to remove the oxygen to store longer.
Optional Variations
This recipe serves as a base for a nut-free granola, but the fun part is that you can easily customize it! Here are a few ideas:
- Sweeten it up: Add a dash of brown sugar or coconut sugar for a caramelized touch.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for added warmth.
- Add chocolate: Stir in mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking for a chocolaty twist.
- Boost the protein: Add some hemp seeds or flax seeds for an extra protein boost.
With the new year comes a renewed sense of healthy living and fueling your body with wholesome, nutritious foods. Homemade nut-free granola is the perfect addition to your pantry restock, providing a delicious, customizable snack option that fits the bill for almost any diet. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and can last for weeks – ensuring that your pantry is stocked with one less store-bought snack. Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying DIY project that can be shared with family and friends!
So, next time you’re thinking of replenishing your pantry, don’t forget to add these ingredients to make your own nut-free granola. Here’s to a happy, healthy start to 2025!
“May Adonai bless you and keep you. May Adonai bless you and keep you. May Adonai lift up his face towards you and give you peace.”
– Numbers 6:24-26
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