Vanilla Almond Granola

Name: Vanilla Almond Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 3 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Nourishing Favorites

I love making my own granola at home, and this Vanilla Almond Granola recipe is a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of toasty oats, crunchy almonds, and a hint of vanilla brings a warm and inviting aroma to my mornings. It’s so satisfying to create something wholesome from simple ingredients, and I enjoy customizing it with my favorite add-ins. Whether it's served with yogurt, milk, or simply enjoyed by the handful, this granola is a delicious and nutritious way to start the day!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:01:36.649Z

Creating this Vanilla Almond Granola was a delightful adventure in flavor and texture for me. I remember the first time my kitchen filled with the sweet and nutty scents while the granola baked. It’s all about balancing the oats and nuts with just the right amount of sweetness. I found that adding a touch of maple syrup brings out the best in the almonds and vanilla.

One tip I discovered is to keep an eye on the granola as it bakes. Stirring it halfway through ensures it toasts evenly, preventing any burnt bits. The result is a perfect golden-brown crunch that I can't resist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy oats mixed with toasted almonds for the perfect texture
Subtle sweetness balanced with vanilla that enhances every bite
Great as a breakfast or snack option, versatile for all occasions

Understanding Your Ingredients

The quality of the oats you use plays a significant role in the texture of your granola. Rolled oats provide a chewy base, while quick oats may result in a less desirable mushy consistency. If you prefer a heartier granola, try using old-fashioned rolled oats, which maintain their shape and offer that satisfying crunch after baking. Pay attention to the brand of maple syrup too, as pure maple syrup gives a distinct flavor that enhances the overall sweetness and complements the vanilla beautifully.

Almonds not only add crunch but also contribute healthy fats and proteins to this granola. Whether you choose sliced, slivered, or chopped almonds, toasting them before mixing can magnify their flavor. If you are looking to switch things up, consider substituting almonds with walnuts or pecans; just remember they may alter the flavor slightly, so use varieties that you enjoy.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Granola

To achieve the ideal granola texture, it's essential to bake it evenly. Spreading the mixture in an even layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet is crucial. Use a spatula to flatten it out, which allows the heat to circulate properly. Stirring halfway through the baking process ensures even toasting—a tip I always follow to prevent burning. Your granola should turn golden brown after about 20 minutes, but keep an eye on it because ovens can vary in temperature.

Once out of the oven, let your granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is vital as it allows the sugars to harden, resulting in that delightful clumping we all love. If you prefer clumpier granola, avoid stirring too much after baking. If you notice your granola isn't clumping together, feel free to spritz it with a little water and return it to the oven for another few minutes to help it stick.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a batch of delicious granola.

Granola Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to store your granola in an air-tight container to keep it fresh.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your homemade granola.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, sliced almonds, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

Combine and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir well to coat evenly. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Cool and Store

Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before storing in an airtight container.

Your homemade granola is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to mix things up
coconut flakes also make a delightful addition!

Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Almond Granola is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various toppings. I love serving it over Greek yogurt with fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast. You can also incorporate it into smoothies, using it as a crunchy topping. Another idea is to sprinkle it on oatmeal or pancakes to elevate your breakfast experience.

For a snack, enjoy it straight from the jar or mix it with dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and chewiness. You can even use it as a topping for desserts like ice cream or as an ingredient in granola bars.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your granola. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container to keep it crunchy. It can typically last for 2–3 weeks at room temperature, but if you want to prolong its shelf life, consider freezing it. Just ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.

If you decide to make a large batch, think about portioning it into smaller containers. This way, you can grab a serving size whenever you want without exposing the entire batch to air each time. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes after removing it from the freezer before digging in!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?

Yes, honey can be used instead of maple syrup, but it will give a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store the granola?

Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make this granola gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the granola is gluten-free.

→ What can I add to this granola?

Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or even chocolate chips can be added for extra flavor!