Description
This Mixed Berry Granola recipe combines old fashioned oats, nuts, chia seeds, and a medley of freeze-dried berries for a crunchy, flavorful breakfast or snack. Sweetened with maple syrup and jam, and lightly spiced with cinnamon, this granola is baked to golden perfection and is perfect for topping yogurt, smoothie bowls, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups old fashioned oats
- 1 tsp chia seeds
- ½ tsp Kosher or fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup raspberry or strawberry jam/preserves
Additions
- 1 cup freeze-dried berries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 300℉ (150℃). Line a 9 by 13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and for easy clean-up.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients except the freeze-dried berries. Stir thoroughly to ensure the oats, nuts, seeds, and spices are well coated with the oils, syrup, and jam, which bind the granola together.
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a single layer. Make sure the pieces are touching each other to promote clumping during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes until the granola turns golden brown. Check occasionally to prevent burning and rotate the pan if needed for even baking.
- Cool Down: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool in the pan undisturbed for 15-20 minutes. As it cools, it will harden and become crisp.
- Break and Add Berries: Once cool to the touch, break the solid sheet of granola into chunks using your hands. Add the freeze-dried berries to the broken granola and gently toss to combine.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately as a snack or with yogurt, milk, or smoothie bowls. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add coconut flakes or other nuts like pecans or walnuts.
- Use a silicone mat or parchment paper to avoid sticking and ease cleaning.
- The bake time can vary depending on your oven; watch closely after 35 minutes.
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh for up to two weeks.
- Freeze-dried berries are added at the end to retain their crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
