Orange & Almond Granola

Granola is a versatile breakfast option that’s healthy, satisfying, and easy to customize to your personal tastes. Adding orange zest and almonds not only enhances the flavor but also packs a nutritious punch. This Orange & Almond Granola recipe is loaded with wholesome ingredients and is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a crunchy topping for yogurt or desserts.

Why Orange & Almond Granola?

The combination of oranges and almonds adds a delightful twist to the traditional granola. Here are a few reasons why this pairing works so well:

• Oranges bring a refreshing citrusy flavor that brightens the granola while also adding a dose of Vitamin C.
• Almonds provide a rich nutty flavor along with healthy fats, fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like Vitamin E and magnesium.

Now, let’s get into the recipe!

Orange & Almond Granola Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raw almonds (chopped or whole, as per preference)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup flaxseeds or chia seeds
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan version)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• A pinch of sea salt
• Optional: dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, flaxseeds (or chia seeds), and shredded coconut if using. This forms the base of your granola.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt until everything is well combined.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all the oats and almonds are evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Watch carefully toward the end to prevent burning, as granola can brown quickly.
7. Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely. The granola will crisp up as it cools.
8. After cooling, you can mix in your choice of dried fruits, such as cranberries, raisins, or even dried apricots for extra flavor and texture.
9. Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Health Benefits of Orange & Almond Granola

This homemade granola is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition:

• Oats are high in fiber, which helps keep you full and supports heart health.
• Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E.
• Oranges provide a refreshing dose of Vitamin C, helping to boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.
• Flaxseeds or chia seeds add omega-3 fatty acids and fiber to the mix, enhancing the nutritional value.
• By using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, this granola avoids refined sugars while providing a naturally sweet flavor.

Ways to Enjoy Orange & Almond Granola

• With yogurt: Top your favorite Greek or plant-based yogurt with a sprinkle of granola for a filling and satisfying breakfast or snack.
• As a cereal: Simply add milk or a dairy-free alternative to a bowl of granola for a crunchy and refreshing start to your day.
• Smoothie bowls: Garnish your smoothie bowls with granola for an added crunch and nutritional boost.
• On desserts: Use it as a topping for desserts like ice cream or fruit parfaits for a crunchy contrast.

Tips for the Perfect Granola:

1. Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter granola, you can add more honey or maple syrup.
2. Substitute or add nuts: You can swap almonds for other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews.
3. Experiment with flavors: Add spices like ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
4. Make it gluten-free: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if needed.

Making Orange & Almond Granola at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a wholesome, nutritious option that fits your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this vibrant citrus and almond blend is sure to satisfy!

Nutritional Chart (Per Serving: 1/2 cup)

Key Nutrients Breakdown:

• Calories: The granola is calorie-dense due to the healthy fats from almonds and coconut oil, but it provides sustained energy, making it a filling breakfast or snack.
• Healthy Fats: With 12g of fat per serving, mainly from almonds and coconut oil, this recipe includes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a small amount of saturated fat.
• Fiber: At around 5g of fiber, this granola supports digestive health and helps keep you full.
• Protein: With about 5g of protein, largely from almonds and oats, it helps in muscle repair and overall body function.
• Sugar: The natural sweetness from orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), and optional dried fruits adds about 8g of sugar. You can reduce the sweeteners if you want to lower the sugar content.
• Vitamin C: Thanks to the orange zest and juice, each serving provides a small but meaningful amount of Vitamin C, helping boost your immune system.
• Magnesium & Vitamin E: Almonds are rich in magnesium and Vitamin E, which support nerve function, muscle health, and act as antioxidants.

This granola is a well-balanced option, rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, and low in processed sugars, making it a great choice for a nutritious start to the day!