Blueberry Almond Milk Granola: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe

Introduction

Blueberry almond milk granola is a perfect blend of crunchy oats, sweet blueberries, and nutty almonds. It’s a versatile and healthy option for breakfast or snacks. Whether you sprinkle it over yogurt, enjoy it with almond milk, or snack on it plain, this granola is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The combination of dried blueberries and almonds adds a burst of flavor and texture, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

To make blueberry almond milk granola, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients, many of which might already be in your pantry:

– Rolled oats

– Almonds (sliced or chopped)

– Dried blueberries

– Almond milk (for serving)

– Coconut oil or olive oil

– Maple syrup or honey (for sweetness)

– Cinnamon and vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

– Pinch of salt

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the oats, almonds, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

2. Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the coconut oil and mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. This mixture helps bind the granola and give it a touch of sweetness.

3. Mixing: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until the oats and almonds are evenly coated. This ensures a crispy, golden texture as the granola bakes.

4. Baking: Spread the granola in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning. Be cautious not to overbake—granola can burn quickly.

5. Adding Blueberries: After baking, let the granola cool completely. Once cooled, stir in the dried blueberries. It’s important not to add them before baking as they can dry out too much or burn.

6. Serving: Your homemade blueberry almond granola is now ready! Serve it with almond milk for a vegan-friendly breakfast, or top off your favorite yogurt for a nutritious parfait. Store the remaining granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to two weeks.

Nutritional Benefits

This granola is packed with nutrients. The oats provide fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you full longer. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, while blueberries are rich in antioxidants. Using almond milk keeps the recipe dairy-free, making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Tips and Variations

– Clumpy Granola: If you prefer chunkier granola, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too much during the process.

– Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap dried blueberries with other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. Fresh blueberries can also be added when serving.

– Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by increasing or reducing the maple syrup or honey based on your preference.

Conclusion

Blueberry almond milk granola is a simple yet flavorful recipe that is easy to customize to your tastes. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought granola, with no added preservatives and full control over the ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a tasty snack, this homemade granola is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.