Vanilla Almond Granola

Name: Vanilla Almond Granola
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1/2 tsp salt; Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Recipes

I love starting my day with a wholesome bowl of Vanilla Almond Granola. It’s my personal favorite because it combines crunchy oats with the nutty flavor of almonds and the sweetness of vanilla. Making this granola from scratch means I know exactly what goes into it, and it’s a fun kitchen project. Whether I enjoy it with yogurt or milk, each bite is a delicious crunch that kickstarts my morning. Plus, the aroma of baking oats and almonds filling the kitchen is simply heavenly!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:27:35.443Z

I’ve experimented with various granola recipes, but this Vanilla Almond Granola strikes the perfect balance between taste and health. The use of almond extract elevates the flavor profile, giving it that rich, nutty essence that I crave. I like to add a handful of dried fruit for an extra burst of sweetness, but you can customize it based on your preferences!

One of my best tips is to keep an eye on the granola as it bakes. Stirring it halfway through the cooking time ensures that it toasts evenly, avoiding any burnt bits. Once it cools, it becomes irresistibly crunchy and stays fresh for weeks in an airtight container. Trust me, you’ll want this in your pantry!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture that satisfies every bite
Deliciously fragrant vanilla paired with almonds
Easy to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts

Secrets to Perfect Granola

Achieving the perfect granola texture requires attention to the moisture content. The combination of almond butter and honey or maple syrup not only adds sweetness but also binds the oats and almonds together, creating those delightful clusters. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider reducing the almond butter slightly. It'll allow for more air circulation during baking, leading to a crispier finish. Remember to keep an eye on the granola as it bakes; it’s easy to go from perfectly toasted to burnt in just a minute.

One tip for ensuring even cooking is to stir the granola halfway through baking. This encourages uniform browning and prevents any parts from becoming overly dark. Look for a golden-brown color around the edges as a signal that your granola is ready to come out. If you prefer clumpier granola, don’t stir too much! Simply pressing the mixture into the pan will help create those satisfying clusters that everyone loves.

Customization and Variations

The beauty of this granola recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out almonds for your favorite nuts—walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts can bring new flavors and textures. Additionally, for a different sweetness profile, try substituting maple syrup with agave syrup or brown sugar. Each substitution will impact not just the taste, but the overall texture, so choose what you enjoy most. If you need a nut-free version, simply increase the oats and add sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch.

When it comes to spices, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture before baking for an extra layer of warmth and richness. You can also incorporate cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. If you’re using dried fruits, adding them after baking ensures they maintain their chewy texture and vibrant color. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you’re adding particularly sweet fruits to the mix!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your own delicious Vanilla Almond Granola:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)

Combine these ingredients for a perfect mix!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your granola:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, sliced almonds, salt, honey or maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well until the oats and almonds are evenly coated.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down gently for clumps.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to encourage even toasting. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Cool and Store

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely. If desired, mix in dried fruits. Once cool, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Your homemade granola is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute different nuts and sweeteners based on what you have at home! This granola also makes a great gift when packaged nicely in a jar.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your granola fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container, ideally in a cool, dark place like a pantry. It should last for about two weeks, but I find it’s best enjoyed within the first week for optimal texture. If you notice it losing its crunch, you can revive it by spreading it on a baking sheet and warming it in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes—just be sure to stir it every few minutes.

If you're batch cooking, consider freezing some of your granola to extend its shelf life. Simply portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying it again. This way, you can have your homemade granola ready for those busy mornings.

Serving Suggestions

Granola is incredibly versatile in how you can serve it. Whether you enjoy it with milk, yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls, it adds a delicious crunch that elevates any meal. For a quick breakfast, I often mix my granola with Greek yogurt and add a drizzle of honey and fresh fruit. This not only creates a balanced meal but also makes for a visually appealing dish.

For an indulgent treat, try it sprinkled over vanilla ice cream or mixed into homemade energy bars. You can even use it as a crust for cheesecakes or tarts, adding that perfect crunch and flavor. The possibilities are endless, and each serving can be a little different, keeping your breakfast exciting throughout the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does homemade granola last?

When stored in an airtight container, homemade granola can last for about 2-3 weeks.

→ Can I use gluten-free oats?

Yes! Just make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats to keep the recipe gluten-free.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this granola vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! This granola is versatile; you can mix in your favorite nuts, seeds, or spices.