You probably have a favorite granola. Maybe it’s storebought; maybe it’s homemade. Like many things, homemade granola is cheaper and better than the store-bought version. This quinoa granola is a perfect example because it comes together in no time and packs in extra fiber, texture, and flavor from the quinoa. Obviously, any recipe that is both delicious AND saves you money is an exciting recipe in my book.
grab these ingredients
This granola is pretty simple to make. It has some grains, some sweet, and some crunch! Jump to the recipe card for exact measurements – this is just an overview!
Quinoa: While fiber-filled quinoa is typically cooked to soften it, baking it gives it a totally new texture! The result is crunchy and exciting! Feel free to use any color. Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are a must (no, steel cut will not work). Rolled oats have been pressed and rolled, allowing them to soften as they bake. Nuts: I use a mix of chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, and walnuts, but you can use whatever type of nut you prefer. Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is one of my favorite sweeteners. It is naturally occurring but has a wonderfully warm and unique flavor that adds sweetness and flavor to the granola. Honey or agave will work too. Black Strap Molasses: Molasses is another sweetener that also adds a slightly nutty and smokey flavor. Oil: Any neutral oil will work like coconut, olive, or vegetable oil. Spices and Add-Ins: Cinnamon and vanilla are musts, but you could also add dried fruit or chocolate chips.
here’s how to make it
Granola may be expensive in the store and seem labor-intensive, but I promise it is super easy to make! So preheat your oven and let’s get cooking. (Jump to the recipe for the full printable recipe.)
Granola: Baked rolled oats that originated in New York. Muesli: Unbaked rolled oats with higher protein content and less sugar originated in Switzerland around the same time as granola, intended to provide high-calorie nutrition to hospitalized patients.
Step 1: Mix the Dry IngredientsIn a large bowl, combine quinoa, oats, nuts, cinnamon, and salt. Step 2: Add the Wet IngredientsStir in maple syrup, molasses, oil, and vanilla. Step 3: BakeSpread the mixture out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Step 4: CoolAllow quinoa granola to cool on the pan fully before breaking into pieces. It will harden as it cools. Step 5: Add the ExtrasOnce cool, break into bite-sized pieces, then stir in dried fruit (or chocolate chips).
Granola Variations
As I mentioned, this granola can be totally customized. Here are just a few ideas that I love! Stuck in The Tropics: For this mix, try using macadamia nuts, dried pineapple, and shredded coconut for add-ins. Christmas Spirit: For a festive take on the granola, add chopped dates for the dried fruit and stick to just pecans for the nuts. You could also add 1 Tbsp of pumpkin pie spice. Chocolate Chip Cookie: This is probably my favorite type of granola (the chocolate kind). For this one, use walnuts for the nuts and swap out dried fruit for chocolate chips. Yum!
