Homemade About Time Granola Clusters - Cinnamon - Recipe: Crunchy, Cinnamon-Spiced Perfection

Category: Breakfast

Introduction

About Time Granola Clusters have become a favorite for many due to their crunchy texture and flavorful profile. The Cinnamon variety stands out with its warm, spicy notes and sweet undertones, making it a delightful start to the day. While convenient, store-bought options can be pricey and contain preservatives. Making it at home allows for customization, cost savings, and better control over ingredients, resulting in a healthier and tastier product.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own granola clusters offers numerous benefits. You can reduce sugar content, use higher-quality ingredients, and add your preferred nuts or seeds. It's also cost-effective and allows for experimentation with various flavors, ensuring each batch meets your dietary needs and preferences.

Personal Anecdote

I began making homemade granola after realizing how much sugar was in store-bought options. Experimenting with different ingredients, I found that using honey and maple syrup provided a richer flavor without refined sugars. Adding nuts and seeds not only enhanced nutrition but also the texture, making each cluster a perfect blend of crunch and spice.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:40 minutes
• **Yield:6 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 4 cups (400g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup (60g) pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp (30g) ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp (5g) ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup
• 2 tbsp (30g) coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
• Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, warm honey, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil over low heat until smooth. Stir in vanilla.
• Combine Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and mix until everything is well-coated.
• Bake: Spread mixture on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway, until lightly toasted.
• Cool and Cluster: Let cool completely on the sheet. Break into clusters once cool.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to a month or freeze for 3 months.

Variations & Customization

• Low-Sugar Version: Use less honey and maple syrup, or try date syrup.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Nut-Free: Substitute nuts with more seeds or dried fruit.

Special Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Saucepan

Pro Tips

• Perfect Clusters: Press mixture tightly on the baking sheet for larger clusters.
• Texture Tip: Stir halfway through baking to ensure even toasting.
• Freshness: Add a splash of vanilla after cooling for a fresh aroma.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Substitutions: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Sogginess: Ensure the mixture is dry before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Clusters: For crunchier clusters, bake for an extra 5 minutes.
• Storage: Freeze to maintain freshness longer.
• Scaling: Double the recipe for larger batches, adjusting baking time slightly.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a breakfast topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
• Snack on clusters throughout the day.
• Use as a topping for salads or ice cream.

Conclusion

This homemade granola offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought options. With its perfect blend of crunch and spice, it's a delicious way to start your day. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade treat!