Homemade Bear Naked To Go Pouches Original Cinnamon Protein Granola Recipe: A Healthier, Crunchier Alternative

Category: Granola

Introduction

The Bear Naked To Go Pouches Original Cinnamon Protein Granola has become a staple for health-conscious snackers and busy bees alike. Known for its satisfying crunch, sweet and spicy cinnamon flavor, and impressive protein content, this granola has captured the hearts of many. However, store-bought options often come with added sugars, preservatives, and a higher price tag. Making your own version at home allows you to control the ingredients, reduce sugar content, and enjoy the same delicious flavor while saving money. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your dietary preferences and taste buds.

I first fell in love with Bear Naked granola during a camping trip, where it became my go-to breakfast and snack. But when I looked at the ingredient list, I realized there was room for improvement. That’s when I decided to create my own version at home. After several trials and tweaks, I landed on a recipe that not only mirrors the original but also offers a healthier profile. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires just a few common ingredients.

Why Make It at Home?

• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce added sugars and use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Customizable: Tailor the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegan, or low-carb).
• Cost-Effective: Homemade granola is often cheaper than store-bought options.
• Freshness: Enjoy the freshest granola possible, with no preservatives or shelf stabilizers.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I made this granola. I was skeptical about whether it would live up to the store-bought version, but after one bite, I was hooked. The cinnamon flavor was spot on, the texture was perfectly crunchy, and the best part? It had half the sugar of the original. My family and friends raved about it, and now it’s a staple in our pantry. Whether I’m packing it for a quick snack or using it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, this homemade granola has become a versatile favorite.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:25-30 minutes
• **Total Time:40-45 minutes
• **Yield:8-10 servings (approx. 1/4 cup per serving)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 4 cups (400g) rolled oats (gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 cup (120g) puffed rice cereal
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup (60g) sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tbsp (30g) unflavored protein powder (optional, but recommended for a protein boost)
• 2 tsp (10g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) coconut oil (melted)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar (optional, for a sweeter flavor)

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, puffed rice cereal, almonds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to combine.
• Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, heat the honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and brown sugar (if using) over low heat, stirring until smooth and well combined.
• Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. Make sure there are no dry spots.
• Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly toasted and fragrant.
• Cool and Set: Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crunch.
• Store: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container for storage.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the honey to 2 tbsp (30ml) and omit the brown sugar.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds with additional sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the protein powder is vegan-friendly.

Pro Tips

• Perfect Clusters: For larger granola clusters, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. Avoid stirring too much during cooling.
• Extra Crunch: If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake for an additional 5 minutes, keeping an eye to prevent burning.
• Custom Add-Ins: After cooling, mix in your favorite add-ins like dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or shredded dark chocolate.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Absolutely! Fresh nuts and seeds can be used, but ensure they are toasted properly for the best flavor.

• What can I do if the granola turns out too dry?
  Try adding a little more honey or maple syrup next time, or mix in some dried fruit for moisture.

• How do I make it last longer?
  Store the granola in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and use multiple baking sheets to ensure even cooking.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats. Always check the labels of other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Yogurt Topping: Sprinkle over your favorite yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast or snack.
• Oatmeal Boost: Add a handful to your oatmeal for extra crunch and flavor.
• Trail Mix: Mix with dried fruit and chocolate for a tasty on-the-go snack.
• Smoothie Bowl: Use as a topping for smoothie bowls along with fresh fruit and nut butter.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Bear Naked To Go Pouches Original Cinnamon Protein Granola is not only a healthier alternative but also a cost-effective and customizable solution for your snack and breakfast needs. With its perfect balance of cinnamon spice, crunchy texture, and satisfying protein content, this granola is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your creations or leave a review to let me know how it turns out!