Granola is one of those versatile, crunchy, and satisfying foods that can be enjoyed in countless ways—whether it’s for breakfast with yogurt, as a snack on its own, or as a topping for smoothie bowls. While store-bought granola may seem like a healthy option, many varieties are loaded with refined sugars, unhealthy oils, and preservatives that make them less than ideal for anyone looking to live a clean, non-toxic lifestyle.

At The Simple Pursuit, we believe in keeping things simple, organic, and as close to whole food as possible, just like our ancestors did. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through how to make your own homemade granola using wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients. It’s a recipe that’s not only healthy and non-toxic but also incredibly delicious and easy to make.

We’ll dive into the benefits of using whole foods, why making your own granola is a great choice for a healthy lifestyle, and how you can easily customize the recipe to suit your personal taste.

Why Make Your Own Granola?

Granola is often marketed as a health food, but many pre-packaged options contain hidden ingredients that can sabotage your healthy eating goals. By making your own granola, you control exactly what goes into it—no refined sugars, no artificial preservatives, and no unhealthy oils. Plus, it’s much more affordable and customizable to your liking!

Health Benefits of Homemade Granola

• Whole Ingredients: When you make your own granola, you’re using real, whole foods like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits—ingredients that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
• No Refined Sugars: Store-bought granola is often loaded with processed sugars that can lead to blood sugar spikes. Homemade granola allows you to sweeten it naturally with options like honey or maple syrup.
• Healthy Fats: You get to choose heart-healthy oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil, which support overall wellness and taste delicious.
• Customizable: Whether you like your granola crunchy or chewy, loaded with nuts or more focused on fruit, making it yourself means you can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences perfectly.

Ingredients for the Best Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

The beauty of homemade granola lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy or exotic ingredients—just wholesome, organic items you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of the core ingredients you’ll need to create the ultimate healthy homemade granola recipe:

Whole Rolled Oats

Oats are the foundation of any good granola recipe. They’re naturally gluten-free (just make sure to buy certified gluten-free oats if needed) and provide a fantastic source of fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds add both crunch and nutrition to your granola. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are all great options. These ingredients are packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Natural Sweeteners

Instead of refined sugars, opt for natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. These alternatives are less processed and provide a gentler impact on your blood sugar while still delivering a touch of sweetness.

Healthy Fats

Choosing the right fat is essential for making granola crispy and satisfying. Coconut oil is a popular option because it’s rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide a quick source of energy. You can also use extra virgin olive oil for a more savory flavor.

Dried Fruits

For natural sweetness and a chewy texture, dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates work beautifully in granola. Be sure to select organic, unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars and preservatives.

Spices and Flavorings

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract can elevate the flavor of your granola without adding extra calories or unhealthy ingredients. A pinch of sea salt also helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.

How to Make Healthy and Non-Toxic Homemade Granola

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s get to the fun part—making your own granola! This recipe is designed to be simple, quick, and adaptable to your personal preferences.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc.)
• ½ cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.)
• ¼ cup coconut oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
• ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil (or warm olive oil) and stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. Once combined, pour the mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is coated.
4. Spread and Bake: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
5. Add the Dried Fruit: Once the granola is golden brown and crisp, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Stir in the dried fruit, then allow the granola to cool completely before storing.
6. Store and Enjoy: Store your homemade granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or straight from the jar as a snack!

Why Whole Food Ingredients Matter

At The Simple Pursuit, we emphasize the importance of using whole foods in every recipe, and homemade granola is no exception. But what exactly are whole foods, and why are they so important for a non-toxic lifestyle?

What Are Whole Foods?

Whole foods are minimally processed, as close to their natural state as possible. They don’t contain artificial additives, preservatives, or refined sugars. Instead, they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the body and support optimal health.

The Benefits of Whole Foods in Homemade Granola

By using whole food ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners, you’re providing your body with the nutrients it needs without exposing it to the harmful chemicals often found in processed foods. Whole foods are easier to digest, support a healthy gut, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Customizing Your Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

One of the best things about homemade granola is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make this healthy homemade granola recipe your own:

Add a Superfood Boost

To take your granola to the next level, consider adding superfoods like chia seeds, hemp hearts, or flaxseeds. These ingredients add extra fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids for even more nutritional benefits.

Play with Flavors

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavorings. You can add a pinch of cardamom for a warming spice blend, or swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist.

Make It Nut-Free

If you have a nut allergy or want to create a nut-free version, simply replace the nuts with more seeds. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds work well, and you can even add puffed quinoa for extra crunch.

How to Store and Enjoy Your Granola

Once your granola is made, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh and crunchy. An airtight container is essential, and if you live in a humid climate, you might want to keep it in the fridge to prevent it from getting soggy.

Serving Ideas for Your Healthy Homemade Granola

• With Yogurt: Layer your granola with organic, non-dairy yogurt and fresh fruit for a nourishing breakfast or snack.
• Smoothie Bowl Topping: Sprinkle granola on top of a smoothie bowl for added texture and crunch.
• On Its Own: Grab a handful for a quick, satisfying snack that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Final Thoughts on the Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

Making your own granola is a simple, rewarding way to ensure you’re fueling your body with the best ingredients possible. By using whole, organic ingredients, you’re creating a delicious and nutritious snack that aligns with a healthy, non-toxic lifestyle.

This healthy homemade granola recipe is not only easy to make but alsocustomizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert topping, this granola will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, by avoiding processed ingredients and sticking to whole foods, you’re nourishing your body and promoting long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Homemade Granola

Q: How long does homemade granola last?
A: When stored in an airtight container, homemade granola can last for up to two weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can store it in the refrigerator for about a month. Just be sure to keep it dry and cool to prevent it from losing its crunch.

Q: Can I make this granola recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats. The rest of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: Is this granola recipe vegan-friendly?
A: Yes! If you’re vegan, you can easily make this recipe by using maple syrup as your sweetener and opting for coconut oil instead of honey. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, plant-based granola that aligns with your lifestyle.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste. If you prefer less sugar, simply reduce the quantity of maple syrup or honey. You can also experiment with sugar-free sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract, but be mindful of how they impact the overall flavor and texture.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for coconut oil?
A: If you’re not a fan of coconut oil or prefer not to use it, you can swap it with extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. Both are heart-healthy options that will still provide the desired crunch and moisture to your granola.

Conclusion: Embrace Simplicity and Wellness with Homemade Granola

Living a healthy, non-toxic lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated or restrictive. In fact, it can be as simple as making a batch of homemade granola with organic, whole food ingredients. This healthy homemade granola recipe is the perfect example of how we can get back to basics while still enjoying delicious and satisfying food.

At The Simple Pursuit, we believe that eating clean and nourishing your body should be an enjoyable and empowering experience. By making your own granola, you’re taking control of what goes into your body, choosing foods that fuel you naturally, and embracing the simplicity of whole foods.

So, why not give this recipe a try? You’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to make your own granola—and once you taste it, you may never go back to the store-bought version again.

Ready to make this healthy homemade granola recipe? Let me know how it turned out and what creative twists you added in the comments below!

Pin this recipe for later and share it with your friends who are on the journey toward a healthier, more organic lifestyle. Let’s keep spreading the word about simple, non-toxic living!