Stop spending money on expensive bags of granola and make this recipe instead! This homemade nut-free granola is a great alternative to store-bought versions.
With just a few ingredients and only 35 minutes of your time, you can make 6 cups of delicious nut-free granola that is:
- Affordable: Save money by using pantry staples.
- Customizable: Tailor the ingredients to your taste.
- Healthy: Control the quality and quantity of the ingredients.
This nut free granola recipe is part of my growing Breakfast and Brunch collection of recipes you can find on my blog. If you are a breakfast eater, you might also find some other interesting recipes, like this Blueberry Buttermilk Muffins, Easy Ham And Cheese Overnight Breakfast Strata, or this Easy Scrambled Eggs With Tortilla (Mexican Migas).
I love making homemade granola. I always have bags of different types of grains, cereals, and dried fruits, along with other ingredients, in my pantry, ready to use for my next projects. I also like to see and control what goes into my food.
If you ever thought that making granola at home was complicated, I’m here to show you that it’s not true. Granola recipes are very easy to make. They usually require you to mix dry ingredients with wet ones and then bake the mixture to produce a crispy, delicious treat.
This nut-free granola recipe is perfect for those who want to avoid nuts in their diet or are simply looking for a different version of the usual nut-filled granola. Let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe.
Basic Ingredients
- Old-fashioned oats: Old-fashioned oats, also known as rolled oats, are whole oat grains that have been steamed and then rolled into flat flakes. This makes them ideal for a variety of recipes, such as oatmeal, granola, and baked goods.
- Barley flakes: These are whole barley grains that have been steamed, rolled, and flattened, similar to rolled oats, and are often used in cereals, granola, and baking. If you cannot find them, replace them with more oats or rye flakes.
- Seeds: For added nutrition, use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or a mixture of both. You can also choose chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds.
- Vegetable oil
- Honey: Honey is my choice for this recipe, but you can also use maple syrup instead or agave nectar.
- Vanilla extract
- Dried Dates: I chose dates for their naturally sweet flavor and texture, but you can also add/include raisins, cranberries, apricots, or any dried fruit you like.
Possible Variations
- Flavorings: Add a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
- Coconut: Unsweetened coconut flakes can add a nice texture and sweetness.
- Crispy Additions: Mix in crispy rice cereal or toasted quinoa for extra crunch.
How To Make This Nut-Free Granola
Step 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, barley flakes, and seeds.
Step 3. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, and vanilla.
Step 4. Pour this honey mixture over the oat mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared pan.
Step 5. Bake for about 25 minutes, making sure to stir frequently after the first 10 minutes to ensure even toasting.
Step 6. Once the granola is nicely toasted, stir in the dates while it’s still hot.
Step 7. Let the granola cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Storage
To keep your homemade nut-free granola fresh and crunchy:
- Airtight Container: Store the granola in an airtight container to keep it crisp and prevent it from absorbing moisture. The granola should stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for up to three months. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying it.
How To Serve This Nut Free Granola Recipe
These are a few ways to serve this granola:
- With Yogurt: Sprinkle granola over your favorite yogurt for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack. I like some Greek Yogurt for extra protein.
- As Cereal: Pour milk over a bowl of granola for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Fruit Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruits to make a tasty parfait.
- On Ice Cream: Add a crunchy topping to your ice cream by sprinkling granola over it.
- Baked Goods: Use granola as a topping for muffins, breads, or even pancakes.
- As a Snack: Enjoy it by the handful as a quick and healthy snack on the go.
Pin This For Later
More Recipes To Love
Homemade Nut Free Granola
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats ensure they are certified gluten-free if needed
- 2 cups barley flakes
- 1 cup sunflower seeds or a mix of sunflower and pumpkin seeds
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup chopped dates
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine oats, barley flakes, and seeds in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine the oil, honey, and vanilla.
- Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well blended. Pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until toasted, stirring frequently after 10 minutes.
- Stir in the dates while the granola is still hot.
- Cool and store tightly covered. (This recipe makes 6 cups, and one serving is 1/2 cup)
Notes
- Coconut flakes: Unsweetened coconut flakes can add texture and a bit of natural sweetness.
- Crispy rice cereal: Adds a light and crispy texture.
- Dried fruit: Additional dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots can enhance the flavor and texture.
Jeff Baumgartner
Friday 9th of August 2024
Very simple to make and healthy for the whole family to enjoy.
Gabriela
Sunday 11th of August 2024
Thank you, Jeff, it is indeed one of my favorite granola to make!