Vanilla Almond Granola with White Chocolate

Love granola but want to control the ingredients? This Vanilla Almond Granola recipe is a healthier, gluten-free version of your favorite store-bought cereals. Made with oats, nuts, seeds, and honey, it’s naturally sweetened and full of flavor. Perfect for topping yogurt or enjoying with fresh fruit, it’s satisfying and energizing!

Do you love those fancy store-bought granola cereals but wish they were more affordable or had better ingredients? This homemade Vanilla Almond Granola recipe is exactly what you’re looking for! It’s a simple, healthier version of the store-bought favorite, using gluten-free oats, nuts, seeds, and honey. Not only is this granola packed with flavor, but you’ll also have complete control over what goes in—no unnecessary additives or excess sugar. The vanilla and almond combination creates a heavenly aroma, and it’s perfect for topping your favorite yogurt or pairing with fresh fruit. Plus, it’s filling and energizing, helping you stay satisfied until lunchtime.

This recipe is one I’ve perfected over time to get that perfect crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or for breakfast, this homemade version is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

YouTube video

Why You’ll Love My Healthy Vanilla Almond Granola Recipe:

  • Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this granola in no time.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap out nuts, seeds, or add-ins to suit your preferences.
  • Gluten-free goodness: Made with gluten-free oats, it’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Naturally sweetened: Honey gives this granola the perfect balance of sweetness without refined sugar.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here is everything you need to make the best-tasting healthy vanilla almond granola w/ white chocolate recipe:

Almonds: You can replace almonds with other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or cashews if you have allergies or prefer a different nut.

Old-Fashioned Oats: If you want to make this granola gluten-free, use gluten-free oats or other gluten-free grains like quinoa flakes or rice flakes.

Shredded Coconut: You can substitute shredded coconut with unsweetened coconut flakes or omit it altogether if you’re not a fan of coconut.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds can be replaced with flax seeds or hemp seeds for a similar texture and nutritional boost.

Coconut Sugar: Replace coconut sugar with brown sugar, maple sugar, or your preferred sweetener like stevia or erythritol.

White Chocolate Chips: If you want a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can use dark chocolate chips, cocoa nibs, or omit them entirely.

Almond Butter: If you have a nut allergy or want a different flavor, you can use sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter.

Coconut Oil: You can replace coconut oil with melted butter, ghee, or a neutral vegetable oil like canola or grapeseed oil.

Honey: If you prefer not to use honey, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sweetener of your choice.

Almond Extract: If you don’t have almond extract or want to avoid it, you can omit it or replace it with vanilla extract.

Vanilla Extract: You can use other extracts like maple, hazelnut, or coconut extract for a different flavor

How to Make My Healthy Vanilla Almond Granola

Step 1: Chop the Almonds

Pour 1/3 cup of almonds into a food blender. I like to use the convenient chopper cup that works with my immersion blender. Pulse the almonds until chopped. You can also use store-bought slivered almonds if you prefer.

Juiced and zested orange on a kitchen counter.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Pour the chopped almonds, old-fashioned oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir it with a spatula until well combined.

You can also use quick oats, but I prefer old-fashioned oats for granola. The oat flakes are larger, which creates larger clumps of granola. I find them easier and more satisfying to eat as granola cereal in a bowl of milk.

Juiced and zested orange on a kitchen counter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Combine the almond butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a bowl and stir with a fork until well combined.

Juiced and zested orange on a kitchen counter.

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until all the oats are coated.

Adding wet ingredients to muffin batter.
Mixing cranberries into muffin batter.

Step 4. Spread on Cookie Sheet

Line a large 17-inch baking sheet pan with parchment paper. Cut the parchment paper about 2 inches larger than the pan. Dump the granola into the center of the pan and spread it out evenly using a spatula.

Optional: Sprinkle 1/3 cup of the white chocolate chips over the granola.

Juiced and zested orange on a kitchen counter.

Step 5: Bake in Intervals

Bake at 350°F for a total of 16 minutes. Set the timer for 8 minutes. Pull the sheet pan out of the oven and gently lift the sides of the parchment paper to redistribute the granola. Then spread the granola with a spatula. Stirring the granola will ensure it cooks evenly. Then return to the oven and bake for eight more minutes.

Remove from the oven and allow it to cool on the counter before transferring to an air-tight container.

Juiced and zested orange on a kitchen counter.

Homemade Vanilla Granola Recipe Notes

Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. This recipe is quite versatile.

Sweeteners: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar. The natural sweetness from the other ingredients might be sufficient.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients: Make sure to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth and even coating for the dry ingredients. You can gently warm the almond butter and coconut oil to make mixing easier.

Evenly Distribute the Granola: When spreading the granola on the baking sheet, try to distribute it evenly. This ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from becoming too dark.

Stirring During Baking: Stirring the granola during baking is essential to prevent burning and ensure even browning. Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the granola clusters.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

  • Top with yogurt and fresh fruit: Add your favorite Greek or coconut yogurt and seasonal fruit for a delicious breakfast or snack.
  • Sprinkle over smoothie bowls: Add texture and flavor to your smoothie bowl with a handful of crunchy granola.
  • Snack on the go: Pack it in a small container for a quick and satisfying snack when you’re out and about.
  • Pair with almond milk: Enjoy it as a classic cereal with almond milk or your favorite dairy-free milk.

Cool Completely: Before storing your granola, make sure it has cooled completely. This will help maintain its crispness.

Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container. A glass jar, plastic container, or a resealable plastic bag work well. Make sure it seals tightly to keep air and moisture out.

Avoid Moisture: Moisture is the enemy of granola, as it can make it lose its crunch. Store your granola in a dry place away from humidity.

Room Temperature: If the environment is relatively cool and dry, you can store granola at room temperature. It will typically stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Refrigeration: If you’re concerned about keeping the granola fresh for an extended period or if your kitchen tends to be humid, you can refrigerate it. In the refrigerator, granola can last for up to a month.

Freezing: For longer-term storage, granola can be frozen. Place it in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature or reheat it in the oven to restore its crispness

What is granola?

Granola is a breakfast cereal or snack made primarily from rolled oats mixed with various ingredients such as nuts, seeds, sweeteners, and often dried fruits. It’s typically baked until it’s crisp and golden brown.

Is granola gluten free?

Yes, when you use certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats.

Can I make granola at home?

Yes, homemade granola is easy to make. You can control the ingredients and tailor it to your preferences. There are numerous granola recipes available, including gluten-free and vegan options.

How long does homemade granola last?

Homemade granola can last for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. When refrigerated, it can stay fresh for about a month. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.

Can I adjust granola recipes to my dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Granola recipes are versatile and can be adjusted to meet various dietary requirements. You can make gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, or low-sugar granola by choosing suitable ingredients.

What are some common granola add-ins?

Common granola add-ins include nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), seeds (chia, flax, pumpkin), dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots), spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), and even chocolate chips or cacao nibs.

How can I prevent my granola from becoming soggy?

To prevent granola from becoming soggy, ensure it’s completely cool before storing it in an airtight container. Avoid storing it in a humid environment, and consider adding moisture-absorbing packs if needed.

Is granola suitable for weight loss?

Granola can be part of a weight loss plan when consumed in moderation. Pay attention to portion sizes, choose lower-sugar options, and use it as a topping for yogurt or a snack rather than a large bowl with added milk.

Can I use granola as a cereal with milk?

Yes, granola is often enjoyed with milk or yogurt as a breakfast cereal. It adds texture, flavor, and nutrition to your morning meal.

How can I make my granola clusters stick together better?

To make granola clusters stick together, ensure the wet ingredients (like honey or nut butter) are evenly distributed and use gentle pressure when spreading the mixture on the baking sheet. Avoid stirring too frequently during baking to allow clusters to form.

Vanilla Almond Granola with White Chocolate

Love granola but want to control the ingredients? This Vanilla Almond Granola recipe is a healthier, gluten-free version of your favorite store-bought cereals. Made with oats, nuts, seeds, and honey, it’s naturally sweetened and full of flavor. Perfect for topping yogurt or enjoying with fresh fruit, it’s satisfying and energizing!
5 from 4 votes
Servings 16
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes

Ingredients
  

DRY INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/3 cup almonds (chopped or slivered)
  • 3-1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1/3 cup shredded coconut
  • 3 tablespoons chia seeds (white, if you can find them)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

WET INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/3 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Chop the almonds in a food processor or chopper cup.
    1/3 cup almonds
  • Combine the chopped almonds, oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium-sized mixing bowl and stir with a spatula until combined.
    3-1/2 cups old-fashioned oats, 3 tablespoons chia seeds, 2 tablespoons coconut sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Combine the almond butter, coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a bowl and mix with a fork until well combined.
    1/3 cup almond butter, 1/4 cup coconut oil, 1/4 cup honey, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until all the oats are coated.
  • Line a large 17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the parchment 2 inches larger than the sheet pan. Pour the granola into the center of the pan and spread with a spatula until evenly distributed.
    Optional: Sprinkle white chocolate chips over the granola.
  • Bake at 350°F. Set the timer for 8 minutes. Pull the sheet pan out of the oven and gently stir to redistribute the granola. Stirring the granola will ensure it cooks evenly. Then return to the oven and bake for eight more minutes for a total of 16 minutes.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack until the chocolate is cooled and solidified. Store in an airtight container.

Video

YouTube video

Nutrition

Calories: 194kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.004gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 81mgPotassium: 110mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 1mg
Keyword almond butter, cereal, gluten free, granola, honey, naturally sweetened, vanilla
Did you make this recipe and love it?Please let me know in the comments below how it turned out 🙂

4 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I made this granola today for the first time it is absolutely divine..smells delicious when out of the oven.
    Definitely having it for breakfast tomorrow and possibly everyday from now..can’t wait to try some more of your recipes..I will be making it again that’s for sure.

    1. Hi Anne, thank you so much for the review! I’m thrilled you love my recipe 🙂 I agree; the aroma from the oven is amazing. I should make a candle with the same scent…haha 🙂

  2. 5 stars
    Made this yesterday and it is a solid win! I so appreciate Nicole bringing these recipes to YouTube so I can expand my knowledge of “cooking myself” so I “know what is in my family’s food”! Such simple tweaks really show you how to end up with actual homemade yummy food! Keep up the great work Nicole!

    1. Hi Sandra, thank you so much for sharing this! I’m so excited about your journey to make delicious and nutritious food at home. I’ll keep posting recipes and videos 🙂

5 from 4 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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