Simple snacks for on-the-go are essential for busy lifestyles. Too often we grab the not-so-healthy option because we just don’t have time to check labels and search for healthy foods that are also quick, portable, and convenient. That is why you will love this healthy, easy granola recipe with dried fruits and nuts. It has simple ingredients and it tastes delicious. I call it Farmer’s Market Granola because that is where I pick up my ingredients. This homemade granola can be customized with what is available to you locally.
Delicious, Simple, and Healthy Granola Recipe
Granola is considered a healthy choice because it’s typically made with nutrient-rich ingredients like whole oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. These components provide a good source of fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full longer. Granola also contains healthy fats from nuts and seeds, as well as complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.
Additionally, granola can be a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and B vitamins—especially if it’s made with minimal added sugar and processed ingredients. When eaten in moderation and paired with yogurt, fruit, or milk, granola can be a balanced and satisfying part of a nutritious diet.
I happen to love granola, and when my sister called me up one day to rave about a delicious granola recipe she snagged from a chef after a stay at a Florida resort, I was excited to say the least. She claimed it was the best granola she had ever tasted, and when I made it for myself, I couldn’t agree more. While the recipe was amazing on its own, I just had to tweak it for my own personal tastes. I began selling the granola at my parents’ cafe, and the demand was so huge I set up a table at the local farmer’s market to reach as many people as I could. This homemade, crunchy granola is the perfect treat for on-the-go, for breakfast topped with delicious cashew milk, or mixed with creamy yogurt.
What’s In Granola? Recipe Ingredients:
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ⅓ cups honey
- 1 ¼ cups sliced almonds
- ¾ cup raw pumpkin seeds, hulled
- 1 ¼ cups shredded coconut
- 1 ¼ cups dried cherries
- optional: 1 tbsp flax seeds
Flax seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Dried cherries are an abundant source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron. Almonds are a great source of protein. In addition, to those healthy ingredients there are of course the oats. Healthline says, “Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. They’re a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.”
I think the ingredients above make the best granola recipe but I know that we all have our own favorites so I will list some possible substitutions:
- Dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots can be used in place of dried cherries.
- Chopped pecans or sunflower seeds can be used in place of sliced almonds.
- Chia seeds or wheat germ can be used in place of flax seeds.
- Room temperature coconut oil can be used in place of the butter for an even healthier version.
- Pure maple syrup may be used in place of honey.
How To Make Granola:
This is an easy recipe. Making you own granola is not complicated or involved. You are really just mixing healthy fats and natural sweeteners with the oats and nuts and baking till crunchy.
Melt the butter, brown sugar, and honey together in a saucepan. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and coconut together. Add the wet ingredients butter mixture to the oats mixture and stir. Pour your granola mix on to a sheet pan and spread evenly. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper if you like for easy clean up, but it is not necessary.
Roast in the oven at 300 degrees F until golden brown. Allow to granola to cool, then add dried cherries to mixture. That is it. You are done!
Pour granola into a bowl for cereal with cashew milk, or divide into containers for on-the-go treats! Make granola yogurt parfaits with Greek yogurt.
I hope you enjoy this simple, healthy homemade granola recipe!
Printable Recipe Card For Easy Granola With Dried Fruit And Nuts:
Healthy Granola Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ⅓ cups honey
- 1 ¼ cups sliced almonds
- 1 ¼ cups shredded coconut
- ¾ cup raw pumpkin seeds, hulled
- 1 ¼ cups dried cherries
- optional: flax seeds
Instructions
- Melt the butter, brown sugar, and honey together in a saucepan.
- Mix oats, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and coconut together.
- Add butter mixture to oats mixture and place on a sheet pan.
- Roast in a preheated oven at 300 degrees until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely, about 45 mintues, then add dried cherries to mixture.
- Ready to serve or store.
Nutrition Facts
Healthy Granola Recipe
Serves: 4
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1481.93 kcal | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 70.86 g | 107.7% | |
| Saturated Fat 33.7 g | 165% | |
| Trans Fat 0.95 g | ||
| Cholesterol 61.01 mg | 20.3% | |
| Sodium 32.83 mg | 1.3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 207.11 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber 16.49 g | 64% | |
| Sugars 148.37 g | ||
| Protein 24.67 g | ||
| Vitamin A 29.43 % | Vitamin C 12.3 % | |
| Calcium 17.12 % | Iron 43.42 % | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Family Focus Blog
How To Store Homemade Granola:
All granola (store-bought granola or your own homemade granola) lasts longest when stored in an airtight container. This helps to keep out any moisture and protect the texture of your crunchy oats. You can store it in a large zippered bag, a mason jar with a lid, or a storage canister. All of these should work just fine to protect your dry ingredients.
Conclusion
Making your own granola is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a wholesome snack or breakfast. When you DIY, you can control the ingredients—reducing sugar, adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or spices, and skipping the preservatives often found in store-bought versions. It’s easy to customize, fun to make, and fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting smell of toasted oats and honey. Best of all, homemade granola tastes absolutely delicious—crunchy, flavorful, and fresh in every bite!
I hope you enjoy trying this homemade healthy granola recipe. What are your favorite healthy breakfast ideas? What would you add to this Farmer’s Market Granola to fit your personal taste?
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Erin says
I am a total granola addict and love to make it at home. Coconut and cherries are two of my favorite mix-ins, so I know I’d dive right into this healthy granola recipe!
Jill Roberts says
I am obsessed with healthy food! This DIY granola recipe is fantastic! I love how easy it is to customize with my favorite ingredients, and the fact that it’s healthier than store-bought options is a big bonus. It turned out so crunchy and flavorful—definitely a new staple in my kitchen. Thanks for sharing healthy breakfasts!
Grenfell Harrington says
This granola recipe is simple, healthy, and delicious — love the mix of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit! The easy steps make homemade granola feel totally doable. We also focus on wholesome, tasty recipes like this. Thanks for sharing!