If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious breakfast option, look no further than Panera Granola Recipe! This delightful recipe combines the perfect blend of crunchy oats, nuts, and dried fruits to create a wholesome and satisfying start to your day. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or simply on its own, Panera Granola is sure to tantalize your taste buds and provide you with the energy you need to conquer the day ahead. So, let’s dive into the world of Panera Granola and discover the secrets behind this delectable morning treat!

Why You Should Make Panera Granola Recipe

There are many reasons why you should definitely make it for breakfast.

1. Delicious and Nutritious: Panera Granola is a perfect combination of crunchy oats, nuts, and sweet honey. It not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritious start to your day.

2. Customizable: Making your granola allows you to customize it according to your preferences. You can add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours.

3. Cost-effective: Buying granola from the store can be expensive, but making it at home is much more budget-friendly. You can make a large batch of Panera Granola at a fraction of the cost of store-bought options.

4. Versatile: Panera Granola can be enjoyed in various ways. You can have it as a breakfast cereal with milk, sprinkle it over yogurt or smoothie bowls, or even enjoy it as a standalone snack. Its versatility makes it a great option for any time of the day.

Before making Panera Granola, you will need the following equipment and ingredients:

Equipment & Ingredients

Equipment:

Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or wooden spoon
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Ingredients:

3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Panera Granola Recipe

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1 cup of chopped almonds, and 1 cup of chopped pecans.

Step 3. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of canola oil, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

Step 4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well-coated.

Step 5. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon.

Step 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely, as it will continue to crisp up as it cools.

Step 8. Once cooled, break the granola into small clusters and store it in an airtight container.

Step 9. Enjoy your homemade Panera Granola.

Tips for Making it Perfectly

1. Use quality ingredients: Choose high-quality oats, nuts, and honey for the best flavor and texture in your granola.

2. Mix the wet ingredients well: Make sure to thoroughly mix the honey, melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil), and vanilla extract together before pouring them over the dry ingredients. This will ensure that the sweetness and flavors are evenly distributed throughout the granola.

3. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Spread the granola mixture in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the sheet can prevent the granola from getting crispy and evenly baked.

4. Stir halfway through baking: About halfway through the baking time, give the granola a gentle stir to ensure even browning. This will help prevent any burnt spots and ensure that the granola is evenly cooked.

5. Let it cool completely: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to a storage container. This will help it become crispier and prevent it from becoming soggy.

6. Add dried fruits after baking: If you want to include dried fruits in your granola, add them after the granola has finished baking and cooled. This will prevent the fruits from becoming too chewy or burnt during the baking process.

7. Customize to your liking: Feel free to customize the Panera Granola recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or spices. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.

By following these tips above, you’ll be able to make it perfectly, with a deliciously crunchy texture and a delightful balance of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

1- Sprinkle the granola over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor.

2- Enjoy the Panera Granola as a breakfast cereal by pouring milk or your favorite plant-based milk over it.

3- Use the Panera Granola as a topping for oatmeal or chia pudding.

4- Add it to baked goods like muffins or cookies for a delightful texture and taste.

5- Pack the granola in small resealable bags or containers for a convenient on-the-go snack.

6- Serve the Panera Granola as a topping for ice cream or fruit salads for a delicious dessert option.

How to Store Your Panera Granola

Storing:

Once the Panera Granola has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or jar for storage.
Store the granola at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
Properly stored, the Panera Granola can last for up to two weeks.

Health Benefits of Panera Granola Recipe

1. It is packed with whole grains, providing a good source of fiber for digestive health.

2. The recipe includes nuts and seeds, which are rich in healthy fats and protein, promoting heart health and satiety.

3. Panera Granola is made with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, reducing the amount of refined sugars typically found in store-bought granola.

Nutritional Facts

Amount Per Serving (approximately 1/4 cup)

Calories: around 150-200 calories
Total Fat: around 8-10 grams
Carbohydrates: around 18-22 grams
Fiber: around 2-4 grams
Protein: around 3-5 grams
Sugar: around 6-8 grams (may vary depending on added sweeteners)

It’s important to note that the nutritional facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your homemade Panera Granola.

FAQs

1- Can I customize the Panera Granola?

Yes, you can customize the Panera Granola by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

2- How long does the Panera Granola last?

Panera Granola can last for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container.

3- Is Panera Granola gluten-free?

Panera Granola Recipe can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.

4- Can I use vegetable oil instead of coconut oil in the Panera Granola?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute for coconut oil in the Panera Granola.

5- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats in Panera Granola Recipe?

Yes, you can use quick oats instead of rolled oats, but the texture may be slightly different.

Conclusion

Panera Granola recipe is a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy homemade, nutritious, and delicious granola. With its combination of oats, nuts, and dried fruits, it offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. By making it at home, you have control over the ingredients and can customize it to your liking. Whether enjoyed on its own, sprinkled over yogurt, or used as a topping for desserts, this Panera Granola is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and elevate your breakfast or snack time with this wholesome and tasty treat.