Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola

👩‍🍳 Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola is a delightful and nutritious breakfast or snack option. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and time needed to make it. 🥣

History: The origins of granola can be traced back to the 19th century, with its modern form emerging in the 1960s as a health food craze. Granola has evolved over time, and Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola is a delightful twist on this classic dish.

Components:

• Rolled Oats: The primary base of granola, providing fiber and a hearty texture.
• Pecans: Crunchy and nutty, adding healthy fats and protein.
• Dried Cranberries: Sweet and tart, offering a burst of flavor.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that bind the ingredients together.
• Coconut Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that chunky texture.
• Cinnamon and Salt: Enhance flavor and balance sweetness.

Preparation Steps: 🍽️

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

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped pecans, a pinch of salt, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix well.

3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup together. Stir until well combined.

4. Combine and Coat: Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Ensure all the oats and nuts are coated evenly.

5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or a spoon to create those coveted granola clusters.

6. Baking Time: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the granola turns golden brown. Be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even cooking.

7. Add Cranberries: Remove the granola from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup of dried cranberries over it while it’s still warm. Press them down gently.

8. Cooling: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows it to firm up and form those delicious clusters.

9. Break into Chunks: Once completely cooled, break the granola into chunks of your desired size. This is where the chunkiness comes in!

10. Storage: Store your Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola in an airtight container. It can last for several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place.

Time Needed: Preparing this granola will take approximately 45 minutes, including both preparation and baking time. It’s a fantastic homemade treat that’s worth the effort! 😊🥄

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (approximately 60g)
• Calories: 260
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 10mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 4g

Health Information:

1. High Fiber Content: Anne’s Cranberry Pecan Chunky Granola contains a good amount of dietary fiber, which can help support digestive health and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

2. Healthy Fats: The pecans and coconut oil provide healthy fats, including monounsaturated and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be beneficial for heart health and energy.

3. Natural Sweeteners: The use of honey or maple syrup as sweeteners adds a touch of natural sweetness without the need for refined sugars.

4. Vitamins and Minerals: This granola is a source of various essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and zinc, thanks to the oats and nuts.

5. Antioxidants: Dried cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.

6. Portion Control: Keep in mind that portion control is important, as granola can be calorie-dense. Stick to the recommended serving size to maintain a balanced diet.

7. Customization: You can customize this granola to suit your dietary preferences by adjusting the sweeteners or using different nuts and dried fruits.

Remember that the nutritional content may vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations. Enjoy your granola as part of a balanced diet for a wholesome and tasty breakfast or snack option! 🥣🌰🍇