Maple Cinnamon Granola

Maple Cinnamon Granola: A Delicious Crunchy Treat

Introduction:
Maple Cinnamon Granola is a delightful and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines the earthy sweetness of maple syrup with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. This delectable treat is a favorite among health-conscious individuals and food enthusiasts alike, thanks to its versatility and satisfying crunch. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, components, preparation steps, and estimated time needed to create this homemade Maple Cinnamon Granola.

History:
The history of granola dates back to the late 19th century, when it was developed as a health food. Sylvester Graham, a 19th-century American Presbyterian minister, is often credited with creating the concept of graham flour, which was used as a key ingredient in early granola recipes. The modern version of granola, like Maple Cinnamon Granola, has evolved significantly over the years to cater to different tastes and nutritional preferences.

Components:

1. Rolled Oats: The primary base of Maple Cinnamon Granola is rolled oats, which provide the hearty and wholesome foundation for this recipe.

2. Maple Syrup: The star ingredient that gives this granola its distinct flavor. Maple syrup adds natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like taste.

3. Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon lends warm and aromatic notes to the granola, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

4. Nuts and Seeds: You can customize your granola by adding a mix of nuts and seeds such as almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds. These contribute healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.

5. Oil: A neutral oil like canola or coconut oil is used to bind the ingredients together and help them toast evenly.

6. Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

7. Vanilla Extract: This optional ingredient adds a pleasant depth of flavor to the granola.

8. Dried Fruits: After baking, you can mix in dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots to add a chewy contrast to the crunchy granola.

Steps to Prepare Maple Cinnamon Granola:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Ensure you have all the components mentioned above ready and measured.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and ground cinnamon. Mix well.

Step 4: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, oil, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Press it down slightly to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Cool and Add Dried Fruits

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, you can add dried fruits if desired.

Step 9: Store

Transfer your Maple Cinnamon Granola to an airtight container. It can be stored for up to several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion:
Maple Cinnamon Granola is a delightful and customizable treat with a rich history in the world of health-conscious snacks. By combining simple yet flavorful components and following the easy preparation steps outlined above, you can create your own batch of this delicious granola in about 40 minutes. Enjoy it as a breakfast cereal with yogurt or milk, as a topping for ice cream, or as a wholesome snack on its own. Happy cooking!

Nutrition Facts for Maple Cinnamon Granola

Maple Cinnamon Granola is not only a delicious treat but also a nutritious one. Here are the approximate nutrition facts per 1/2 cup (50g) serving of homemade Maple Cinnamon Granola:

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 5g

Health Information:

1. Good Source of Fiber: Maple Cinnamon Granola provides 3g of dietary fiber per serving. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may help with weight management.

2. Healthy Fats: The granola contains healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, and a small amount of oil. These fats provide essential fatty acids and can help keep you feeling satisfied.

3. Moderate Calories: With 210 calories per serving, Maple Cinnamon Granola can be a filling and energy-packed option for breakfast or snacks. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.

4. Low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol: This granola recipe is low in saturated fat and contains zero cholesterol, which can contribute to heart health.

5. Natural Sweeteners: The primary sweetener in this granola is maple syrup, which is a more natural and less processed sweetener compared to refined sugars. However, it’s still important to consume sweet treats like granola in moderation.

6. Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the types of nuts and seeds you use, your granola may contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Note: The nutrition information provided is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. To get precise nutritional details, it’s advisable to use a nutritional calculator or consult the packaging of the specific ingredients you use. Additionally, keep in mind that adding dried fruits or other ingredients will alter the nutritional content.