Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s granola is a delectable, health-conscious breakfast option that’s packed with nutritious ingredients, offering a wholesome start to your day while being incredibly easy to make and customize to your taste. With a delightful balance of crunch, sweetness, and a mix of wholesome grains, nuts, and seeds, this granola stands out as a flavorful and energizing breakfast or snack.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Granola

Jamie Oliver’s granola is a homemade recipe designed to be a deliciously crunchy and nutritious alternative to store-bought granola. Known for its wholesome ingredients, the recipe uses rolled oats as the base, mixed with a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.

It’s sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, making it a healthier breakfast choice. This granola provides a balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, offering sustained energy throughout the morning. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted based on dietary preferences or available ingredients, such as substituting honey for agave syrup or adding coconut flakes for an extra touch of tropical flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s granola, you will need:

• Oats: Rolled oats are the foundation of the granola, providing fiber and a chewy texture.
• Nuts: A combination of almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts is typically used. They offer a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
• Seeds: Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds are common, adding both texture and nutrients like magnesium.
• Dried Fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots bring a touch of sweetness and additional fiber.
• Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness, as well as binding the ingredients together.
• Oil: Olive oil or coconut oil are commonly used to help with roasting the oats, giving them a nice golden color and enhancing flavor.
• Cinnamon: For a warm, comforting spiced flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor and a sweet aroma.

Optional ingredients:

• Coconut flakes: For a tropical flair.
• Chia seeds: To increase the nutritional profile with omega-3s.
• Cacao nibs: For a chocolatey crunch.

Equipment Needed

Making Jamie Oliver’s granola requires just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Baking Sheet: A large, flat baking sheet or tray to spread the granola mixture evenly for roasting.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine all the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the mixture and ensuring that everything is well coated in the oil and sweetener.
• Oven: Preheated to 160°C (320°F) to gently roast the granola without burning it.
• Storage Container: After cooling, store your granola in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and crunch.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Granola?

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) to ensure that it’s ready for baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your oats, nuts, seeds, and any other dry ingredients like cinnamon. Stir them together to evenly distribute the spices and seeds.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Drizzle in your sweetener (honey or maple syrup) and oil. Add the vanilla extract as well. Stir everything together until the dry ingredients are fully coated in the wet ingredients.
4. Spread the Granola: Transfer the mixture onto a large baking sheet, spreading it out in an even layer. This will allow the granola to bake evenly and become crispy.
5. Bake the Granola: Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through to ensure it doesn’t burn and that it browns evenly. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures vary.
6. Add the Dried Fruit: Once the granola is golden and crisp, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. After cooling, stir in your dried fruits.
7. Store and Enjoy: Once cooled, transfer your granola into an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, and you can enjoy it as a cereal with milk, as a topping for yogurt, or simply as a crunchy snack.

Expert Tips

1. Watch the Oven: Granola can go from golden to burnt very quickly, so be sure to stir it every 10 minutes and keep a close eye on it.
2. Customize Your Granola: Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding coconut flakes for extra crunch or chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
3. Cool Completely Before Storing: Let your granola cool on the baking sheet before transferring it to storage. If you store it while it’s still warm, it can become soggy.
4. Make It Vegan: Swap out honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make this granola vegan-friendly.
5. Double the Recipe: Granola is great to have on hand for snacks, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd or want to have extra on hand for the week.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Granola

Jamie Oliver’s granola recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few simple variations to experiment with:

1. Add Dried Fruits

   While Jamie’s recipe may use a few basic dried fruits, you can easily amp up the flavor by adding varieties like dried apricots, figs, or cranberries. These fruits add not only sweetness but also vibrant color and texture, making your granola feel more indulgent.

2. Incorporate Nuts and Seeds

   If you love a crunchy granola, try adding different nuts and seeds for extra bite. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts all bring distinct flavors, while chia, flax, or pumpkin seeds introduce a delightful nuttiness and added health benefits, such as omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

3. Spice it Up

   Jamie’s granola is flavored with cinnamon, but why not experiment with other warming spices?

   Nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, or even a hint of cayenne pepper could bring a new dimension to the recipe. These spices also bring health benefits, like anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.

4. Change the Sweetener

   While maple syrup and honey are the go-to sweeteners in Jamie’s granola, you can experiment with alternatives like agave nectar, coconut sugar, or brown rice syrup. Each will lend a slightly different sweetness and can impact the granola’s texture, with some offering a more caramelized crunch when baked.

5. Go Tropical

   For a sunny twist, add shredded coconut and dried pineapple, mango, or papaya. These tropical ingredients will give your granola a beachy vibe and pair perfectly with a dollop of yogurt for a tropical parfait.

6. Make it Vegan or Gluten-Free

   To make the granola suitable for vegan diets, simply swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave syrup. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and check that any other ingredients you add are also gluten-free.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Properly storing your granola will ensure it stays fresh and crunchy for as long as possible. Follow these tips for optimal storage:

1. Use an Airtight Container

   Store your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crisp texture. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best. A resealable bag can also be effective, as long as you expel as much air as possible before sealing it.

2. Keep It in a Cool, Dry Place

   To avoid the granola absorbing moisture, which can make it soggy or spoil quicker, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, such as a pantry or cupboard. A temperature of 50-70°F (10-21°C) is ideal.

3. Avoid Storing in the Fridge

   Granola does not need refrigeration and can actually lose its crunch if stored in the fridge due to moisture. The cold temperature can also impact its flavor over time.

4. Consider Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you’ve made a large batch and want to store it for a longer period, granola freezes well. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

5. Check for Freshness Regularly

   Although granola has a long shelf life when stored correctly, it’s always best to check for signs of spoilage. If it starts to taste stale or smells off, it’s time to toss it.

What Goes Well With Granola?

Granola is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, making it an excellent addition to breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Here are some of the best combinations:

1. Yogurt

   This is a classic pairing, whether you’re enjoying Greek yogurt, skyr, or a dairy-free alternative. The creaminess of the yogurt balances the crunch of the granola, while the tanginess complements the sweetness of the oats and nuts.

2. Milk

   Pour your favorite milk over your granola to enjoy it like a cereal. Almond milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk all make excellent choices. If you prefer something thicker, try adding some coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor.

3. Fresh Fruits

   Granola goes beautifully with fresh fruits. Berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) add a burst of sweetness, while banana slices offer a creamy texture. You can also add diced apples, pears, or stone fruits like peaches and plums for extra flavor.

4. Smoothies

   Top your smoothie bowl with granola for added crunch. Blended fruits, leafy greens, or protein-packed smoothie bases like yogurt or tofu work great with the added texture of granola, enhancing both the nutrition and taste.

5. Oatmeal

   Add a sprinkle of granola to your morning oatmeal for a delightful contrast in textures. The warm, creamy oats with the crunchy granola provide a balanced, satisfying meal that will keep you full all morning.

6. Ice Cream

   For a fun twist, granola also makes a delicious topping for ice cream. The crunchiness pairs wonderfully with creamy, cold treats, adding texture and an extra layer of flavor. Try it with vanilla, chocolate, or even fruity ice creams.

7. Salads

   For an unusual but delightful option, you can sprinkle granola over your salad. The crunch and sweetness pair surprisingly well with bitter greens or tangy dressings, offering a unique twist on traditional salad toppings like croutons.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s granola recipe is a fantastic base that lends itself to countless variations and pairings, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you want to experiment with spices, try different sweeteners, or make it vegan, the possibilities are endless.

And once it’s made, proper storage ensures that you can keep your granola fresh and crunchy for longer. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, milk, fruit, or even in a salad, granola is an incredibly versatile addition to your meals. With just a little creativity, you can elevate this humble dish into a delicious and nutritious part of your daily routine.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s granola recipe calls for a variety of wholesome ingredients, including rolled oats, honey, mixed nuts (such as almonds and hazelnuts), dried fruits (like raisins or cranberries), seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower), and coconut oil. You can also add a pinch of salt and cinnamon for extra flavor.

Can I Customize The Nuts And Seeds In Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe?

Absolutely!

Jamie Oliver’s granola recipe is versatile, and you can swap out the nuts and seeds to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to try cashews, walnuts, or pecans, and mix in seeds like chia, flax, or sesame for variation.

How Long Should I Bake The Granola In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

In Jamie Oliver’s recipe, you should bake the granola at 160°C (320°F) for around 20-25 minutes. Be sure to stir the granola halfway through the baking process to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes golden brown and crunchy.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe Gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Jamie Oliver’s granola gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Make sure to check that other ingredients, such as the nuts and dried fruits, are also gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten completely.

What Can I Substitute For Honey In Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe?

If you’re looking for a honey substitute, you can use maple syrup, agave syrup, or brown rice syrup. These alternatives will give your granola a slightly different sweetness and flavor but still provide the right consistency and texture.

How Should I Store Jamie Oliver’s Granola After Making It?

Once the granola has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can keep it in the fridge or freezer, but make sure it’s in a well-sealed container to preserve its crunchiness.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe Without Coconut Oil?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with other oils, such as vegetable oil or olive oil. However, using coconut oil gives the granola a slightly tropical flavor and helps it crisp up beautifully, so it’s worth considering if you like that taste.

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Granola Different From Other Granola Recipes?

Jamie Oliver’s granola stands out because it balances sweetness with wholesome ingredients like nuts, seeds, and oats. The recipe is also flexible, allowing you to mix in your favorite dried fruits and nuts, making it easy to personalize. The addition of cinnamon and a touch of salt enhances the overall flavor profile.

Can I Add Fresh Fruit To Jamie Oliver’s Granola?

While it’s best to add fresh fruit like berries or banana slices on top of the granola after it’s baked and cooled, you can mix in dried fruit during the baking process. Fresh fruit will release moisture in the oven and may affect the crispness of the granola.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Granola Recipe More Crunchy?

To achieve an extra crunchy texture, make sure to spread the granola in an even layer on the baking sheet without crowding. Stir it halfway through baking to ensure it browns evenly. If it’s not as crunchy as you’d like, you can bake it for a few more minutes, but be careful not to burn it.