Easy Blueberry Flax Granola Recipe

23

Made with care and thoughtfulness, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining simple, wholesome ingredients to create a meal that is both nourishing and indulgent. As someone who cherishes the ritual of morning nourishment and understands the importance of starting the day on the right note, I found myself drawn to the vibrant hues and rustic charm of blueberries and flaxseeds mingling together. This Blueberry Flax Granola is not just a recipe; it’s a morning ritual, a quiet celebration of health and flavor, designed to be as inviting as it is beneficial.

How to make Blueberry Flax Granola

Blueberry Flax Granola is a type of granola that features a blend of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners, with added blueberries and flaxseeds. The blueberries provide a fruity flavor and natural sweetness, while the flaxseeds offer a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

What is in blueberry flax granola?

• 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats (ensure they’re gluten-free if necessary)
• 1 cup of raw almonds, chopped (or any nuts of your choice)
• 1/2 cup of flaxseed meal (ground flaxseeds for a boost of omega-3s and fiber)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (to enhance the flavors)
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (for that warm, comforting aroma)
• 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil (or another oil of your preference, but coconut adds a lovely flavor)
• 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup or honey (for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (adds depth to the granola’s flavor profile)
• 1 cup of dried blueberries (for a burst of fruity flavor and antioxidants)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the granola from sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped almonds, flaxseed meal, salt, and cinnamon. Give these dry ingredients a good stir to ensure they are well mixed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. This will be your binding and flavoring agent that brings the dry mixture to life.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well, ensuring all the oats and nuts are coated evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect clump of granola goodness.
5. Spread the granola mixture evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press down slightly, which helps in forming those sought-after clusters.
6. Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring gently every 15 minutes to ensure even baking. Watch for a golden hue and a fragrant kitchen – signs that your granola is near perfection.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. The granola will further crisp up as it cools.
8. Once cooled, stir in the dried blueberries. Adding them post-baking ensures they remain soft and chewy.

Tips for the Perfect Granola:

• Oven Temperatures Can Vary: Keep an eye on your granola, especially after the 30-minute mark, to prevent burning.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: This step is crucial for that satisfying crunch. Store in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
• Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your granola. Chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even chocolate chips (added after cooling) can make great additions.
• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it over yogurt, mixed with fresh fruit, or by the handful – because it’s just that good.

What to serve with

Blueberry Flax Granola, with its delightful crunch and burst of flavors, is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re looking to amplify your breakfast game, create a nutritious snack, or even sprinkle a bit of joy on your desserts, here are some inspired ideas on what to serve with this homemade granola.

1. With Yogurt: One of the most classic and loved combinations is granola with yogurt. The creamy texture of yogurt, particularly Greek yogurt for its richness and higher protein content, complements the crunchy granola perfectly. Add a layer of fresh blueberries or mixed berries to mirror the dried blueberries in the granola and bring a fresh tartness that balances the sweetness.

2. As a Smoothie Bowl Topping: Elevate your smoothie bowls by sprinkling a generous amount of Blueberry Flax Granola on top. Whether your bowl is green, berry-based, or tropical, the granola adds a delightful crunch and a nutritional boost. For an antioxidant-rich start, blend acai berries, bananas, and a splash of almond milk in your bowl, then top with granola.

3. With Milk as a Cereal: Enjoy it in the simplest yet profoundly comforting form, as a cereal. Pour your choice of milk—dairy or plant-based options like almond, oat, or coconut milk—over the granola. This easy and quick serving idea is perfect for busy mornings or when craving a no-fuss, nutritious snack.

4. A Parfait Layer: Create a visually appealing and delicious parfait by layering granola with yogurt and fruits. Use a clear glass and start with a layer of yogurt, followed by a layer of granola, then fresh fruits such as sliced strawberries, bananas, or more blueberries. Repeat the layers until the glass is full. It’s a gorgeous breakfast or dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat.

5. Topped on Baked Goods: For a lovely textural contrast, sprinkle the granola over baked goods before they go into the oven, such as muffins, bread, or even apple crisps. It adds a crunchy topping that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

6. With Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt: For a decadent treat, sprinkle granola over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt. The granola adds a satisfying crunch and a nutritional boost to your dessert, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Consider warming the granola slightly in the oven to create a delightful temperature contrast with the cold treat.

7. As a Snack: Of course, Blueberry Flax Granola is perfectly delicious on its own. Pack a small container or baggie to take on the go, or keep a jar on your desk for those moments when you need a quick, satisfying snack.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making Blueberry Flax Granola offers room for creativity and personalization, especially when it comes to substituting ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, allergies, or simply to use what you have on hand.

Oats:

Substitute: While whole rolled oats are typically used for their texture and nutritional profile, you can substitute them with quick oats for a softer texture. For a gluten-free version, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Quinoa flakes or buckwheat groats can be used for a different texture and flavor profile.

Blueberries:

Substitute: If fresh blueberries aren’t available or if you prefer the texture of dried fruit in your granola, dried blueberries are an excellent substitute. Alternatively, other dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or chopped dates can be used. For a different yet delightful twist, use freeze-dried blueberries; they’ll add a crunch and intense flavor.

Flax Seeds:

Substitute: Flax seeds add a nutty flavor and are packed with nutrients. If you need to substitute, chia seeds are an excellent alternative, offering similar omega-3 fatty acids and fiber content. Ground or whole, they can be used in the same quantity. Hemp seeds are another alternative, adding a different texture and a boost of protein.

Nuts and Seeds:

Substitute: Almonds, walnuts, or pecans are often included for their crunch and nutritional benefits. If you’re allergic to nuts or simply wish to try something different, seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds make great substitutes. For a nut-free granola, you can use all seeds or incorporate coconut flakes for additional texture and flavor.

Sweeteners:

Substitute: Honey or maple syrup are common binders and sweeteners in granola recipes. For a vegan option, agave nectar or brown rice syrup can be used. If you prefer a less sweet granola, you can reduce the amount of sweetener or use mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce, adjusting the quantity to achieve the desired sweetness and consistency.

Oil:

Substitute: Coconut oil is a popular choice for its subtle sweetness and health benefits. However, for those avoiding coconut, vegetable oil, canola oil, or a light olive oil can be used as a substitute. For an oil-free version, unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana can add moistness, though the texture of the final product may be slightly different.

Spices:

Substitute: Cinnamon is a common spice added for warmth and flavor. Feel free to substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist, cardamom for a floral note, or nutmeg for depth. Adjust the quantity according to taste, as some spices can be more potent than others.

Vanilla Extract:

Substitute: Vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic flavor. For a different flavor profile, almond extract can be used, or you can omit extracts altogether. A zest of orange or lemon can also add a fresh twist without the alcohol content present in extracts.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Flax Granola recipe not only promises a delicious and hearty meal or snack but also a time of joy in the kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or simply in need of a comforting snack, this granola is sure to bring a smile to your face with its wholesome ingredients and tantalizing flavors.

More Blueberry Recipes:

• Copycat Winco Blueberry Muffin Mix Recipe
• Blueberry Strawberry Shortcake Recipe