Simple Homemade Granola

I spend too much of my time over-romanticizing foods that I have once eaten and then trying to chase down that feeling/taste in the exact perfect recipe. This is one of those recipes. I ate a yogurt parfait at an R&D plant trial in 2018 that has haunted me ever since trying to replicate, and the thing that was holding me up was the granola. I think this granola recipe finally gets me there. It’s super simple but the combination of coconut, cinnamon and maple syrup of just perfection. And even if you’re not trying to chase down a food tasting high from years ago, there’s something about homemade granola that just feels like a win. It makes the house smell cozy, turns basic yogurt into something special, and gives you a grab and go breakfast option for busy mornings that just feels… elevated.

This simple homemade granola recipe uses pantry staples like oats, shredded coconut, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon. It bakes low and slow for the perfect golden crunch — and it’s incredibly easy to customize. It’s especially good layered into a parfait or served alongside a cozy homemade drink like my banana bread latte or topped with a spoonful of blueberry cobbler simple syrup. If you’ve never made your own granola before, this is the recipe to start with. You’ll fall in love with it just like I did.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Granola

• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
• Perfectly crunchy clusters
• Freezer-friendly
• Budget-friendly compared to store-bought
• Easy to customize with add-ins

And truly — once you make it once, you’ll never want to buy granola again.

How to Make Homemade Granola

Ingredients for Simple Granola

• 3 cups old fashioned oats (not quick oats!)
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup oil (any neutral oil – melted coconut oil works well)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Step By Step Instructions

Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Mix well so everything is evenly coated.

If you want larger granola clusters, gently press it down with a spatula before baking.

Tips for the Best Crunchy Granola

• Don’t crank up the heat — low and slow gives the best texture.
• Press the mixture down before baking for bigger clusters.
• Let it cool fully before breaking apart.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Easy Add-In Ideas

How to Serve Homemade Granola

• Over vanilla Greek yogurt
• With fresh berries and honey
• With milk like cereal
• Sprinkled on smoothie bowls
• Layered in parfaits
• Packed in snack bags for on-the-go

It also makes a sweet little hostess gift when poured into a mason jar and tied with twine.

FAQ About Homemade Granola

One of Those Simple Wins

There’s something that just feels like  you’re conquering the world about having a jar of homemade granola sitting on the counter. This simple granola recipe feels like one of those “little things” that makes everyday life easier — whether it’s a quick breakfast, a cozy snack, or an easy topping for something special. If you make it, try one batch plain first (it’s SO good!)… then start experimenting with your own fun twists and let me know what you tried!

Print Recipe

Simple Homemade Granola

An easy homemade granola recipe made with oats, shredded coconut, maple syrup, and brown sugar. This crunchy baked granola is perfect for breakfast, yogurt parfaits, or healthy snacks.

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: crunchy granola, easy granola recipe, homemade granola, simple granola recipe

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup oil avocado oil, melted coconut oil, or other neutral oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 275°F.
• In a large mixing bowl, stir together brown sugar, maple syrup, oil, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
• Add oats and shredded coconut. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
• Spread mixture onto a large baking sheet in an even layer. Gently press down with a spatula if you prefer larger clusters.
• Leave a small open space in the center of the pan to help heat circulate for even baking.
• Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.
• Remove from oven and allow granola to cool completely before breaking into clusters.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For larger clusters, avoid stirring after baking and let it cool fully before breaking apart.

You can substitute honey for maple syrup in a 1:1 ratio.

Stir in dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips after the granola has cooled.

This recipe doubles easily — just use two baking sheets for even baking.