There’s something truly magical about granola. It’s that delightful blend of crunch and sweetness, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa, the nutty flavor of toasted almonds, and the indulgent richness of dark chocolate, all brought together with the warm, nutty essence of brown butter. This Crunchy Quinoa, Toasted Almond and Dark Chocolate Brown Butter Granola will not only satisfy your cravings but also fuel your body with nutritious ingredients. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Why Cooks Rave About It
This granola is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s packed with protein from quinoa and almonds, making it a filling breakfast option that keeps you energized throughout the day. The combination of toasted almonds and dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch, while the brown butter provides a depth of flavor that elevates this granola above the rest. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or simply by the handful as a snack.
Ingredient Checklist
- 2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup toasted sliced almonds
- ½ cup ground flaxseed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Equipment at a Glance
- Baking sheet – for toasting the granola
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients
- Small saucepan – for melting the butter and mixing in honey
- Spatula – for mixing and spreading the granola
Crunchy Quinoa, Toasted Almond and Dark Chocolate Brown Butter Granola.: How It’s Done
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that crispy texture without burning the granola.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking and make for an easy cleanup later.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, cooked quinoa, toasted sliced almonds, ground flaxseed, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Brown the Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue to cook it, swirling occasionally, until it turns a lovely golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once the butter is browned, remove it from the heat and stir in the honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the brown butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. This is the key to achieving that crunchy texture.
Step 7: Bake the Granola
Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. The granola should be golden brown and fragrant.
Step 8: Add Dark Chocolate
Once the granola is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the warm granola, allowing them to melt slightly and stick to the mixture.
Step 9: Cool and Store
Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into clusters and store in an airtight container.
No-Store Runs Needed
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – a pantry staple
- Cooked quinoa – great for using leftovers
- Toasted sliced almonds – easy to toast at home
- Ground flaxseed – can be found in most grocery stores
- Salt and cinnamon – common in your spice cabinet
- Unsalted butter – always handy for baking
- Honey – a natural sweetener you may already have
- Vanilla extract – adds flavor, and you likely have it
- Dark chocolate chips – perfect for snacking!
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Crunchy Quinoa, Toasted Almond and Dark Chocolate Brown Butter Granola is not just delicious, but it’s also customizable! Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or seeds. If almonds aren’t your thing, try walnuts or pecans. For a different chocolate experience, you could use milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips. Just remember to keep the ratios similar to maintain the texture and flavor.
The key to achieving that perfect crunch is to not skip the stirring halfway through baking. This ensures that every bit gets evenly toasted and prevents any clumping. Also, don’t be alarmed if it seems a bit soft when you take it out of the oven; it will harden as it cools.
How to Store & Reheat
Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about two weeks, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s just too good! If you want to make it last longer, consider storing it in the fridge for up to a month. You can enjoy it straight out of the container, or if you prefer it warm, simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Questions People Ask
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Instant oats may not provide the same texture and crunch that rolled oats do, as they can become mushy when baked. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results.
How can I make this granola vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a plant-based butter in place of unsalted butter.
Can I add dried fruit to this granola?
Absolutely! Dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or apricots can add a wonderful chewiness to the granola. Just add them in after baking to prevent them from becoming too hard.
Is it possible to make this granola gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure that you use gluten-free rolled oats and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
In Closing
If you’re looking for a breakfast option that’s not only wholesome but also deliciously indulgent, look no further than this Crunchy Quinoa, Toasted Almond and Dark Chocolate Brown Butter Granola. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy munching!
Crunchy Quinoa, Toasted Almond and Dark Chocolate Brown Butter Granola.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cooked quinoa, toasted almonds, ground flaxseed, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly distributed.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
- Remove from heat and stir in the honey and vanilla extract.
- Pour the brown butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- After baking, let it cool for 10 minutes and then sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the warm granola.
- Let the granola cool completely before breaking it into clusters and storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Customize with your favorite nuts or seeds!
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks at room temperature.
