Delicious Homemade Fresh Apple Cinnamon Granola: Your Perfect Fall Treat!
Embrace the crisp flavors of autumn with this incredible fresh apple granola, generously spiced with warm cinnamon and enriched with a delightful mix of tart cherries, crunchy slivered almonds, and wholesome pumpkin seeds. It’s not just a snack; it’s a versatile delight perfect for your breakfast bowl, a healthy grab-and-go option, or a thoughtful homemade gift!
There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade granola. Unlike store-bought varieties, crafting your own allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher taste and a healthier profile. This particular recipe, featuring the vibrant taste of fresh apples, truly impressed me with its delightful outcome. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a quintessential fall treat that brings warmth and comfort to any moment. Imagine starting your day with it atop creamy yogurt, packing it in lunchboxes for a wholesome energy boost, or simply enjoying a handful whenever cravings strike.
This post is proudly sponsored on behalf of #AppleWeek, a celebration of all things apple! Our incredible sponsors, Swiss Diamond, Envy Apples, Imperial Sugar, Nordic Ware, Rodelle Vanilla, Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal, Nairn’s, and The Spice House, have generously provided products essential for recipe creation and exciting prizes for our readers. As always, all opinions and enthusiasm for these products are entirely my own.
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Get ready for a week brimming with delicious apple-inspired creations! Today, we’re diving into this delightful Fresh Apple Granola, but that’s just the beginning. Later this week, you’ll discover a mouth-watering recipe for Applesauce Coffee Cake and on Wednesday, a fun and indulgent Copy Cat Dairy Queen Apple Pie Blizzard! I’m thrilled to be participating in #AppleWeek alongside a fantastic group of food bloggers. This collaborative event, expertly coordinated by Carlee from Cooking with Carlee, brings together amazing recipes and generous sponsors for both us bloggers and, more importantly, for YOU! We’ll get to those exciting prizes in a moment, but first, let’s talk about how wonderfully simple this fresh apple granola recipe is, and the absolutely incredible aroma it fills your kitchen with while it bakes!
Creating homemade apple cinnamon granola is not just easy; it’s an experience. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and crunchy additions transforms your kitchen into a cozy autumn haven. It’s a rewarding project that yields a batch of wholesome goodness you can feel good about sharing with your family or friends, or simply keeping all to yourself for a guilt-free indulgence.
Essential Ingredients for Your Fresh Apple Granola:
This recipe uses a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful apple cinnamon granola:
- Quick Oats: I personally love using Bob’s Red Mill quick oats for their ideal texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully.
- Slivered Almonds: These add a delicate crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the apples and cherries.
- Chopped Apples: Fresh apples are the star! I recommend Honeycrisp for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, and their firm texture holds up well during baking. Keep the skins on for added fiber and color.
- Dried Tart Cherries: These vibrant red gems provide a burst of tangy sweetness, creating a wonderful contrast with the apples and cinnamon.
- Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): I opt for lightly salted pepitas to introduce an extra layer of savory crunch and a touch of saltiness that enhances all the other flavors.
- Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, and Salt: Brown sugar adds deep, caramel-like sweetness, while cinnamon infuses that quintessential fall spice. A pinch of salt balances everything out.
- Honey, Olive Oil, and Vanilla: Honey provides natural sweetness and helps bind the granola, olive oil ensures a crispy texture, and vanilla extract adds a comforting aromatic depth.
The process begins by combining all the dry ingredients in a spacious bowl. This includes your quick oats, the finely chopped fresh apples (skins on, for maximum flavor and nutrition!), the tangy dried cherries, crisp slivered almonds, and the wholesome pepitas. Then, the comforting aroma of cinnamon and a dash of salt are added to the mix, creating a vibrant, colorful base that promises deliciousness.
A huge thank you to Swiss Diamond for this fantastic new paring knife, which made chopping the apples an absolute breeze!
Once all the dry and semi-wet components are in the bowl, a thorough mix ensures that every single ingredient is evenly distributed. This step is crucial for achieving consistent flavor and texture in every bite of your homemade apple granola.
Next, in a small saucepan on your stovetop, gently warm the brown sugar, honey, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture constantly until the brown sugar has fully dissolved, creating a smooth, fragrant syrup. This luscious liquid is then poured over your oat and apple mixture. Stir everything together until every oat, apple piece, and nut is beautifully coated in this sweet, sticky goodness. This ensures a golden, crispy finish after baking.
Our sincere appreciation to Rodelle for providing this exquisite bottle of their gourmet pure vanilla! It truly elevates the flavor profile of this apple cinnamon granola.
Finally, spread your coated granola mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake it until it’s perfectly dry and lightly golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even toasting. The aroma filling your home at this stage is absolutely heavenly, a true sign of deliciousness to come.
Just look at that! Doesn’t this freshly baked apple cinnamon granola look absolutely irresistible? The texture, the colors, the promise of crisp, spiced sweetness – it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Fresh Cinnamon Apple Granola:
This versatile homemade apple granola isn’t just for breakfast! Here are some fantastic ideas to incorporate its deliciousness into your daily routine and special occasions:
- Thoughtful Gifts: Package it beautifully in cute jars or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. It makes an excellent, heartfelt gift for teachers, hostesses, or anyone who appreciates a homemade touch.
- Quick On-the-Go Snack: Grab a handful for a healthy, energizing snack between meals. It’s perfect for busy mornings, afternoon slumps, or pre-workout fuel.
- Yogurt Topping & Parfaits: Elevate your plain yogurt by sprinkling a generous amount of this apple granola on top. Layer it with yogurt and fresh fruit for a stunning and satisfying parfait.
- Ice Cream Extravaganza: Add a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to your favorite ice cream. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla, caramel, or even a spiced pumpkin ice cream.
- Trail Mix Upgrade: Mix it into your homemade trail mix for an extra layer of flavor, nutrition, and textural interest.
- Pancake & Waffle Enhancement: Sprinkle some into your pancake or waffle batter before cooking, or simply scatter it on top of your finished stack for added texture, flavor, and a wholesome twist.
- Salad Surprise: For a unique sweet and savory touch, sprinkle a small amount over a fresh autumn salad, especially one featuring other fruits or a light vinaigrette.
There is SO MUCH to gain and celebrate during #AppleWeek! Beyond the hundreds of inspiring new recipes from talented food bloggers, it’s a fantastic opportunity to discover our generous sponsors and, of course, vie for some truly incredible prizes! These aren’t just any prizes; they’re thoughtfully selected items that will enhance your culinary journey.
AppleWeek Prize Pack #1 from Swiss Diamond
Experience the pinnacle of culinary excellence with Swiss Diamond’s XD 10 Piece Set Ultimate Kitchen Kit. This collection boasts Swiss Diamond’s most advanced diamond-reinforced nonstick coating, featuring 20% more real diamond crystals than their previous HD coating. Developed in Switzerland, this innovative formulation results in an exceptionally tough cooking surface that’s 40% more durable and offers 40% better food release. These pans are perfect for healthy cooking with minimal oil and offer incredibly easy cleanup. They are PFOA-free and produced with eco-friendly practices. The tempered glass lids come with adjustable steam vents, and the ergonomic handles are oven safe up to 500°F. Elevate your kitchen with Swiss precision and unparalleled nonstick performance.
Swiss Diamond, a prestigious high-end cookware brand established in 2001, prides itself on its manufacturing facility in Sierre, Switzerland. Renowned for its revolutionary nonstick coating made with genuine diamond crystals, the brand ensures exceptional durability, superior heat conduction, and a long-lasting nonstick surface. Swiss Diamond’s commitment to consumer satisfaction is evident in its use of safe, high-quality materials, innovative design, traditional European craftsmanship, and an unwavering adherence to eco-friendly production methods. Investing in Swiss Diamond means investing in quality and performance that lasts a lifetime.
AppleWeek Prize Pack #2 from Envy Apples
AppleWeek Prize Pack #3 from The Spice House
The Baker’s Gift Box
Unlock a world of flavor with The Spice House Baker’s Gift Box! Since 1957, The Spice House has been dedicated to sourcing premium spices globally, bringing you the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. Their commitment to quality is showcased through small, weekly batch grinding and blending, ensuring that every spice maintains its peak potency and aroma. This gift box is a dream come true for any baker, offering an array of essential spices that will transform your creations from good to extraordinary. Experience the difference that truly fresh spices make in your apple desserts and beyond.
Prize Pack #4 from Rodelle Vanilla
A Baker’s Dream Come True!
This incredible package will include everything a passionate baker could desire: pure vanilla extract, rich gourmet Dutch-processed baking cocoa, a special gourmet vanilla extract, whole gourmet vanilla beans, organic vanilla extract, organic chocolate extract, fragrant almond extract, versatile vanilla paste, and an assortment of fun baking supplies to help you whip up your next batch of delectable treats!
Rodelle passionately believes that quality ingredients are the cornerstone of exceptional baking. That’s why they are dedicated to offering a comprehensive line of superior baking ingredients, premium vanilla products, and exquisite gourmet spice blends. While high-quality vanilla extract may be a bit more expensive, the depth and richness of flavor it imparts are absolutely worth every penny. Rodelle works closely with a farmer-owned co-op in Madagascar, Sahanala, ensuring a sustainable farm-to-table vanilla process that directly benefits vanilla farmers and their families. Learn more about Rodelle’s admirable vertical integration efforts here. To find out where to purchase Rodelle’s outstanding ingredients near you, click here.
Prize Pack #5 from Imperial Sugar
A Sweet Tooth’s Dream Come True!
The fortunate winner of this prize will receive a bountiful supply of baking essentials: one case of 2-lb granulated sugar (20 bags!), one case of 2-lb light brown sugar (24 lbs total), a high-quality silicone baking mat, and a custom apron to complete your baking attire. Get ready to bake up a storm!
For an impressive 175 years, Imperial Sugar has been a beloved and trusted name in family kitchens across the South. We believe that sweet moments are made when people gather in the kitchen, and that’s why Imperial Sugar has remained at the heart of countless family traditions and celebrations for generations. It’s the essential, often secret, ingredient in cherished family-favorite recipes passed down from one generation to the next. Home cooks know that when you bake with love and Imperial Sugar, you’re not just making a treat; you’re creating lasting memories. Visit ImperialSugar.com for a treasure trove of over 100 years of time-tested recipes, engaging kid’s crafts, helpful how-to videos, exclusive coupons, exciting giveaways, and so much more.
Prize Pack # 6 from Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal and Nairn’s Oatcakes
Flahavan’s and Nairn’s have joined forces to present an “oatstanding” prize pack, overflowing with naturally creamy, sustainably sourced Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal and our go-to gluten-free grahams by Nairn’s. We have a very good gut feeling that you are going to absolutely adore this wholesome combination!
Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal, a testament to tradition and sustainability, has been grown and milled in Co. Waterford, Ireland, by the Flahavan’s family since 1785. For generations, they have meticulously sourced the finest oats from the same dedicated Irish farming families. Flahavan’s oats are milled in small batches and minimally processed, adhering to a 230-year-old milling tradition, and are uniquely double kilned for a distinctive flavor. They are non-GMO and naturally gluten-free, offering a truly wholesome and nourishing start to your day.
Nairn’s Gluten Free Grahams are more than just “rather good” – they’re exceptional in multiple ways. Crafted exclusively with the finest wholegrain oats, they are naturally energizing and clinically proven to help reduce cholesterol. At a mere 45 calories per piece, they offer a healthier alternative to conventional graham crackers, boasting 40% less sugar! But the true comfort comes from knowing that every delicious, gluten-free bite is rigorously batch-tested to Elisa standards, ensuring they are genuinely safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Prize Pack #7 from Nordic Ware
Perfect for baking all of these delectable AppleWeek treats and countless other delights, Nordic Ware will award one lucky winner an exquisite apple cakelet pan and their versatile prism baker’s bundle, which includes a quarter and a half sheet pan! These high-quality baking essentials will empower you to create stunning and delicious culinary masterpieces with ease.
Nordic Ware, a proud family-owned and operated kitchenware company since 1946, has steadily cultivated its reputation as an internationally recognized and distributed brand. As a leading manufacturer and innovator in the culinary world, Nordic Ware crafts the vast majority of its exceptional products right in America, at its Minneapolis headquarters. Their diverse product line includes an array of bakeware, cookware, grillware, microwave-safe items, and a variety of kitchen gadgets and accessories, all designed with quality and performance in mind.
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How absolutely AWESOME are all of these prizes?! They are sure to inspire your next baking adventure!
Discover More Deliciousness: New Recipes for Today, Sunday, September 23!
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- Apple Cinnamon Cakelets by Amy’s Cooking Adventures
- Apple Fritters by Seduction in the Kitchen
- Apple Pecan Sticky Bun Bites by Soulfully Made
- Apple Pie Monkey Bread by The Bitter Side of Sweet
- Apple Pull Apart Bread by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
- Apple Sage Turkey Breakfast Sausage by Simple and Savory
- Apple Slaw by Girl Abroad
- Apple Spice Cake by Mildly Meandering
- Applejack Rabbit Cocktail by Karen’s Kitchen Stories
- Applesauce Nut Bread by Palatable Pastime
- Cider Braised Chicken Breasts by Everyday Eileen
- Cider Doughnuts by The Redhead Baker
- Fresh Apple Granola by An Affair from the Heart
- Caramel Apple Whoopie Pies by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
- Seared Steak with Envy-able Apples by Culinary Adventures With Camilla
- Warm Spiced Apple Topping by Family Around the Table
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Now that you’ve had a chance to enter the amazing giveaway and peek at all the other inspiring recipes, let’s get down to business with this incredible Fresh Apple Granola recipe, shall we?
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Print Recipe
Fresh Apple Granola
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cup quick oats
- 1 medium apple cored and diced, skin left on (Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds, lightly salted preferred)
- 1/2 cup diced dried tart cherries
- 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced fresh apples, dried tart cherries, quick oats, slivered almonds, pepitas, cinnamon, and salt. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well distributed.
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In a small saucepan, gently warm the brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and olive oil over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Pour this warm liquid over the oat mixture in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly until all dry ingredients are evenly coated.
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Spread the granola mixture evenly onto your prepared cookie sheet. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, stirring occasionally (about every 15-20 minutes) to promote even browning and crispness. The granola is ready when it is dry to the touch and lightly golden brown.
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Allow the granola to cool completely to room temperature on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container for storage. This cooling process helps it crisp up beautifully.
Notes
Nutrition
Disclaimer: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the #AppleWeek Sponsors: Swiss Diamond, Nordic Ware, Envy Apples, Imperial Sugar, The Spice House, Rodelle Vanilla, Flahavan’s Irish Oats, and Nairn’s. Your generous provision of prizes and product samples for our AppleWeek recipes is deeply appreciated. All opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. The #AppleWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for potential winners will be meticulously checked and verified to ensure fairness. By entering, you grant the right to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. The number of eligible entries received directly determines the odds of winning. Seven (7) winners will be selected in total. The prize packages will be shipped directly from the respective giveaway sponsors. The AppleWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of any prize packages. Please note that bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate household family members are ineligible to enter or win the giveaway. No purchase is necessary to enter. This promotion is void where prohibited by law. Furthermore, this promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, or any other social channel mentioned in the #AppleWeek posts or entry forms.