Granola — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Granola should be well-toasted with a golden color and contain a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. It should have a crunchy texture and a balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Check that the granola is clump-free unless otherwise desired.

Avoid granola that is overly sweet or sticky, which can indicate excessive use of sweeteners. High-quality granola should be crisp and not overly hard, with each ingredient discernible.

Granola should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunchiness and flavor. Properly stored, granola can last up to six months.

Humidity can make granola lose its crunch. It's best to keep it away from heat sources. Sealing the container tightly helps preserve its texture and taste, making it a perfect snack anytime.

Granola can last for 6-12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it is best to consume it within 3-6 months for optimal freshness. Proper storage helps maintain its crunchiness and flavor.

Leftover granola can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Sprinkle it over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor, or mix it into fruit salads for a nutty texture. Granola is also great when added to baked goods, where it provides a crunchy topping for muffins, cakes, or bread.

Use granola as a topping for pancakes or waffles, where its crunch contrasts with the soft texture. If you have a lot of granola, consider making a batch of granola bars by mixing it with honey, peanut butter, and dried fruits, then pressing it into a pan and baking. Granola can also be used as a topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt, or mixed into trail mix with nuts, seeds, and chocolate. For a quick snack, enjoy granola with milk or sprinkle it over a sliced banana or apple for added flavor and crunch.