Orange and Almond Granola

Orange and Almond Granola

Let’s make a seasonal take on my all-time favourite granola recipe! This one is infused with citrusy orange and the warm, nutty crunch of almonds. Having a stock of this on hand makes for easy snacking and delicious breakfast options.

My love affair with granola runs deep and I try not to bore you all over on instagram with the many variations that I’m constantly creating over here... But this one is too good to share! Especially since the holidays are upon us - this is such a thoughtful and lovely kitchen creation that you can gift to loved ones and neighbours.

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A post shared by Christie Chapman (@christies.lovestory)

Orange Infused Sugar

Rubbing the orange zest into the sugar with your fingers creates a vibrant and aromatic sugar that will infuse your granola with the warm, citrusy scent of oranges.

Orange and Almond Granola

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp orange zest

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1 ½ cup raw, slivered almonds

• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup hemp seeds

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• ½ cup melted coconut oil (or use an oil of your choice. Olive oil would be nice here too)

• 1/2 can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• ¾ cup raisins, preferably golden or dried apricots, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, combine the orange zest and sugar. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar until it’s bright orange and very fragrant. This step will ensure that your granola is infused with orange flavour.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, almonds, salt, cinnamon and orange sugar. Stir to combine. Pour in the oil, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla, and mix well.

4. Pour the granola onto your prepared baking sheet. Spread the granola into an even layer. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway, until the granola is turning lightly golden in colour. The granola will crisp up as it cools.

5. Let the granola cool before stirring in the raisins.

   Store the granola in an airtight container. It will keep for about 2 weeks, or longer in the freezer.

I love gifting granola during the holidays. I’ve mentally started my list of people I want to acknowledge and thank for all that they do for our family. So far, I’ve got coaches, crossing-guards, dear friends, teachers, carpool parents…..who am I missing?

If you try this recipe, please share your thoughts! I love to hear what you are making and who you are gifting this holiday season!