If you have ever thought about taking your homemade granola game to the next level, the Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe is the perfect way to start. This crunchy, wholesome mix combines the nutty charm of cooked barley with the familiar comfort of oats, toasted nuts, and sweet bursts of dried fruit. It’s an easy, delicious, and nourishing breakfast or snack option that brings a fresh twist to your usual granola routine. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to for mornings or anytime you crave something both satisfying and cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of staple pantry ingredients that create a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors. Each element plays a vital role to ensure your granola turns out perfectly balanced, whether that’s the chewiness of the barley or the sweetness of the honey.
- 1 cup cooked barley: Provides a hearty, chewy base with a unique nutty flavor you won’t find in typical granola.
- 1 cup rolled oats: Classic granola ingredient for that familiar, crunchy texture.
- ½ cup mixed nuts: Adds a toasty crunch and rich protein, choose your favorites like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
- ¼ cup honey: Natural sweetener that helps bind everything together and adds a lovely golden glaze.
- 2 tbsp coconut oil: Gives a hint of tropical richness and helps the granola crisp up beautifully while baking.
- ¼ cup dried fruit: Bursts of chewy sweetness added after baking to keep their vibrant flavor and texture.
How to Make Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, gather your cooked barley, oats, and nuts. Make sure your barley is fully cooked and cooled, as this ensures the perfect chewy texture without excess moisture in your granola.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked barley, rolled oats, and mixed nuts. This trio forms the crunchy and hearty backbone of your granola, and mixing them evenly helps guarantee every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Add the Honey and Coconut Oil
Drizzle the ¼ cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over the dry mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss everything together until the oats, barley, and nuts are evenly coated. This luscious coating not only sweetens the granola but also helps it crisp up nicely in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Crunchy Perfection
Spread the granola mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Be sure to stir the granola halfway through baking; this ensures every piece gets gorgeous golden edges and an even crunch. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbrown — you want that perfect toasted aroma without burning the nuts.
Step 5: Add the Dried Fruit
Once your granola comes out of the oven and has cooled slightly, stir in the dried fruit. Adding it after baking preserves the chewy texture and vibrant sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy mix.
How to Serve Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of fresh berries or a dusting of cinnamon over your barley granola to add a colorful, fresh touch. Chopped fresh mint or a light drizzle of yogurt on top also elevates the presentation and flavor profile effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This granola pairs so well with creamy Greek yogurt or your favorite plant-based milk. For a delightful balance, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or sliced banana for added natural sweetness and a nutrient boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe into a parfait glass with alternating layers of yogurt and fresh fruit. It makes a beautiful breakfast or brunch centerpiece that looks as good as it tastes. You can also use it as a topping for smoothie bowls to add an irresistible crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade barley granola keeps beautifully in an airtight jar or container for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed helps retain the crunch and prevents the nuts and oats from becoming stale.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life even further, freeze the granola in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature to maintain its fresh taste and texture.
Reheating
While this granola is fantastic straight from the container, you can warm a small portion in the oven at low heat for a few minutes to revive that perfectly toasted crunch. Just be careful to avoid overheating, which can quickly dry out the nuts.
FAQs
Can I use other grains besides barley?
Absolutely! While barley adds a unique chew and nutty flavor, you can experiment with cooked quinoa or millet for variations, though they will alter the texture slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, by swapping honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, you make the recipe fully vegan while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
How long should I bake the granola for the best crunch?
Twenty-five minutes at 325°F with a halfway stir is ideal to get that perfect crunch without burning. Oven times can vary, so keep an eye to prevent over-toasting.
Can I customize the nuts and dried fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to use any nuts or dried fruits you love or have on hand. Just make sure to chop larger nuts for even baking and use dried fruits without added sugars for a healthier twist.
How do I cook barley for this granola?
To cook barley, rinse it under cold water, then simmer it in water or broth for about 30-40 minutes until tender but still chewy. Drain and cool completely before using.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about making your own granola from scratch, and the Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe is a brilliant, easy way to enjoy a wholesome, crunchy treat that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re fueling your morning or grabbing a quick snack, this recipe promises a delicious combination of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and share the joy—your taste buds will thank you!
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Barley Granola with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy homemade granola baked with cooked barley, rolled oats, and toasted mixed nuts, sweetened with honey and coconut oil. This wholesome and flavorful granola is perfect to enjoy with yogurt, milk, or as a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Grains and Nuts
- 1 cup cooked barley (dry and cooled)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup mixed nuts
Wet Ingredients
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
Additional Ingredients
- ¼ cup dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 °F (165 °C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the granola evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked barley, rolled oats, and mixed nuts, ensuring they are well distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Drizzle the honey and melted coconut oil over the dry mixture and stir thoroughly so all the grains and nuts are coated evenly.
- Bake the Granola: Spread the mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even toasting and prevent burning.
- Add Dried Fruit: Once baked and golden, remove the granola from the oven and stir in the dried fruit to distribute it throughout the granola while still warm.
- Cool and Store: Allow the granola to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight jar for storage. This helps maintain its crunchy texture.
Notes
- Store granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to preserve freshness and crunch.
- Feel free to customize the nuts and dried fruits according to your preference.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
