I have been making granola on a regular basis this winter (here's my all-time favorite recipe!). One thing I always have a problem with, though, is neatly transferring the baked granola from the big baking sheet to a bowl. It slithers and scatters everywhere! Then I realized there is a very, very simple solution for this.
Parchment paper!
I love parchment paper; it makes so many baking jobs easier. And granola is definitely one of them. Simply line the baking sheet with parchment, leaving a little extra at the ends. Then, when the granola is baked and cooled, lift the parchment carefully to funnel the granola into a bowl or jars.
Of course you can also use a Silpat or reusable parchment paper.
It's a simple tip, but it's already saved some of my granola from falling on the floor!
Do you have any other tips for easier granola-making, and easier clean-up?
Related: D.I.Y. Recipe: Basic Granola Formula
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With recipes that call for dried fruit, I've found leaving it out of the finished granola until serving helps it keep crunchy and fresh tasting for far longer.
I agree...I bake granola (weekly, since it is delicious with yogurt) with just the nuts alone and then add the dried fruit prior to serving. In our house the kids are partial to dried cherries and apricots. Pure comfort.
This is my favourite recipe:
http://www.artoflivingwell.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=166&Itemid=6
I turn the oven off, open the door slightly and allow it to bake until it is the crunchy consistency desired. The smell of the ginger gets everyone excited. Enjoy.
Genius! I always get granola all over the place when transferring from baking sheet to container. This is a great idea. Thank you.
How long does this granola keep?
Craftyvegan: my favourite recipe keeps well for about 2 weeks in an airtight container. If you like it really fresh, you can always make half a batch as needed.
I just discovered parchment paper and love it ... and now another reason to keep it around!
This inspired me to try the basic granola formula. It was great, but it didn't clump. Anyone have any suggestions on getting a more clustered granola?