Homemade Fruit and Nut Muesli – Healthy, Crunchy & Energizing
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a nutritious, energizing, and naturally delicious breakfast, fruit and nut muesli is the perfect choice. Packed with wholesome rolled oats, crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruits, and seeds, this make-ahead cereal is both versatile and satisfying.
Unlike store-bought muesli that can be loaded with added sugar, this homemade version lets you control the ingredients while keeping it fresh, flavorful, and full of nutrients. You can enjoy it cold with milk, soaked overnight, or even warm like oatmeal.
By the end of this recipe, you’ll have a customizable muesli base and ideas for countless variations — perfect for meal prepping your mornings.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats – The hearty, fiber-rich base for your muesli.
- 1 cup mixed nuts – Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, or cashews for crunch and healthy fats.
- ½ cup seeds – Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for extra nutrients.
- 1 cup dried fruit – Raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, or dates for natural sweetness.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting aroma.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Shredded coconut for tropical flavor
- Cacao nibs for a hint of chocolate
- Freeze-dried berries for a tangy twist
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and cinnamon. - Toast for Extra Flavor (Optional)
Spread mixture on a baking sheet and toast at 160°C (320°F) for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely. - Add Dried Fruits
Stir in raisins, cranberries, or other dried fruits once the mixture is cool to prevent burning during toasting. - Store Properly
Transfer to an airtight jar or container and store in a cool, dry place.
4. Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve with cold milk or your favorite plant-based milk.
- Overnight Soak: Soak in milk or yogurt overnight for a creamy, ready-to-eat breakfast.
- Warm Bowl: Heat with milk or water like oatmeal on cold mornings.
- Topping: Sprinkle over smoothie bowls or yogurt parfaits for crunch.
5. Tips & Variations
- Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- For a low-sugar muesli, use unsweetened dried fruits or reduce their quantity.
- Swap cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg for different spice notes.
- Mix in protein powder for an extra energy boost.
6. Storage & Shelf Life
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months for longer freshness.
- Always keep away from moisture to maintain crispness.
7. Nutrition Information (Per Serving – about ½ cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 5mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Iron | 1.8mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
8. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Breakfast / Snack
Cuisine: International
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0–10 minutes (optional toasting)
Total Time: 10–20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped
- ½ cup seeds
- 1 cup dried fruit
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Mix oats, nuts, seeds, and cinnamon.
- Toast for extra flavor (optional).
- Stir in dried fruits once cooled.
- Store airtight.
9. Final Thoughts
Fruit and nut muesli is a breakfast superstar — easy to make, full of energy-boosting nutrients, and endlessly customizable. Once you make your own, you may never go back to store-bought.