Gratitude Granola: Teaching Thankfulness One Scoop at a Time
In My Crumby World, every recipe comes with a sprinkle of love and a dash of life lessons—and this one is no exception. As Thanksgiving approaches, the Breadcrumbz are sharing a special recipe that’s not only delicious but also helps kids practice gratitude in a hands-on way.
Penelope Pumpernickel calls it Gratitude Granola, and it’s a recipe that nourishes both the heart and the tummy! 💛
🌾 The Meaning Behind the Mix
When we bake or cook with kids, we’re not just creating snacks—we’re creating space for connection. Gratitude Granola helps children slow down, reflect, and recognize all the things (and people!) that make their lives wonderful.
Each ingredient represents something meaningful. Oats remind us of strength, honey of sweetness in our relationships, and nuts or fruit of the colorful people who make life rich. As you stir, talk with your child about what each one stands for. It’s a Breaducation moment—one that fills your kitchen with kindness and cinnamon.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
3 cups old-fashioned oats
½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup coconut oil or butter, melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix oats, nuts, coconut, and cinnamon.
3️⃣ Add the sweetness: Stir in honey (or maple syrup), melted oil, and vanilla. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
4️⃣ Spread and bake: Pour the mixture onto your baking sheet in a thin, even layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
5️⃣ Add dried fruit: Once cooled, stir in your dried fruit. Store in an airtight jar or container.
Breaducation Moment
As you bake, invite your child to name something they’re thankful for with every ingredient they add.
💬 “What’s something that makes your heart feel warm, like the honey?”
💬 “Who adds color to your life, like these cranberries?”
By linking gratitude to a sensory experience—smells, textures, and tastes—kids are more likely to remember and reflect on it.
Crumbz of Connection: Make It a Family Tradition
The Breadcrumbz believe gratitude grows when it’s shared! Once your granola cools, scoop some into small mason jars and tie them with ribbon or twine. Add a tag that says, “I’m grateful for you!”
Deliver them to neighbors, teachers, or friends as a small act of kindness. It’s an easy way to show kids that gratitude isn’t just something we feel—it’s something we give.
Why Gratitude Matters for Kids
Practicing gratitude helps kids:
Develop stronger relationships and empathy
Build emotional resilience and optimism
Learn to focus on abundance instead of comparison
Strengthen family connection through reflection and sharing
And when gratitude is baked into everyday moments, it becomes part of who they are.
