Granola Your Way
Store bought granolas are often filled with lots of sugar and added fats. This easy granola recipe has no added fat, and lets you control how much sweetener to add. And, to make it even better, Â you can customize the recipe with your favorite nuts and dried fruit! Eating whole grains and nutrient-rich nuts has never been tastier or easier!
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3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1/4 cups chopped nuts
1/4 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
1/2 cup pure maple syrup or warm honey
Scant 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon (or other spice)
1/2 cup dried fruit, chopped (optional)
Preheat oven to 300 F. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients except for the dried fruit. Mix well. If you use honey, you might need to mix with your hands for the most even coating. Spread mixture on prepared baking sheet.
Bake 30 – 45 minutes, stirring occasionally (honey cooks quicker than maple syrup). The goal is for the mixture to appear toasted and golden brown. Transfer banking sheet to wire rack and let cool completely. Mix in dried fruit when cooled. Store in air tight container up to 2 weeks.
Makes about 5 1/2 cups. Serving size, 1/2 cup.
Make it yours with the suggestions below.
- Choose your favorite nuts and seeds. A combination of pecans and almonds works well. Also try walnuts or pistachios. Love peanuts? Go for it! Toss in some pumpkin or sunflower seeds if you like.
- Tired of cinnamon? Try adding some nutmeg or allspice. Add powdered ginger for a nice change.
- Tired of raisins in granola? How about chopping up some dried apricots, apples, peaches or mango? Dried cherries anyone?
- My favorite combination: pecans, 3/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, maple syrup, and chopped dried apple. Tastes like an apple crisp!
- How to eat this happy goodness? Use as a topping for plain, Greek yogurt. Add to your favorite morning cereal. Add to your cooked oatmeal for a great texture. Heck, just grab a handful for a snack!
