Fruit and Nut Granola

Homemade Granola

I really love good granola.  Not too sweet and loaded with nuts, fruits, seeds and more. Sadly, much of what is available in the stores is too sweet and lacking the extras I enjoy. I end up making my own and getting exactly what I want. Granola is easy to make, too. Sweetened with just a little honey and loaded with nuts, seeds and fruit it becomes more than just a handy breakfast food. It is also great as a snack. This batch I used walnuts, coconut, almonds, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds plus dried cherries, raisins and dried blueberries. Also nice if you have kids- it’s a pretty healthy snack choice- and the kids can pick what they like to add to it.

Granola

3 c. rolled oats

1/4 -1/2 c. each of any of the following to equal 1-2 c. total

Sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, wheat germ, peanuts, pecans, almonds, hazel nuts, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, coconut… you get the idea. Don’t forget to chop up any big pieces.

1 t. cinnamon

1 t. orange peel

1/2 t. nutmeg

pinch of salt, optional

1/4 c. oil

1/4 c. honey- or add a little more if you like a sweeter granola

2 t. vanilla

Dried fruit to equal 1 -1 1/2 cups. Some choices could include: raisins, dried cranberries, cherries, pineapple, dates, figs, apricots, bananas, blueberries etc.

In large bowl combine oats with seeds and nuts and toss well with seasonings. Heat together oil, honey and vanilla and pour over oat mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Spread on a cookie sheet and bake in a 300 degree oven for 30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time stir mixture so the edges won’t burn. Remove from oven and return to large bowl. Toss with the dried fruit and allow to cool before storing in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Use in 1 month or store in freezer or fridge to keep longer. Makes 5-7 cups.