Granola Gourmet: Crafting the Perfect Crunch

By Roni Rivera

There is nothing better than this homemade granola. Easy to make and packed with vitamins and minerals, this sweet and crunchy granola is sure to be a family favorite. Top your favorite ice cream, add milk for a yummy breakfast treat, sprinkle on your yogurt, eat on its own or add to your trail mix for a perfect snacking option that can travel anywhere!

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats (we used certified gluten free)

• 2 cups chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds or pecans)

• 1/2 cup pepitas

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• 1/3 cup maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or pure vanilla extract

Optional

• Coconut flakes

• Chocolate chips

• Carob chips

• Dehydrated strawberries

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300 F.

2. Line a baking pan with parchment paper

3. In a large mixing bowl, add your dry ingredients (oats, nuts, cinnamon, pepitas).

4. In a small, microwave safe bowl, add your coconut oil and microwave until melted.

5. Pour your wet ingredients (coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla) over your dry ingredients and stir until all of your oats and nuts are covered entirely.

6. Pour your granola mixture onto your pan and spread it out into one, thin, even layer.

7. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to gain a bit of color. The granola will get crunchy as it cools.

8. Let granola cool entirely, before breaking it up into pieces.

9. For added crunch and fun, mix in coconut flakes, chocolate/carob and dried fruits.

10. Store in airtight container.

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