Everyone should have a solid granola recipe in their repertoire. It’s one of the recipes that is easy, versatile and comes in handy almost all day long!
At breakfast, pour some into a bowl with milk. Toss a few handfuls into a small container for a mid-morning or lunchbox snack. Eat it “straight” after school for a healthier alternative to chips. And layer it with yogurt or sprinkle on ice cream for a delicious dessert!
This basic recipe can be amended based on whatever you have on-hand, or any dietary restrictions your family has. We’ve made this with all kinds of fruits and nuts, have added some chopped dark chocolate, and swapped the maple syrup for honey.
It’s all good!
Easy Granola:
- 3 cups oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (we used walnuts; pecans, pistachios are all good choices)
- 1/4 cup wheat germ (can omit if gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups dried fruit (we used cherries; cranberries, raisins, figs, apricots are all good choices – if using larger fruits chop into smaller pieces)
Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees; line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients except for fruit in a large bowl – spread in a single layer and bake for about 40 minutes, or till golden brown (stir occasionally for the most even color). Cool in pan on a wire rack and transfer to a serving bowl. Mix in the dried fruit. Store, covered, at room temperature for up to 2 weeks (or longer if frozen).
