Homemade Granola

MMMMMM GRANOLA! I love making a great batch of some tasty granola when I have company coming over, for homemade gifts, or if I have extra nuts in the pantry. My favorite and most simple version is the kind I made this past weekend. Not only is it easier and healthier than store bought, but it also makes my house smell amazing--not to mention my whole family loves it too. I throw in gluten free oats, lots of nuts and lightly sweeten with a bit of maple syrup and cinnamon, that’s it! There is no shortage of healthy fats, protein and fiber here, which means long lasting energy!Most store bought granola contains refined sugars to give it that yummy taste, color and texture. In this recipe I use just ⅓ cup of maple syrup to naturally sweeten the oats. Compared to sugar, it’s just as sweet but less processed and contains healthful antioxidants and minerals (such as Zinc and Calcium). So next time you go to snack on some granola or want to throw a handful into your yogurt, whip up this ‘way better than store bought’ recipe and you’ll start wondering why you’ve never made granola before.  Homemade Granola(makes 9, ½ cup servings) Ingredients:3 cups rolled oats½ cup chopped raw, unsalted walnuts½ cup chopped unsalted almonds½ cup chopped unsalted pecans½ cup raisins⅓ cup maple syrup½ teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 300F and line a large baking sheet with foil.
2. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients together.
3. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet and place in the oven.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from the oven and transfer the baking sheet to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before storing granola in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

 Enjoy this granola on yogurt, on top of smoothies or on its own, especially when you are craving something crunchy, sweet and salty (heaven!).