Simple Granola

Growing up I used to hate eating homemade bread and granola. I wanted soft, white bread and frosted flakes. Now I'm older and wiser and appreciate the nutritional value of things made from scratch at home. Granola is one of the simplest things to make at home, considering how expensive some of the more popular brands are. Often the less-expensive versions are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup. If you make it at home you can control what goes into it and save a bit of money too.

As far as granola recipes go, there are countless versions with all kinds of interesting ingredients. This version, however is simple--easily prepared with pantry staples like oats, raisins and almonds--and quick as a snap to make. Once you have the basic recipe you can vary the ingredients and spices to your taste.

Simple Granola

1/2 c. coconut oil (or butter)

1/2 c. maple syrup (or honey)

2 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. ginger

1/4 tsp. salt

5-6 cups organic rolled oats

almonds

raisins

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt coconut oil. Add in maple syrup and spices until well blended.

2. In a large mixing bowl measure out oats. Add 1-2 cups of almonds as desired.

3. Pour liquid mixture over oats and almonds and stir until the dry mixture is completely coated.