One of my favorite go-to healthy options is granola. It is full of fiber, protein, healthy carbs and it’s deliciously filling. A few years ago I was in search of an alternative to store bought granola (which is usually full of preservatives and sugar), and came across this gem of a recipe.
Reasons Why I Love This Recipe:
- It makes a lot. 9 cups to be exact. Usually enough to last me about two weeks. Most granola recipes are a tad labor intensive on the prep end, but this one is worth the tedious almond chopping…
- It’s full of protein. I’m always on the hunt for meatless protein sources for post-workout meals and I think this is my favorite. It is the perfect combination of quick carbs and protein (containing about 25-35 grams in one bowl). With that being said, it also makes for a filling breakfast.
- It’s easy. Who doesn’t like easy? Total time, with prep included, is about 40 minutes on a high end. Once it’s cool enough to store, I usually divide portions up into containers for grab-and-go throughout the week. It’s also ideal for things like road tripping or hiking because it’s just as yummy dry as it is with milk or yogurt.
Ingredients:
4C Rolled Oats (NOT quick cooking)
3/4C Raw Pumpkin Seeds
3/4C Raw Unsalted Sunflower Seeds
1C Coarsely Chopped Almonds
1/2C What Germ
1/2C Powdered Nonfat Dry Milk
1TBS Ground Cinnamon
2TSP Ground Nutmeg
1/4TSP Ground Cloves
2TSP Pure Vanilla Extract
3/4C Safflower or Canola Oil (I prefer canola)
1/2C Maple Syrup (I usually buy organic, 100% maple syrup)
1/2C Honey (I usually buy organic, raw honey)
1/2C Chopped Dried Cherries
1/2C Chopped Dried Figs
1C Raisins
*** All of the dried fruit can be interchanged with whichever fruit you like.
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, combine together the oats, seeds, almonds, wheat germ, dry milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla. Set aside.
In a small saucepan, over medium heat, mix together oil, syrup and honey. Stir until warmed.
Pour warmed mixture over dry mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are moisturized.
Spread onto a 9×13 cookie sheet and bake for about 25 minutes. Edges will turn brown.
Remove from oven, cool to room temperature.
Loosen mixture from pan in chunks, put in a mixing bowl with dried fruit and mix thoroughly.
Store in a sealed container or bag.
Combine with milk, yogurt or enjoy by itself!
Oh I absolutely love granola! This looks so easy and delicious. Beautiful pictures. Followed your lovely blog and cant wait for more recipes 🙂
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