Store bought granolas can be packed full of sugar, or worse! High fructose corn syrup! I’ve been making my own for years and experimenting to make it better and better. Here is my favorite mix made with Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil for added benefits. This recipe makes about 26 servings (1/4 cup). I like to eat it with soy yogurt and fruit or with almond milk. But I am sure it would be great with cow’s milk or any yogurt as well! It’s low calorie and low fat! Enjoy for breakfast or as a snack! Share with us how you like to eat your granola.

4 cups oats
1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
1/4 cup chopped raw almonds
1/4 cup chopped raw walnuts
1/4 cup coconut flakes
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
1/2 cup bran flakes or wheat germ
1/2 TBSP ground cinnamon
1/2 cup Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
1/2 cup agave nectar or maple syrup
1/4 cup mollasses
1/4 cup dried cranberries, raisins or other dried fruit (Optional)

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350*F.
2. Mix all dry ingredients together.
3. In a small saucepan stir the Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, agave/maple syrup and mollasses until coconut oil is melted.
4. Add wet mixture to dry mixture and stir well until fully coated. I use my hands for best results – be careful when you first pour the wet ingredients because they will be hot!
5. Get a large baking sheet or I like to use a large roasting pan and add as much granola mix as you can and spread it out on the pan. Use two sheets if necessary.
6. Bake in the oven for 5 minutes. Take out, stir and place back in the oven for 5 more minutes.
7. Take out, add dried fruit (if using), stir and place back in the oven for 5 more minutes.
8. Take out of the oven. Should be slightly browned, but not hard yet. It will harden as it sits. Let sit to cool.
9. Store in an airtight container. Stores well for a few weeks – if it will last that long! I recommend these Acrylic Canisters with locking lids. I love these jars, they are great for granola, nuts or other items you want to keep fresh.

Per 1/4 cup serving nutritional facts:
Calories: 129 Carbs: 17 Fat: 7 Protein: 4

Tasty breakfast with diced fruit and yogurt.

Healthy snack with dried cranberries and almond milk.