Granola is a staple in my house.

I make it lots of different ways, using this basic recipe as sort of a template. For instance, instead of applesauce you could use pumpkin puree or a mashed banana. Instead of maple syrup, you could use local honey.

You can adjust the seasonings to your taste, and add or omit any nuts and dried fruits you enjoy, too!

Ingredients:

3 cups whole oats

1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 cup ground flax seeds

1 cup sliced almonds

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 teaspoon sea salt

2 teaspoons cinnamon

chia seeds

pecan pieces

raisins

dehydrated apples, cut into bite sized pieces

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 250 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

Combine wet ingredients, salt, and cinnamon.

Add dry ingredients, mixing well.

Spread onto prepared pan.

Sprinkle with chia seeds and pecan pieces.

Bake approximately on hour, stirring after about 30 minutes. When granola is golden brown, remove from oven.

Sprinkle with raisins and apple pieces.

Cool completely and then store in air tight container.

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Author: Renee Dubeau

Image: Gail/Flickr

Editor: Katarina Tavčar