How to Make Homemade Granola

My first taste of granola was in the mid-70s. After buying granola in the health food store, I realized I could make granola at home cheaper. I found a recipe and started making large batches that could be put in freezer bags and stored in the freezer. It quickly became a family favorite. After experimenting with various recipes over the years, I have held onto the following recipe and just love its wholesome taste. My basic granola recipe can be used by itself or used with just few alterations to make granola bars. Below are recipes for both with additional ideas of how to enjoy granola.

 Essential Granola                    

4 cups oats

1/3 cup canola oil

1/4 cup honey

One or more of the following: raisins, dried fruit, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds 

Stir honey and oil together in a saucepan over low heat until warmed.

Place ingredients in a large bowl. Pour honey mixture over and mix to combine. Spread out in an even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 and stir every 5 minutes for 25-30 minutes. Let cool. Place in an airtight container or store in freezer.

Granola Bars

1 batch Essential Granola

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup Smart Balance Omega Peanut Butter (click here for a coupon)

1 cup of sunflower seeds

1 cup raisins

Combine salt, vanilla, brown sugar, honey and peanut butter in a saucepan over medium low heat stirring until dissolved.

Transfer Essential Granola to bowl and add sunflower seeds and raisins. Pour honey/peanut butter mixture on top and mix thoroughly. 

Line a 9x12 baking pan with parchment paper. Pat mixture with the back of a spatula or measuring cup to create a smooth even surface.

Bake at 325 for 25 minutes. Let cool for 2 hour hours and then cut into bars. Store in an airtight container.

Yogurt Parfaits

Just take your favorite yogurt and then I like Oiko's 0% FAT Organic Greek Yogurt layer with granola and fresh berries. Repeat a couple times until you have a few layers of everything. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkle with wheat germ or sliced almonds.