Sunday, September 8, 2013

No "Grain-o-la"

I posted a recipe called Sherry's Granola a few days ago and then was introduced to this granola. I had a neighbor bring it over to me as a treat and I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE TASTE! Unlike Sherry's granola, which tastes awesome in it's own way, this granola has an incredibly nutty flavor...probably because it's made from JUST raw nuts.
Ingredients:
1 cup raw cashews, chopped
1 cup raw walnuts, chopped (I used raw pecans)
2 cups almonds, sliced
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds
2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes (I used a finely shredded unsweetened coconut)
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/4 cup honey
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups dried fruit, chopped (I didn't use any, but it is still amazing with dried fruit in it, like apricots and raisins)
Preheat oven to 275 degrees.
Combine nuts and seeds in a large bowl.
Add shredded (or finely shredded) coconut to the bowl.
Combine well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vanilla and honey.

Add the spices.
Whisk together and pour over granola.
Stir really well, or until you see everything is well coated.
Spread mixture on a cookie sheet (with sides) and bake at 275 for 40-45 min.
Stir every 15-20 minutes throughout entire baking time.
Remove from oven and stir in dried fruit. (fruit is NOT pictured above)
Let cool completely and store in an airtight container!

Hope you enjoy it!
My boys love this granola with almond milk or regular whole milk.
The texture is very pleasing on my palette and extremely satisfying.
Recipe courtesy of Barbara, my sweet neighbor who was thoughtful enough to give us a big container of it!