Suzy, Jackie and I are granola lovers. With a good quality granola averaging at least $4.99 a pound (Bare Naked brand) it’s just too costly to buy the amount needed to feed our families. So, we regularly make it ourselves. The other day, Suzy and I set out to make granola together with what we already had in our combined pantries. We didn’t have to buy a single item. In just two hours, we were able to make 8 quarts of Cherry Almond granola, our new favorite. To buy the equivalent at a store, we estimate that it would have cost us more than $100.00. By making the granola together, we were able to make a large quantity of a better tasting product for less money. And, just as important, we had a fun time together catching up. We even managed to take a moment to sit down and enjoy a Yogurt, Granola and Fruit Parfait.
Here’s the recipe:
Cherry Almond Granola
Makes 5 Cups
4 cups rolled oats
½ cup wheat germ
½ cup canola oil
1/2 cup honey
½ cup sweetened coconut (optional)
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1 cup dried cherries
Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, wheat germ, oil, honey, coconut, almond and vanilla extract and almonds. Spread mixture evenly on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Place in top half of oven and bake until golden, approximately 22-25 minutes. Cool and break the granola apart. Add in the cherries. Store in an airtight container for several months.
Andy says
A granola bar and fruit is a great way to start off the day. A glass of milk is also a great complement to a healthy breakfast. By granola bar, this does not include chocolate covered bars or anything very sugary. To lose weight the best thing to do is cut out calories in drinks, such as soda or juice. If you really enjoy a class of juice in the morning.