Easy Basic Granola Recipe

This is my go to recipe for an easy granola. It always pleases. The great thing is that you can add whatever flavor combinations you like. Great with milk or eat as is.



INGREDIENTS

Basic Mixture

3 cups oats
3 tablespoons  brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup honey (see note)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additions
1/2 cup small-dice dried fruit
1/2 cup coarsely chopped raw or toasted nuts or seeds

1/2 cupToasted coconut flakes

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat the oven to 300°F and arrange a rack in the middle.
2. Place the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl and stir to combine; set aside. 
3. Place the honey, oil, and vanilla in a small bowl and stir to combine. Pour over the oat mixture and mix until the oats are thoroughly coated. 

Oven Method

1. Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then stir and continue baking until the granola is very light golden brown, about 5 to 15 minutes more. 
2. Place the baking sheet on a wire rack and cool the granola to room temperature, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. (Note: It will harden as it cools.) 
3. Add the fruit and nuts or seeds to the baking sheet and toss to combine. Store the granola in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Stovetop Method

1.  Place in a heavy bottom pot and cook on stovetop, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the granola is very light golden brown, about 15 minutes
2. Allow the granola to cool  to room temperature, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. (Note: It will harden as it cools.) 
3. Add the fruit and nuts or seeds to the baking sheet and toss to combine. Store the granola in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Note: An equal portion of jam or jelly may be substituted for the honey. An equal or lesser portion of brown sugar may be substituted for the honey for the stovetop version.