Almond Cranberry Granola

I have been making variations of this granola for what seems like forever.  In the fall I liked making this pumpkin granola, and while pumpkin is available year round, I like making other types of granola to have on hand for breakfast or a quick snack.  One of my favorite ways to eat it is added to some yogurt.  Yum!

I usually like to add some almonds and dried cranberries, but sometimes I'll add other things if I have them on hand or if they are on sale at the grocery store-such as walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, raisins, and/ or dried apricots. Play around with different combinations and see what you like best-in this recipe pretty much all the ingredients are optional!

 Almond Cranberry Granola

1 cup whole almonds
1 cup unsalted or lightly salted roasted peanuts
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup plain oats
cooking spray
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.

Place the nuts, sunflower seeds and oats in a bowl and coat lightly with cooking spray (about 2-3 sprays).  Add 1 tablespoon honey and the cinnamon; stir to combine.  Spread mixture evenly  on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

Cool on baking sheet.  Once completely cooled, transfer to a bowl or storage container and add remaining tablespoon honey, dried fruit and chocolate chips.


Inspired by Health, 2004