This granola is not exactly low in calories, but it’s so much better than store bought granola.  And you know what’s in it….

I like to eat a handful over Greek yogurt and fruit for breakfast or a snack, like in this picture.  The kids like it with milk for breakfast and John just grabs handfuls. I’ve even made it for teacher gifts.  Everybody loves it.

Homemade Granola

4 cups oats (not quick cooking)

2 T brown sugar

1/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (not pancake syrup)

everything else is to taste

vanilla

milled flax seed*

wheat germ

salt

cinnamon

almonds, walnuts, or other nuts

golden raisins, craisins, other dried fruits

Combine oats, nuts, brown sugar, flax seed, wheat germ, salt (don’t leave out the salt), and cinnamon. Mix canola oil and honey with vanilla and pour over dry ingredients.  Mix well and spread on cookie sheet.  Bake at 300 degrees for 20-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes or so until brown.  Let cool then add dried fruits.

*The flax and wheat germ are tasteless, but they bump up the vitamins, protein, and fiber.  I use about 1/2 cup of each per batch of granola.