Maple Almond Granola

For my blog's one year anniversary it seemed appropriate to share a recipe for its namesake. This is the only cereal my family consumes and was inspired from this recipe. Most granola recipes that I have come across, both homemade and from the store, are loaded with sugars- which is not the way I want my family to start their day. The one cup of maple syrup in this recipe may seem like a lot but when it is spread out between twenty half cup servings, it really isn't that bad... and the taste is delicious!

Maple Almond Granola By: Living Life Granola Printable recipe here.

4 cups rolled oats 1 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut 1 cup chopped almonds 2/3 cups pepitas (pumpkin seeds) 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp dried ginger 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted 1 cup maple syrup 2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp almond extract *Please use organic ingredients whenever possible. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a small saucepan melt the coconut oil over low heat. In a large mixing bowl add the oats, coconut, almonds, pepitas, salt and spices. Stir to mix. In a small mixing bowl add the maple syrup, coconut oil and extracts. Whisk to combine then add to the oat mixture, mixing well to coat. Divide the granola between two baking sheets that have at least a 1 inch rim. Place length-wise in the oven side-by-side on the middle rack. After 10 minutes, take the granola out and stir. Replace back in the oven. Repeat two more times for a total bake time of 30 minutes. Let cool and then store in an airtight container. Consume within one month. 1/2 cup is a serving size.

If your day must start with cereal (like some people in my house) then this protein and fiber filled granola is a great alternative to the sugar-filled atrocities on store shelves. You can add dried fruit after it comes out of the oven or even just add it to your bowl along with your almond milk. This granola is also yummy on top of yogurt parfaits and even just snacking on by the handful. 

It has been a fun year and I look forward to the time ahead. As always, thanks for stopping by and sharing my journey!