Aaron's Favorite Granola

bad picture, I know, but better than no picture at all?

In addition to granola bars, I've finally learned how to make homemade granola.  It is so easy and good, and I think it will be a regular happening at my house from now on.  I looked through tons of online recipes before giving it a go, and I have tried quite a few batches at this point.  Aaron has eaten them all, but I finally made some that he said was better than his favorite kind from the grocery store.  I'm recording the recipe here so I have it saved somewhere.  (I should write it on a card for my recipe box, too, huh?  Okay well, blog first!)

Even more so with granola bars, the ingredients are so flexible.  If you like almonds better, go for it.  Add wheat germ.  Or sunflower seeds.  You just have to have enough of the 'wet' stuff to lightly coat the 'dry' stuff.  That's the only guideline.  Also...All amounts are -ish, of course.  Many are not measured at all.  A few shakes of cinnamon, a dump of flax...  But I did try to pay attention this time.

Lastly, this version is definitely less sweet than most store-bought granola.  If you like it sweeter, you could add 1/4-1/2 cup brown sugar.  Mix it with the wet ingredients until dissolved.

Aaron's Granola

Heat oven to 375.

5 cups oatmeal
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/4 flax seed
1-2 cups pecans (second favorite:  walnuts)

Mix all of the above in a large bowl.

1/3 cup coconut oil
splash of vanilla
1/3 cup agave
1/3 cup honey

Add all the above to a small saucepan.  Heat over medium until oil is melted and everything is blended.

Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and pour on a large baking sheet.  Bake at 375 for 15 minutes, stirring several times and watching to make sure it doesn't overcook.  Let cool.

Once cool, Aaron likes to add dried blueberries or dried cherries.  I like raisins best, so we leave the dried fruit for the individual.

Do you have a favorite granola recipe?