Homemade gifts, part II

A breakfast favorite of mine is granola and yogurt. These days it is so difficult to find granola that is affordable (6 oz in the store could set you back $5), not packed with sugar, and something that will fill you up without having a cup full. I have found that you can make granola fairly easily at home. You can mix up a big batch and as long as you keep it in a store bought container you can enjoy for a nice long time.

This year I decided to make a batch of granola to include in my Christmas packages. With all of the hustle and bustle of Christmas outings and shopping, who would not enjoy a delicious, healthy pre-made breakfast pick me up.

Granola

(adapted from Barefoot Contessa Cookbook)

Ingredients:

3 Cups rolled oats

2 Cups Rye flakes

2 Cups shredded coconut

2 Cups sliced almonds

1 Cup additional seeds (pumpkin, sunflower or sesame)

3/4 C veggie oil

1/2 C maple syrup

1 C cashews

2 C dried fruit of your choice (cranberries are a favorite)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Combine oats, rye flakes, coconut, seeds, and liquid ingredients in bowl. Mix until all ingredients are coated with liquid.

3. Spread on a large cookie sheet in an even layer.

4. Bake for 45 minutes but stir mixture every 15 minutes to bake evenly.

5. Cool to room temperature. Toss in cashews and dried fruit.

6. Store in an air tight container.