OK, I know, another granola recipe. But as I have said before, we adore granola and eat it almost every morning. And I still love to experiment with different combinations of oils, sweeteners, spices, nuts, and dried fruit. But truthfully, none of my granola recipes are that different. But posting recipes keeps me off the streets and from driving Mr. C crazy. So, think of my posts as a way for me to keep thinking positive rather than dwell on all the negative things that are currently happening in our country. But enough about that!

Anyway, a couple of days ago I prepared a batch of granola using the formula you find below. And Mr. Cs comment yesterday morning, after just one bite, was “this granola is really good”. So, even though this recipe is like some of my other granola recipes, I felt compelled to post this one too. (I’m sure you can understand the logic behind my decision and can find it in your heart to forgive me.)

But, if you too are a granola lover, give this recipe a try. The flavor of cinnamon is just terrific with dried fruit. And no, you will not taste the olive oil. But the sweetness from the maple syrup comes through. Overall, when taken with fresh fruit and yogurt, this granola is a winner. But you must judge that for yourself. So, what are you waiting for? You already have your written invitation!

Peace and love to all.

½ c. extra virgin olive oil

½ c. pure maple syrup

1 tsp. kosher salt

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 tsp. vanilla

8 c. old-fashioned rolled oats

3 c. nuts (pecans, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts) 

1 c. unsweetened flaked coconut

1 c. dried chopped dates

1 c. dried blueberries or dried chopped cherries  

1 c. dried chopped strawberries or dried cranberries

1 c. freeze dried blueberries, opt.

Preheat oven to 300-degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the olive oil, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla together. Then stir in the oats. Spread mixture on a rimmed baking sheet or sheets in an even layer and bake for 25 minutes. (The layer will be fairly thick.) (Don’t wash the mixing bowl.)

After 25 minutes, add the nuts and coconut. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the oats are a light golden brown.

Remove from oven and transfer the granola back to the large bowl and add the dried dates, blueberries, and strawberries, tossing to combine.

Allow to cool completely before adding the freeze-dried blueberries. Store in an airtight container.

Great topped with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt.