Attention! Before I go any further, let’s get one thing clear. I know you’re going to say this recipe is so glorious, so fabulous, so ridiculously good that you’re gonna “wanna slap your momma or your grandma”, but please, no slapping or anything of the sort is allowed!
Okay.
I just needed to get that out.
I’ll proceed.
The Husband and I visited a Bed and Breakfast in the mountains along the Tennessee, Georgia border many years ago and was served this homemade granola for breakfast one morning. Needless to say because this granola was so stinkin’ good, I too had the irresistible urge to start slappin’ folks. But I didn’t. It would have embarrassed the Husband. Instead I asked for the recipe and the sweet, caretaker lady of the house was kind enough to share it with me. 🙂
Homemade Granola
The stars of the show.
**Updated to add that I now use Coconut Oil instead of vegetable oil.
Ingredients (Makes 10 cups-if you follow this recipe) 🙂
3/4 cup vegetable coconut oil
1/4 cup honey
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
8 cups rolled (not quick) oats
3/4 cup almonds (toasted)
1/2 sunflower seeds (toasted)
Keep in mind, most of the nuts listed here are optional choices. Change it up however you like and use your favorites! In this granola recipe I’m using almonds, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
I have also used pecans, walnuts and flaxseed. Toasted cocunut flakes is also an option.
First, toast the nuts. I’ve preheated the oven to 350 degrees and lined a baking sheet with aluminum foil for toasting. Watch this carefully as it only takes about 5 minutes to toast!
See how pretty!
[Tweet “Homemade Granola Recipe~perfect for holiday breakfast with family!”]
While this is in the oven, prepare your wet mixture.
Over low stovetop heat, mix together the oil, honey, sugar, vanilla and salt. Heat, stirring until the sugar completely melts. (The oil and sugar will remain separate).
In a separate large bowl, pour in 8 cups of oats.
Add the toasted nuts.
Then add your sugar mixture and stir.
It’s perfectly okay to sneak a quick taste here.
Or two.
Or several, actually.
Now spread this mixture onto a large foil-lined baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Toss with a spatula 2-3 times to prevent the edges from burning.
From light tan…..
…to golden brown……beautiful!
Allow to cool thoroughly before storing in an air tight container.
And then hide it from your family.
Okay, maybe not the last part.
I enjoy eating it right by itself or as cereal topped with fresh fruit. You may also serve with ice cream or yogurt, too.
Pure divine.
You’re really wanting to slap your grandma right now aren’t you?
Now, pardon me while I brew a cup of coffee to have with my granola.