Gingerbread Granola

Granola has always been a favourite of mine! I remember always buying it in boxes and then when I got smart at reading not only the nutrition information but the ingredients list too, I decided to start experimenting with my own! One of my first kitchen disasters was actually the best-mistake-I-ever-made and turned out to be my go-to granola recipe! That is a no-bake granola, so I figured it was time for me to develop a crunchier, baked granola recipe! This one is perfect for this time of year! Whether you have a big batch ready for you on your counter OR make and gift it to your loved ones this Holiday season, check this recipe out today! Oh, and grab an extra pair of little hands to help you along too!

Ingredients:

• 4 Cups Whole rolled oats
• 1 Cup Pecans
• ½ Cup Pumpkin Seeds
• 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
• ½ tsp Ginger
• ½ tsp Ground Cloves
• Pinch of salt
• ½ Cup Coconut or other Vegetable Oil
• ¼ Cup Dark Molasses
• ¼ Cup Honey
• 2 tsp Vanilla
• ½ Cup Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
• ¾ Cups Chopped dried fruit (ie. cherries, apricots, candied ginger)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.  Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl combine the oats, pecans, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves and salt. Mix to combine all ingredients
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the coconut oil. Add the molasses, honey and vanilla and melt and stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well to evenly coat all ingredients.
5. Pour contents onto a large baking sheet, spreading out evenly to allow for even cooking.
6. Bake for 20 minutes.
7. Take pan out of the oven and add the coconut. Stir to mix and combine all ingredients, ensuring you spread evenly on the baking sheet again.
8. Cook for another 8 minutes. (*keep an eye on your oven to ensure the granola doesn’t burn depending on your oven. You may need less time here).
9. Remove from the oven and add the dried fruit. Allow to cool completely before breaking apart into pieces and chunks!
10. Place in an air tight container and enjoy with yogurt, ice cream, or simply by the handful! Portion into small mason jars and gift to that special person this holiday season too! Keep in the refrigerator to extend freshness.