The Hungry Skier: Healthy Homemade Granola

‘Tis the season and you’re scrambling for gifts… but what could be better than something homemade? Before you scoff at the idea of a macaroni necklace, think something a little more sophisticated and universally appreciated. Granola! Buy a mason jar or two or three, whip up this easy recipe, and dole out like you’re Saint Nick. The following recipe comes from The Daring Gourmet and leaves out  unwanted extras like refined sugar and vegetable oil.

Got a favorite holiday (or anytime) recipe of your own? Share it with alex@fasterskier.com.

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Recipe: Healthy Homemade Granola

Makes 6 cups

Ingredients

• 4 cups raw oats (not quick or instant)
• ¾ cup unsweetened dried flaked coconut
• ⅓ cup chopped or sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons sunflower seeds (unsalted)
• 1 tablespoon flax seeds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• ⅓ cup raw honey
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup assorted dried fruit, like apricots, raisins, cranberries, cherries, pineapple, dates, etc.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Place the oats in a large mixing bowl. Add the coconut flakes, nuts and seeds and stir to combine.
3. Place the honey and coconut oil in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil for one minute and remove from heat. Stir in almond extract if using.
4. Pour honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until coated.
5. Spread the granola out on a large baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning.
6. Let the granola cool completely then add the dried fruits and stir to combine.
7. Store in an airtight container. Keeps for about a week. Serve with milk and fresh berries if desired.