I have made this granola for years, often adjusting it to the tastes of my kids and what we have in the pantry.

It’s what I made when I was laboring at home with Violet 7 years ago. When my contractions were coming faster than I could manage to stir the granola on a 10 minute cycle, I knew it was time to start thinking about having a baby!

I’ve hoarded this recipe for years, making it as gifts for teachers, for housewarmings and to welcome new neighbors. I’m done being protective of it. It’s just granola and everyone should have real granola. Homemade is easy, so much better than store-bought, and less expensive too.

Amanda’s (Sorta Famous) Granola

4 C. Oats ( You can choose Old Fashioned or Quick)

1  to 1 1/2 C. Nuts ( Sliced Almonds and pecans are my kids’ choice)

1/2 C. light brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 C.  ground flaxseed

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 C. vegetable oil

1/4 C. raw honey

1 tsp vanilla

optional- dried fruits, unsweetened coconut

Heat oven to 300 degrees F. Use a large bow to mix the oats, nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, flaxseed, and salt. Use a medium saucepan to heat the oil and the honey (Measure the oil first, the honey slides out easier!) Warm over medium heat, add in vanilla and whisk. Use caution, pour the liquid over the oats. Stir until mixed through. We use our hands to make sure it’s all covered. Spread into a 15×10 pan. I like to use my stoneware baking pan.  Bake for 35-40 min, stirring every 10 minutes. If you are adding in the coconut, I add that the last 10 minutes of baking to toast it, but not over-cook it.

Transfer to a rack to cool. Stir in dried fruit if you choose. Store in glass lidded containers. You can freeze it as well, but it never lasts more than 3 days in our home. We love it with greek yogurt.

Will you let me know if you make it, and what you think?