Wednesday, July 8

Homemade Granola

My family loves granola. As I have mentioned before though they are funny about foods having too much fat in it. So after reading the nutritional content on several boxes as well as gourmet markets that make it fresh they decided I should try to come up with a lower calorie and lower fat version.

This is my version for a low fat granola.

Low Fat Granola
(makes approx. 6 cups)

4 cups old fashioned oats
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup apple juice
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup raisins

Place oatmeal in a large bowl. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, apple juice, honey and cinnamon; bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over oats and stir to coat. Spread oat mixture onto a large sheet pan covered with heavy duty foil and place in oven. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occassionally. Cool completely before adding raisins. Store in an airtight container.

Feel free to add other ingredients: craisins or other dried fruits like blueberries and raspberries, nuts, etc. For added protein almonds or other nuts are perfect especially if taking the granola on hikes.

Granola is perfect with fresh berries and vanilla yogurt all placed in a parfait glass or whatever type container you have, as shown above

This is also great when traveling on the road for a healthy snack or added to your cereal.

It's so simple to make and makes a lot. When I make it I always double the recipe since it goes so fast in my home. I hope you enjoy it.








In the photos shown the first one is of the granola just out of the oven. Photo 2 is with raisins added after the granola has cooled. The last photo is with vanilla yogurt, fresh blueberries and granola added to the top in a cocktail glass.