Granola

Some people consider granola a food that only "tree huggers" eat or campers eat while hiking. But, no, no, that is very wrong! Granola is one of those amazing, so-good-for-you, heart healthy foods that people really shouldn't go without. In fact, it is my husband's favorite breakfast "cereal." And you just can't beat it when you can make it at home. It is suprisingly easy to make, it makes a lot, and it tastes so good!! You've got to try this!

Here's what you'll need:

7 C. oatmeal

1 C. wheat bran

1 C. wheat germ

1 C. sliced or slivered almonds

1 C. powdered milk (dry)

1 C. flour

2 C. coconut

1 C. sunflower seeds

1 T. cinnamon

1 t. salt

1/2 C. brown sugar

3/4 C. water

1 C. oil

1/2 C. honey

1/4 C. molasses

2 t. vanilla

Mix together first 10 ingredients (everything in the first list) in a BIG bowl. Then, in a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, oil, honey, and molasses and heat until sugar dissolves, but DON'T boil! Take the pan off the heat and add the vanilla. Pour over the oatmeal mixture and mix well until everything is evenly coated. Spread in a large, rimmed cookie sheet (or jelly roll pan) and bake at 250 degrees for 1 hour. Carefully stir the granola, and bake another hour. Bake until lightly brown and aromatic. Let cool. Store in an airtight container, once completely cooled, to keep fresh. Can serve with raisins.

Yum! I always make this when my mom comes to visit!!