Friday, December 2, 2011
Toasted Cranberry Walnut Granola Make Wonderful Hostess Gifts
It's that time of the year again; parties and weekends away, celebrations, and lots and lots of gifts. Hostess gifts from your kitchen can make some of the most appreciated and thoughtful gifts during the Season. Here is a recipe that my family loves and I've had several requests for recently. It combines flavors of the season with a nutritional boost. This will keep in an airtight container for up to a month. I love to portion half of the recipe into snack size bags to include in lunches or sprinkle over salads and yogurt. Enjoy.
Toasted Cranberry Walnut Granola
4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1/2 cups raw pumpkin seeds, hulled
1 cup sweetened, shredded coconut
1 1/4 cups walnuts
2 cups dried cranberries
1/2 cup raisins
3/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Coarse salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until entire mixture is moistened. Transfer to rimmed baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for about 45 minutes or until toasty brown. Stir every 10 - 15 minutes. Let cool and season with salt if desired.
Will keep in airtight container for up to a month.