Homemade Granola!

Hello, Monday, January 2! I couldn't think of a better way to start of 2012 with a healthy recipe and a staple in my household! I love having granola in my yogurt with fresh berries in the morning for breakfast and my Sean caught onto my addiction. I know there are plenty of great granolas out there, believe me I know I have bought them a lot but my mom sent Sean some homemade granola for Christmas. He loved it so much, I want to continue making homemade granola. You get to control the amount of sugar, and you can put your absolute favorite nuts and dried fruits as well. My Sean's personal favorites are almonds, cashews, craisins, peaches with vanilla flavoring.
So pick your favorite items, leave out those your tastebuds just don't agree with and know this granola you are eating is a bit healthier than the store-brands :-) First, gather together your ingredients. 5 cups old fashioned oats, 2 cups slivered oats (or 2 cups of whatever type of nuts you like, get them in pieces), 1/2 cup canola oil, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup hot water, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoon almond extract (can be omitted), 1 1/4 cup dried blueberries (or cranberries or whatever type of fruit you like).

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and nuts. 

In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, oil, hot water, and extracts.

 Drizzle the wet ingredients over the oats and nuts. 

Toss to make sure the oats are equally coated by the wet mixture. Spread out the oats between the two baking sheets, in an even layer and pop in the oven for 20 minutes. 

Check on your granola, stir it around on the sheet and bake it for another 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Take out the granola from the oven, add the dried fruit and cool thoroughly. Put granola in an air-tight container and enjoy with yogurt, fruit or with milk!