Cooking School Granola

Starting the day with a delicious and wholesome breakfast is a tradition at our cooking school. Our Cooking School Granola is the perfect breakfast companion, bringing people together around the table over coffee and a variety of tasty options. This versatile granola can be served with yogurt and fruits, enjoyed with milk, or even savored straight off the baking sheet. It’s a delightful and satisfying way to kickstart your day. Plus, it freezes exceptionally well, making it a convenient make-ahead option. This recipe yields about 6 cups or 8 generous servings, but feel free to double the ingredients for a larger batch to share with family and friends.

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 cup sliced almonds or a mixture of chopped walnuts and almonds
• ½ cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
• 2½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned style)
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup dried cherries
• ½ cup chopped dates or dried plums
• Other optional add-ins: Chopped dried pineapple, dried apricots, banana chips, additional nuts

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all the ingredients together in a mixing bowl, either by hand or with a spatula/spoon. Be careful not to crush or break up the mixture too much.
3. Spread the granola onto a baking sheet or into a baking pan.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes, then stir to bring the less browned granola to the top. Return to the oven and continue baking until the granola turns golden brown. Stir every 10 to 15 minutes. The total baking time should be about 40 to 50 minutes.
5. When the granola is golden brown, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a baking rack.
6. Once cool, stir and break up any large pieces. Add the dried fruits and any other optional add-ins of your choice.
7. Store the granola in an airtight container or freezer bag to keep it fresh and crunchy.

TIPS:

• Customize the Mix: This granola recipe offers a delicious combination of almonds, coconut, oats, and an assortment of dried fruits. However, feel free to get creative and add other optional ingredients such as dried pineapple, apricots, banana chips, or your favorite nuts to tailor the granola to your preferences.
• Gentle Mixing: When combining the ingredients, be gentle with the mixture to avoid crushing or breaking it up too much. This will help the granola form delightful clusters as it bakes, adding a delightful texture to your breakfast.
• Even Baking: Stirring the granola while it bakes ensures even browning and prevents any portion from burning. Keep a close eye on it and stir every 10 to 15 minutes to achieve a golden brown hue throughout.

VARIATIONS:

• Berry Blast: For a burst of fruity goodness, replace some or all of the dried fruits with an assortment of dried berries, such as blueberries, cranberries, and strawberries.
• Maple-Pecan Indulgence: Combine ¼ cup of maple syrup with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract before adding it to the granola mixture. Toss in ½ cup of chopped pecans for a rich and decadent treat.
• Savory Herb Infusion: For those who prefer a less sweet granola, omit the maple syrup and molasses. Instead, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This savory version pairs perfectly with yogurt and savory breakfast bowls.

Enjoy this delightful Cooking School Granola with your preferred breakfast accompaniments or as a wholesome snack throughout the day. The combination of flavors and textures will undoubtedly make it a breakfast favorite!