The cold spell had me inside and dreaming up some yummy recipes.  When I teach morning classes I like to offer something light to enjoy with coffee afterward.  This week I decided to try out a healthier version of granola.  I am a huge fan of granola but whenever I go to buy it I am turned off by the high calorie and sugar contents.  While it is super delicious I think it can be a dangerous way to start your day.  That’s why I decided to take the matter into my own hands.

The best part is you can switch things around to suit your needs or preferences.

Ingredients:

3 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup dried cherries

1/2 cup dried blueberries

1/2 cup almond slivers

1/4 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons coconut oil (or butter)

2-3 tablespoons agave nectar (or maple syrup)

1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)

Pumpkin pie spice

Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 300ºF. In a large bowl combine the oats, fruit, nuts, and sugar.  Sprinkle in a teaspoon or two of pumpkin pie spice and stir.  In a pan on the stove melt the coconut oil, vanilla and agave nectar.  Once melted pour into bowl with oats and stir until thoroughly mixed.  Spread over a large baking sheet.  Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.  Sprinkle with cinnamon.  Let cool and store in an airtight container.

You can add all sorts of other ingredients such as chia seeds, coconut flakes, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds as well as other fruits and nuts.  Top this over some vanilla yogurt, coconut yogurt, or even kefir.

Enjoy!