homemade granola

over the years i have tried many different granola recipes, and have finally decided on this one as my favorite.  it comes from the recipe book titled the ski house cookbook.  this recipe can be varied based on personal taste and what ingredients are available in the pantry.

ingredients:  3 1/2 cups of whole grain old fashioned oats, 1/3 cup coconut, 1/3 cup nuts (sliced almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans), 1/3 cup sunflower seeds, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.  mix these ingredients in a bowl.  next, in a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. melt and pour over the dry ingredients.  spread the mixture on a sheet pan sprayed with canola oil.  bake for about 15-20 minutes at 350 degrees.  when the granola looks slightly brown, remove from the oven and cool. then, add 2/3 cup of either raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries, dried blueberries, or other dried fruit. store in a covered jar and enjoy for breakfast.  the granola can also be prepared without the nuts or dried fruit and served with them as toppings at the table, so each guest can personalize their granola for breakfast.