Mock Granola - Easy

Granola doesn't have to be loaded with saturated fats and high in the wrong calories. This simple and healthy recipe alternative is every bit as satisfying, serves the same purpose and will have you and your kids getting the nutrients  your bodies need. Try it on fruit and yogurt for a homemade parfait. ​

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Ingredients:

• Whole grain oats (old fashioned oats)
• Dried cherries chopped
• Walnuts chopped in small to fine pieces
• Honey

These are the basic ingredients that we enjoy at home. Walnuts give a nutritional punch of ESSENTIAL omega-3 fatty acids that your body cannot make and promote heart and brain health. Walnuts have ALA (Alpha linolenic acid converts to EPA and DHA- the omega 3 fatty acids found in cold water fish). What a great way to get these essentials into your children's bodies. Add any ingredient you like. Start with 2-3 cups of oats to 1/2 c chopped cherries and 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts - then use your preference in ratio- there is no right or wrong.

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
Step 2:
Chop cherries and chop walnuts
Step 3:
In a bowl, stir together oats, cherries and walnuts 
Step 4:
Drizzle oat mixture with honey and stir until it touches most ingredients-start with 4 T honey and add  more to your preference
Step 5:
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray and spread mixture in one layer across the cookie sheet
Step 6:
Bake until golden brown and stirring occasionally

​Cool granola and serve. Sprinkle on fruit and yogurt. 
Once you determine your favorite ratio, make more in bulk and store in your freezer. 

Kathryn Scoblick
Health Inspires.