Homemade Granola

It's a beautiful spring day today! It makes me want to go hiking! Here is a great recipe for Homemade Granola that will provide good nutritious energy throughout your adventures! From my Better Homes and Gardens cookbook.

2 cups regular rolled oats
1 cup coarsely chopped slivered or sliced almonds, chopped walnuts or chopped peanuts
1/2 cup coconut (optional)
1/2 cup shelled sunflower seeds
1/4 cup toasted wheat germ
1/2 cup honey or maple-flavored syrup
2 TBSP. cooking oil

In large bowl combine the oats, nuts, coconut, sunflower seeds and wheat germ. Stir together the honey and cooking oil. Stir into oat mixture. Spread evenly in a greased baking pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 30-35 minutes, or until lightly browned, stirring after 20 minutes.

Spread on large piece of foil to cool. Break into clumps. Store in airtight container for up to one week, or store in freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months.

VARIATIONS: Stir in dried fruit of your choice (raisins, dates, apricots, cranberries, cherries, banana slices) immediately after removing from oven. Add M&M's or chocolate chips to final cooled batch.