Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup raw nuts and/or seeds (almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional for healthy fats and fiber)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2–1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, etc.—to be added after baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:

   Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, coconut (if using), seeds, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

   In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine:

   Pour the wet ingredients over the dry, and stir very well with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.

5. Spread & Bake:

   Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing down lightly with your spatula.

   Bake for 20 minutes, then stir. Rotate the pan if your oven bakes unevenly. Continue baking for 10–15 more minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close watch near the end to prevent burning.

6. Cool:

   Remove from oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan (it will crisp up as it cools). Don’t stir while cooling if you like chunky clusters.

7. Add Dried Fruit:

   Once completely cooled, add in your dried fruit and mix.