Pumpkin Spice Granola

October 20, 2012 / No Comments

Homemade granola is so easy to make and is easily adaptable depending on the season or what is in your pantry. Couple this with my seasonal affinity for pumpkin and voila, this recipe is created!

The calorie and fat content is controlled by omitting oil altogether. We also decreased the sugar content and increased the spices to make up for the lack of sweetness. My family preferred it a little sweeter so there is a range for the added honey.

Mix-in options include: walnuts, raisins, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, pepitas/pumpkin seeds, dried apricot pieces, shredded coconut, pecans.

Why Healthy

Oats contain a good amount of protein, are high in fiber, and rich in thiamine, folate, B5, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and manganese.
Nuts are a good source of protein and are rich in phytosterols which help to lower cholesterol. Also rich in fiber and vitamin E.
Making your own granola allows you the ability to decrease the amount of fat used by replacing it with applesauce.
Dried cherries contain antixoidants and beneficial phytonutrients.
Pumpkin is loaded with beta-carotene.

Pumpkin Spice Granola

Making your own granola allows you the ability to decrease the amount of fat used by replacing it with applesauce.

Yield: Serves 8

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 35 mins

Ingredients:

5 Cups Rolled Oats
1/2 Cup Wheat Germ
1/4 Cup Flax Seeds
1-1/2 Teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
3/4 Teaspoon Ground Ginger
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg
1/4 Teaspoon Allspice
1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves
1/2 Cup Pumpkin Puree
1/4 Cup Applesauce
1/4 Cup Pure Maple Syrup
1-3 Tablespoons Honey
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
3/4 Cup Sliced Almonds
3/4 Cup Dried Cherries

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F., then line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
In a large bowl mix the oats, wheat germ, flax and spices together.
In a small bowl whisk the pumpkin, applesauce, maple syrup, honey and vanilla well until blended.
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until the oats are evenly coated. (Go ahead and use your hands to be sure everything is nicely coated.)
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the baking sheets, then bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven and gently toss all of the granola for even cooking/browning and add in the almonds and cherries.
Bake the granola for another 15-20 minutes or until the granola is golden in color and crispy.
Let the granola cool completely and as it cools it will continue to crisp up.