This is one of the yummiest, most filling breakfasts I’ve had in a long time. Not only does it taste good, it’s super easy to make and there are countless ways you can adjust the ingredients to suit your mood or the season!
2 c. rolled oats
1/2 c. wheat germ
1/2 c. shredded coconut
3 heaping T. chia seeds
3 T. brown sugar
1 t. cinnamon
large pinch of kosher salt
1/4 c. vegetable or coconut oil
1/3 c. honey
1 1/2 t. vanilla
1 c. freeze dried fruit, nuts, seeds, or a combination of the three (optional)
Preheat oven to 300 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, wheat germ, coconut, chia seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. If using nuts, this would be a good time to add them.
In a separate bowl (or large measuring cup) mix the oil, honey, and vanilla. Once it’s combined (it will take a bit of mixing to keep it from separating), pour it over the oat and wheat germ mix and stir until the dry ingredients are thoroughly coated.
Turn out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from oven and, using a large spatula, mix the granola, turning it to allow it to bake evenly. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until your granola turns golden.
Stir in any freeze dried fruit you’re using. Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
*** A Few Thoughts ***
- If you don’t have the wheat germ or coconut on hand, you can replace them with more oats — or whatever grain you’d like.
- You can certainly add the freeze dried fruits before baking. I chose not to because I like them to feel as fresh as possible.
- Play with your spices and flavorings! Swap out the cinnamon for cardamom (but you might want to cut back the amount, as cardamom has a stronger flavor), or vanilla for lemon extract. The flavor possibilities are endless!
