Maple Pecan Granola Recipe

When it comes to granola, making it at home has some benefits that might beat settle the store-bought versus homemade debate for you. That’s because you have control over the ingredients. By making your own granola, you get to decide what goes into it.

So, while store-bought may seem convenient, making granola gives you the opportunity to make it so that it aligns with your taste preferences and nutrition goals.

1. Less added sugar: Many store-bought granolas contain a lot of added sugars (think: white refined sugar, brown sugar syrup, tapioca syrup, high-fructose corn syrup), which can impact your health and weight loss goals if eaten in excess. By making your own granola, you have the power to sweeten it the way you like.
   

2. More fiber: DIY granola also gives you the ability to amp up the fiber content by using oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Some store-bought granolas skimp on fiber-rich ingredients due to cost. Not only does a high-fiber diet help maintain a healthy weight, but it also keeps your digestive system happy and may lower the risk of heart diseases.
   

3. More protein: When made at home, you can easily boost protein levels by adding ingredients like nuts, seeds, and almond butter. This is a great way to help your body repair cells and build new ones. Plus, adding more protein to your diet can help you build and maintain lean muscle mass, which is really helpful for losing weight. Store-bought granola might not always offer this level of protein.
   

4. No preservatives or additives: Commercial brands often use preservatives and additives to extend the shelf life of their products. Homemade granola is free from these unwanted extras.

   
   

So go ahead and give this recipe a try for a healthier spin on your granola. Add to your favourite milk or Greek yogurt.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED:

[10 Servings]

• 1/2 tsp    Pure vanilla extract 

• 1/4 tsp    Coarse sea salt

• 1/4 cup   Pecan pieces raw

• 1/4 cup   Raw blanched slivered

  almonds

• 1/4 cup   Sunflower seeds, raw no shell

• 2 cups   Old fashioned rolled oats 

• 1/2 cup   Raisins

• 2 tbsp    Unsweetened coconut flakes

• 1 tbsp     Sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp     Flaxseed Ground

• 1 tbsp     Agave or Sucanat

• 1/3 cup  100% pure maple syrup 

• 2 large  Egg white raw

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit

2. In a large bowl, whisk together wet ingredients until thoroughly combined. Stir in dry ingredients until mixed well

3. Spread mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake until dry and golden brown, about 60 to 70 minutes, stirring once

4. Remove from the oven, stir in coconut flakes and raisins, and set aside to cool completely.

Storage:

1. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks - if it lasts that long!

Enjoy... xo