Brown Sugar Granola

When I was a child, my mom used to make delicious granola.  I remember it having honey and oats, but beyond that my memory is blank.  She used to put in other add-ins, of course, but I when I wanted to make it, I just couldn't remember how.  My mom swears it's in the cookbook she put together for me, but I could not find it anywhere.

So, what is a girl to do when she wants granola? Go to the store and buy it?  No way!   I searched the Internet for different recipes, and for years I couldn't find one that I loved.  All the ones using honey somehow fell short in the taste category.

Then, one day when I was just browsing, I fell upon this recipe for Raw Brown Sugar Granola.  I made it not too long after and it was wonderful.   My husband who is not typically a fan of granola, loves it.  When making it for the family, I skip all the add-ins and just do the oats.  I like it with pumpkin seeds and raisins, personally, but I can just add those to my serving.

For the raw brown sugar I've used sucanat, sugar in the raw, or plain old brown sugar.  They each work equally as well.  One thing I would note is that you should not use quick oats.  I have done this and the granola doesn't come out as good.  Also, make sure you don't over cook it.


Raw Brown Sugar Granola

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter (original recipe called for margarine)
1 cup raw brown sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt (I used Himalayan or sea salt)
4 cups old fashioned oats
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
1/2 cup nuts or seeds (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

In a large 4 quart saucepan, melt the butter, sugar and water together.  Stir it well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.  Add salt, oats, and cinnamon to the big pot.  Remove pot from stove and stir.  Make sure to coat mixture evenly.

Put granola onto a cookie sheet (9 X 13 with sides) and spread evenly.  Bake for 10 minutes.  It should be golden brown, but be sure not to over bake.  Add dried fruit, nuts or seeds if desired.  When it is cooled, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.    Serve as you would serve cereal with milk, or use as a yogurt topping.  Can also be enjoyed straight from the container.  Enjoy!

Thank you Hillbilly Housewife!