Cinnamon Nutty Granola ( GF, V,)

I love making granola.  This is something that I can grab on-the-go or add to pretty much anything to add a little crunch and some added protein.  I also love to eat it in a small bowl with some milk to get my cereal fix!  Its great to have on hand anytime to be able grab-and-go.

This recipe is super simple and you can really make it what you want with whatever ingredients you have on hand at the moment.  If you keep the base which is the oats and the honey as the binder you can pretty much throw in anything else you want and it turns out great.  I do love a touch of sea salt and cinnamon as well to keep the sweet/savory flavor.  However if you want to go all out savory you can add any spice you have in your cabinet.  If you want it sweeter sometimes I really love to add mini chocolate chips to change it up if I'm craving chocolate. 

See the recipe below!  I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
• 1/2 cup honey (or your favorite sweetener)
• 2 cups whole grain gluten free oats
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds *optional I added for more protein

Directions:

1.) Melt coconut oil to liquid state (if it is not already) and add to bowl with honey, oats, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sea salt, cinnamon, chia and hemp seeds.  Mix well

2.) Grease cookie sheet, or use parchment paper.  Both work! Add mixture above to spread evenly throughout pan.  

3.) Bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until golden brown.  DO NOT OVERCOOK.  You want a perfectly balanced crunch and the time in the oven is key!  Depending in your oven you may want to add a couple minutes if it isn't quite the consistency you are looking for.

4.) Remove from oven and spread out parchment paper and evenly distribute the mixture on to the paper.  Let cool for about 10 minutes.  Store in air tight container.  I love to use glass jars with lids to preserve the freshness!