Kitchen Confidential: Lauren's Favorite Granola

 My sister is a fabulous cook and can turn a few basic ingredients into something delicious! I am always amazed at the incredibly delightful combinations she whips up, and this recipe was just too good not to share. Granola is a great breakfast option when you're on the go, or want to add it to your favorite yogurt and fruit parfait. The blend of spices in this recipe fills the house with a delicious aroma as it bakes, and compliments any morning routine. Trust me, one taste of this, and you'll want to make enough for the week! Lauren suggests serving the granola over plain greek yogurt with fresh seasonal berries and a generous drizzle of honey on top. Enjoy!

Lauren's Favorite Granola

1 cup oats
1-2 tablespoons coconut oil
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
pinch of sea salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup chopped cashews
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/3 cup dried coconut chips
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon flax meal/ground flaxseed
1 handful of unsweetened shredded coconut

Pre-heat oven to 300 degrees. Mix all ingredients together, and add any additional quantities of spices and ingredients to taste.
Line 1 baking sheet with aluminum foil, spread mixture into a thin layer on baking sheet, and bake for 25 minutes at 300 degrees or until lightly golden.

*Optional Tip: Take out baking sheet halfway through the baking time, stir granola mixture, and place back in oven for remainder of baking time

(Editor's Note: Ingredient measurements are flexible, and often adjusted to personal preferences.)