Homemade Blueberry & Maple Granola

Homemade granola is so much cheaper than that you purchase from the store.  When you make it from scratch, like anything, you can also control the ingredients that go into it.  This is a very basic recipe which can be adjusted depending on what type of granola you're hungry for.

I give a few variations at the bottom, but the choices are really endless.  One easy change is that if you don't want to use maple syrup, double up the honey.   The main thing to remember is always add dried fruit after the granola has baked, otherwise, you risk burning it.

3 c. rolled oats {not instant}
1 c. walnuts, chopped coarse
1/2 c. unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1/4 c. maple syrup
1/4 c. honey
1/2 - 3/4 c. dried blueberries

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.  Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet {like a large cookie sheet} with either parchment paper or a sil-pat mat to keep the mixture from sticking.

Mix the oats, walnuts and coconut together in a large bowl.  Heat the oil, maple syrup and honey in a small saucepan over medium-low, until warmed through.  Pour the oil mixture over the dry ingredients, and stir and toss with a rubber spatula to coat thoroughly.

Spread the mixture in the prepared baking sheet, keeping it as even as possible.  Bake for 15 - 25 minutes, or until the granola is lightly browned, stirring with a rubber spatula every 5 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven and add the blueberries, tossing to incorporate.  Let the pan cool to room temperature on a wire rack, about 45 minutes to an hour.  Loosen the dried granola with the spatula and transfer to an airtight container to store for up to 7 days.


Variations:
Cranberry-Pecan Granola :  Substitute 1c. chopped pecans for the walnuts and 3/4c. dried cranberries for the blueberries.

Trail Mix Granola : Add 1/2 c. slivered almonds, 1/4 c. unsalted sunflower seeds, and substitute 1c. raisins for the blueberries.  Increase the oil to 1/3c.

Walnut-Apple Granola : Substitute 1c. dried apple nuggets for the blueberries.