Pan-toasted Pepita Granola

Great

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Place a large pan over medium heat and add the oats. Stir them around while they get a bit fragrant. Add the walnuts and pepitas, stirring until all the ingredients get slightly toasted, 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the size of your pan. Reduce the heat to low and add the chia seeds, flaxseed meal, and cinnamon.

Step 2

Stir for another minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3

Here is the transforming step add the maple syrup and continue to stir, coating all the ingredients. The syrup will sizzle a bit, which scared us the first time (and the second time).

Step 4

Remove from the heat. Once it has cooled, add the raisins (if using). Store any extra granola in an airtight container within arm's reach, as this will be a favorite!

Step 5

VARIATIONS:

Step 6

Once the granola has cooled, try adding hazelnuts (lightly crushed with the bottom of a jar), dried cherries, cashew pieces, nondairy chocolate chips, or dried cranberries.

Step 7

Or stir ½ teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract into the maple syrup before you add it to the pan