Maple Pecan Granola with Dried Fruit

Ingredients and Weight:

• Granola Base:

  • Oats: 500g
  • Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup
  • Maple Syrup: 1/3 cup
  • Vegetable Oil: 1/4 cup (such as canola oil)
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

  • Nuts and Seeds:

  • Pecans: 1 cup, chopped

  • Almonds: 1/2 cup, chopped
  • Pumpkin Seeds: 1/4 cup
  • Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup

  • Dried Fruit:

  • Cranberries: 1/2 cup

  • Dried Apple Chips: 1/2 cup or other dried fruits of choice

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (excluding baking time)
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add chopped pecans, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Stir until well coated.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
7. Stir in the dried cranberries and dried apple chips or your choice of dried fruits.
8. Store in an airtight container. Serve as a healthy snack or with yogurt or milk.

Nutritional Information: (Per Serving - assuming 8 servings total) Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (depending on added fruits) Fat: 18g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Protein: 6g, Fiber: 5g (based on average values)

Dish Characteristics:

• Crispy and hearty granola mix with a sweet-savory flavor profile.
• Full of texture with the combination of oats, nuts, and seeds.
• Dried fruits add a chewiness and tartness to balance the mapley sweetness.
• A healthy and satisfying snack or breakfast option.

User Comments:

1. "Love the combination of maple and pecans, such a unique flavor!"
2. "Great as a morning snack with my coffee."
3. "A healthy option for kids and adults alike."
4. "The texture is perfect - not too hard, not too soft."
5. "Will definitely make this again!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Always check ingredient freshness before use, especially dried fruits which may vary in quality and moisture content.
• Baking time may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on it during baking to avoid burning.
• Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.