i made granola this last weekend. it is my second time making this and it's super good. penelope and i like to eat it with yogurt. i leave out the chocolate chips and craisins and just add whatever fresh or dried fruit that i feel like. this was originally gifted to us at christmas by tira and then ashlee posted the recipe and i had to get in on the action. i find that most store bought granola is expensive and i don't like very many brands. this makes quite a bit, if you can get the almonds for a good price it can be very inexpensive, and it's delicious!

tira's christmas granola


1/3 c. vegetable oil (i left this out completely and it's still totally delicious. i can't tell the diference.)
1/2 c. honey
1/2 c. brown sugar
1 T. vanilla
3/4 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. salt


combine the above ingredients, then add:


3 c. rolled oats
2 c. sliced almonds 

Stir to combine. Divide mixture between two greased cookie sheets. Bake at 300 for 15 minutes stirring occasionally. Add 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut to each sheet. Bake 15 minutes longer or until golden. Let cool completely on sheets. Place granola in large bowl. Stir in 1 cup craisins and 1 cup chocolate chips. Store in airtight containers, up to three weeks. (Everyday Food, December 2011)s