Honey Almond Granola with Cranberries

It's raaaaining, it's pooouuuuring, and my kitchen is full of scrumptious smells! You've probably heard of Christmas in July, but today we're having October in July! It's been raining steadily since I woke up, I'm wearing comfy socks and the back door is slightly open so I can hear the rain. It's not even 60 degrees! I'm a happy girl!  I wonder what all this rain this year means for our winter... will it be milder, or will the precipitation continue and we'll get loads of snow?? I must admit, I'm hoping for the latter. The Geologist is actually reporting mixed snow flurries with the rain up in his skyscraper office. Craziness! Perfect day to be snuggled up at home, baking granola and watching waaaay too much TV. I'm thinking grilled cheese and tomato soup for lunch. Mmmm... Happy October-In-July, everyone!

Honey Almond Granola with Cranberries
Printable Recipe

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1 Tb vanilla
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 Tb cinnamon
6 cups old-fashioned oats
3 cups rice krispies cereal
3 cups sliced almonds
2-3 cups dried cranberries

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

In a large bowl, stir together oats, cereal, nuts, and cinnamon, until combined and cinnamon is evenly distributed.

Combine butter, sugar, honey, salt, and vanilla in a large pot/saucepan. Stir together on medium heat until sugar is dissolved, and the mixture just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in oat and cereal mix until well coated. Gently spread the mixture in an even layer on the baking sheets. Try not to press it down.

Bake for 20-25 minutes; remove from the oven and give it a good stir halfway through baking. (It will still be soft, but will harden as it cools)

Let the granola completely cool in the pans on wire racks, before breaking/crumbling into small bits and pieces. Stir in cranberries if desired, and store in an airtight container.

Mmm, homemade granola! Crisp, crunchy, honey-sweet and nutty. I love the almonds, but this recipe is very adaptable, you could use any favorite nut, any dried fruit, have fun with it! I like the tang of the cranberries, but all of my boys prefer it plain. It's scrumptious either way!

Simple, quick, and delicious. Healthy? Well, maybe not officially healthy. But sprinkle some on your Greek yogurt with some fresh berries, and I'm sure not many people would call that junk food! I know what I'm having for breakfast tomorrow. :) (Well, unless it's still raining. In that case I'm having oatmeal!)

Shared at Party in Your PJ's and Foodie Friday