Oil-Free GRANOLA

Ingredients:

    • 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
    • ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
    • ½ cup seeds (pumpkin or sunflower seeds)
    • 1 tsp ground ginger (or more to taste)
    • ¼ tsp sea salt
    • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
    • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ½ cup dried cherries

Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, seeds, ground ginger and salt.
    3. Combine wet ingredients in a small bowl.
    4. Add wet ingredients to the dry and make sure all is evenly coated.
    5. Spread on the baking sheet: Spread the mixture in an even layer on a parchment lined baking sheet.
    6. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
    7. Cool: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
    8. Add cherries: Once cooled, stir in dried cherries and for a burst of sweetness.
    9. Store your granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator—it makes for a perfect breakfast or snack!