I don’t quite understand why February is set aside as National Cherry Month. Have you tried to purchase any fresh cherries lately? It’s pretty much impossible. Fortunately, there are plenty of dried, canned and frozen ones available which were what I used in preparation for the All About the Cherries recipe segment which I was supposed to do this week on THV11. I say supposed to since this “slight little” winter blast we experienced forced me to cancel. This granola is based upon a favorite of mine which I just varied with the cherries and flavorings. And even if I do say so myself, it’s a real winner.
I love it to top off my morning Greek yogurt, but it’s a very tasty snack as well. In fact, I sent bags of it to work with my husband, and I don’t think any of it actually go home with any of the folks he works with. Typically, an entire cereal bowl of granola is too much for me but it would certainly work that way as well.
Now what am I gonna’ do with the double batch of Trio of Cherries Jubilee? Or the Cherry Almond Scones? Oh, and that Dark Cherry Bundt cake in the freezer?
- 4 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cups coarsely chopped whole almonds
- 2 cups dried cherries, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or allspice
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Toss the oats, coconut, almonds, and cherries together in a large bowl.
- Pour the coconut oil and honey or maple syrup over the oat mixture. Add the vanilla and cinnamon and stir until all the oats and nuts are coated with the liquids.
- Pour onto a sheet pan. Bake, stirring occasionally with a spatula, until the mixture turns a nice, golden brown, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Watch carefully during the final few moments of cooking or it will burn quickly.
- Remove the granola from the oven and allow to cool.
- Store the cooled granola in zipper plastic bags or another airtight container.
- Makes approximately 10 cups.
This is such a tasty granola; I sure hope you will check it out.
