Maple Almond Granola

Maple Almond Granola

5 c. rolled oats (not quick oats)
1 c. toasted wheat germ or flax seed
1 c. dried cranberries, divided (or other dried fruit, I used cherries)
1 cup sliced almonds
2/3 c. frozen 100% apple juice concentrate
1/2 c. pure maple syrup
1/3 c. Canola Oil
1/4 c. packed brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 t. salt


Whisk apple juice, maple syrup, oil and brown sugar in a medium sauce pan.  Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.  Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, salt and vanilla.

Mix oats, wheat germ, and almonds in a large bowl.  Stir in juice mixture and sauce to coat.  Spread evenly on 2 prepared baking sheets.

Bake for 15 min, at 325 stirring once or twice.  Reverse sheets top to bottom and continue baking another 15 min or until lightly browned.  Remove from oven, stir 1/2 cup of dried fruit into each baking sheet.  Store in airtight container.

(per 1/2 cup 220 cal, 7 g protein, 5 g. fiber, 37 carbs)