Apple Cinnamon Granola

Ingredients:

1/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup honey

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

4-5 cups old-fashioned oats

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions:

Heat oil, honey, and applesauce to a low boil over med-high heat. Maintain low boil for 3 minutes, then remove from heat. Add salt and cinnamon. Meanwhile, pour oats and nuts into a large baking dish. Pour applesauce mixture evenly over oats/nuts. Allow 3-5 minutes to cool, then, using your hands, mix everything together until the oats are evenly coated. Bake for 10 minutes, then turn off oven and let granola sit for several hours or overnight.* Remove to storage bag or container. Enjoy a taste of fall!

*I sometimes skip that "leave in the oven" step for my Chocolate Almond Granola. Do NOT skip it with this recipe. That time is important for drying. The applesauce makes for a "damp" granola if you do not allow adequate drying time

(Note: This granola is NOT overly sweet. It is certainly sweet enough for me, but it is not as sweet as some granolas I've made. If you prefer a sweeter granola, you can add 1/4 cup of brown sugar or try using sweetened applesauce.)

This post is linked to:
Tasty Tuesday
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday