Cinnamon Raisin Granola, Gluten Free

Granola. I have loved granola for a long time but I hate the large amounts of sugar and bad fats often found in commercial granola. In addition, most gluten free versions did not tickle my taste buds. I set out to create a healthy and yummy granola that would fuel me throughout the morning.

Cinnamon Raisin Granola

INGREDIENTS
• 3 c gluten free rolled oats
• 1 c puffed brown rice cereal (organic)
• 1 c cereal flakes (I prefer buckwheat & hemp flakes)
• ½ c uncooked quinoa (any type/ color)
• ½ c chia seeds
• ½ c ground flaxseed
• ½ c raw almonds (sliced or whole)
• ½ c hemp seeds
• ½ c shredded coconut
• ½ c + raisins
• ¼ c cinnamon (yes, I mean cup and not teaspoon, cinnamon is a wonderful superfood in my book)
• 2 T pumpkin pie spice
• ½ c coconut oil (melted)
• ¼ c honey
• ¼ c maple syrup
• 1 T vanilla

Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Mix the dry ingredients together and the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry and mix until evenly distributed. Spread onto a large baking sheet, can even spread out on two baking sheets as this recipe makes A LOT :). Bake for 60-90 minutes depending on how crunchy you prefer your granola. Stir granola every 20 minutes while baking.

This is great as a cold cereal with coconut almond milk or even eating handfuls of it throughout the day as a healthy snack. Put a scoop in a baggie for a quick on the go breakfast. I also love layering berries, yogurt, and granola to make a delicious parfait.

This recipe is very forgiving. You can add or omit ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. Don't like raisins? Add in dried cranberries or blueberries. Don't like almonds? Simply omit them or add in your favorite nut. Adjust to your personal preference and health goals. Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter version. You can also omit the honey and have a vegan friendly option. All of the ingredients I used are gluten free.