Toasted Almond Granola

By jenknoll

Nutritional Analysis: 1/2 cup granola (calculated without yogurt) equals 212 calories, 4 g fat (trace saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 88 mg sodium, 41 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 6 g protein.

Ingredients

• 3 cups old-fashioned oats
• 2 cups crisp rice cereal
• 1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
• 1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder
• 1/3 cup slivered almonds
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sunflower kernels
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons canola oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• Fat-free plain yogurt, optional

Preparation

Step 1

1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, cereal, wheat germ, milk powder, almonds, sugar, sunflower kernels and salt. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey and oil. Heat for 3-4 minutes over medium heat until honey is dissolved. Remove from the heat; stir in the extracts. Pour over the oat mixture; stir to coat.

2. Transfer to a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until crisp, stirring every 10 minutes. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack. Stir in dried fruits. Store in an airtight container. Serve with yogurt if desired. Yield: 8 cups.