Basic Crunchy Granola

Recipe submitted by Megan B. and Gretchen Z.

2 cups chopped nuts or seed (e.g. walnuts, slivered almonds, sunflower seeds)
5 cups rolled oats
2 2/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup water
4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried fruit (e.g. raisins, cranberries) (optional)

Preheat over to 225 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with foil.  Spray with non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and nuts. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract and salt. Pour over the oatmeal mixture and mix well.

Spread the granola onto the baking sheet. Bake about 30 minutes.  Do not over bake! Granola is easy to burn! Remove from heat before the mixture turns brown.

When the mixture comes out of the oven, it is still very pliable. You may choose to add in dried fruit as a finishing touch at this time.  When granola has cooled completely, store in an airtight container.