Easy Homemade Granola

I believe that in cooking, it is important to be adaptable when the recipe does not necessarily go as planned. This recipe was originally supposed to be granola breakfast bars; however, when they did not hold together firm enough, it was time to adapt. What does a crumbly granola bar become? Well, granola of course. This is a great granola because of its protein and fiber contents. I love it as a quick afternoon snack or in my yogurt for breakfast. With it being this easy, why would you want to buy it from the store? At least this way, you know what is going into what you eat. Plus, you can adapt it to your taste. Feel free to add additional dried fruits, honey instead of peanut butter, and even some chocolate! This particular recipe tastes like a peanut butter oatmeal cookie.....I am not going to complain!!!!

Ingredients:
2 Cups Quick Cook Oats
4 Tablespoons Butter
1/2 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter
1 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon, divided
1 teaspoon Vanilla
3/4 Cup Honey Roasted Peanuts
1/2 Cup Raisins
1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar

1. Place the oats on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes in a 350 degree oven. While the oats toast, prepare the wet ingredients.
2. Melt the butter in a microwave safe bowl for 45 seconds-1 minute. Add the peanut butter, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon vanilla to the HOT melted butter and stir until everything is melted and well blended.
3. In a food processor, pulse the peanuts and raisins on high until finely chopped. You can be the judge of how big you want the pieces, but I went for a fine but coarse blend.
4. Combine the oats, wet ingredients, and peanuts/raisins in a large mixing bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly coat the oats.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees.
6. Prepare a 9x9 glass baking dish with non-stick canola spray.
7. Pour the oats mixture in the prepared baking dish. Use your fingers to press the mixture down and create an even layer. I have found that I need to either dampen my fingers with water or non-stick spray.
8. Bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the counter for 1 hour.
10. Using a fork, break the granola apart into chunks.
11. Spread on a baking sheet and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon and brown sugar.
12. Bake at 300 degrees for 15 minutes. Watch the oven closely after 10 minutes to prevent the brown sugar from burning.
13. Allow to cool completely and then place an airtight container or sandwich bags.

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