Spiced Walnut Granola

Not everything I make is pure butter, here's and example.

I love granola, such a healthy thing. Over yogurt and berries, or just to munch on, this recipe is perfect!

I didn't say there was no butter, just less...

There's the healthy! Be creative and add your own mix-ins. I tried sunflower and pumpkin seeds. Both worked very well.

Hmmm... how I do love you granola.

Do you see that in the center? I think that's health AND flavor.

Maple Walnut Granola
(Adapted from Simple Math Bakery)

3/4 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup chopped walnuts
6 cups old-fashioned oats
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/3 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (optional)

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and butter over medium heat, stirring, just until the butter melts.
3. In a large bowl, stir together the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the granola onto the baking sheet, making sure to spread it as evenly as possible. Bake the granola for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even toasting. Let cool.