Charise's Grand Granola

3 c. rolled oats

1/2 c. nuts (crushed pecans, almonds, or both)

1/4 c. unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 c. melted organic butter

1/4 c. pure maple syrup

1/8 c. oil (coconut oil or canola oil)

1/8 c. honey (raw is best)

1/8 or 1/4 c. crushed pumpkin seeds

2 T sesame seeds

1 T milk

1/4 or 1/2 c.  organic brown rice syrup or tapioca syrup (adjust to your taste)

1/2 c. organic raisins (sold at Costco)

1/2 c. dates (chopped)

Mix all the above ingredients (except the brown rice syrup, raisins and dates) well.  Bake at 300 degrees F. for 30-40 minutes...stir every 10-15 minutes so it cooks evenly and light golden brown.  After pulling it out of the oven, pour the brown rice syrup over the top and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands.  Let it cool completely, add the raisins and dates and store in a tuperware container. 

I try to use organic and local foods (Thompson Pecan Farm in Hurricane, Utah and they are THE BEST...not bitter at all!, Perry Honey Farms for RAW honey, Winder Dairy for milk, etc.) 

I have been experimenting making granola for a long time, and this is my finished product which all my family love!  It makes for great yougurt parfait, cold cereal in the morning, or a healthy snack... NO REFINED SUGARS which I love too! 

*from Charise