We finally baptized our boys over the weekend, which explains my absence yesterday. It was go, go, go from Friday morning through until Sunday night. We need a weekend from the weekend. Both my kiddos were sick last week, and then the poor guys had no break this weekend. We did lots of errand running, sooo much cooking, we had family come in from out of state Saturday night, then a full house again on Sunday. It was a really nice little ceremony, but phew, we.are.exhausted. Yesterday I ended up at the Doctors for one of my boys, its never ending. I haven’t had a chance to cook (with the exception of for the baptism) in well over a week. It feels weird not being in the kitchen every day!
While it has been a nice break just playing with my kiddos all day long, I am ready to get to cooking! I need a little inspiration though, because apparently taking time off, fogged my brain. 😛 So while I am still currently trying to drop those baby pounds, Im trying to find healthier snacking options. Seriously, I’m such a snacker..I hardly ever eat a full meal during meal times and instead snack throughout the day..its not always good..snack calories add up! However, I made this almond granola and am completely addicted.
While this granola is still sweetened with maple syrup and honey, there is no additional sugar, which I see a lot of granola recipes add. (Honestly, I don’t think it needs it, but if you like things on the sweeter side, add a small amount!) I’m trying to stay as sugar free as possible. We love this stuff! Its perfect in yogurt with some berries, or if you’re like me, I eat it by the handfuls! Its quick and easy, crunchy, and flavorful..it has some of my favorite components! And it is so darn quick to whip up!
Wonderfully crunchy, simple, fabulous granola, lightly sweetened with an almond flavor! Perfect with yogurt and berries or just alone as a snack!
Ingredients
- 4 cups old fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
- In a large bowl whisk together the maple syrup, honey, almond extract, and cinnamon.
- Pour in the oats and almonds.
- Toss until fully coated.
- Spread evenly on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, cool for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a large bowl.