Cranberry-Almond Granola

Preparation

1. Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven; preheat to 325 degrees F. Coat 2 large baking sheets with sides with cooking spray.
2. Whisk apple juice concentrate, maple syrup, oil and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in cinnamon and salt.
3. Mix oats, wheat germ, almonds and sunflower seeds in a large bowl. Stir in the juice mixture; toss to coat. Spread the granola evenly on the prepared baking sheets.
4. Bake the granola for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. Reverse sheets top to bottom and back to front. Continue baking until lightly browned and aromatic, stirring frequently, about 15 minutes more.
5. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks; stir 1/2 cup dried cranberries into the granola on each sheet. Let cool completely.

Tips

To Make Ahead: Store granola in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Per serving: 263 calories; 11 g fat (1 g saturated fat, 6 g mono unsaturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 37 g carbohydrates; 6 g protein; 5 g fiber; 66 mg sodium; 223 mg potassium

Nutrition Bonus: Magnesium & Fiber (20% daily value).

Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 1/2 other carbohydrate, 1 1/2 fat

Contributed by: EatingWell.com

If you’ve never made your own granola, you’ll be amazed at the difference in freshness and flavor—and at how easy it is. Use this recipe as a starting point for your own creativity: substitute dried blueberries or chopped dried apricots for the cranberries, or walnuts or hazelnuts for the almonds.