Well, hello there! I can’t believe I haven’t posted since Tuesday. The frequency of posting around here has been abysmal but I’m flat out of excuses. Yes, I’m still busy with work and somehow still not entirely over the cold I’ve had for the past two weeks, but truth be told, I’ve just been trying to enjoy summer while it lasts and most days that doesn’t include sitting in front of the computer any more than I already have to at work. Today, though, I’m back with a bang! This is the first of two posts I’ll be sharing as Sweet Melissa Sundays and the Martha Stewart Cupcakes Club both happen to fall on the same day. First up is cherry almond granola for SMS.
Like most granola recipes, this one is highly adaptable so you can probably make it work with what you already have on hand. I did make a special trip out to try to find the rye flakes Melissa calls for, but after checking the bulk bins at Whole Foods as well as my local grocery stores and striking out, I wound up substituting more oats instead. Along with the oats, the recipe includes both sunflower and pumpkin seeds as well as whole natural almonds. Honey and maple syrup sweeten and bind the granola while a full array of fall spices (think cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, etc) make this granola super fragrant. I was grateful the temperatures around here were relatively mild this weekend as the granola bakes at a low temperature (250 F) for 1 1/2-2 hours, and I’m not sure I would have wanted the oven on for that long if temps had been up near 100 F. Finally, to finish the granola once it’s completely cooled, dried fruit is added. Melissa suggests currants, cherries and raisins, but I went with what was in my pantry – cranberries and raisins.
I don’t really eat granola much so this batch is earmarked for my stepfather, but I’ve made the recipe before and can vouch that it’s wonderful! I always consider it a plus when you can make something at home so easily instead of buying it and granola definitely falls in that category. Big thanks to Wendy of Pink Stripes for hosting this week! She’ll share the recipe on her site today, or you can find it on pages 34-35 of The Sweet Melissa Baking Book. Don’t forget to check back later today for Martha Stewart’s triple citrus cupcakes.
Gorgeous granola! and you have made the recipe before. I love your pictures too. I am constantly trying new granola recipes and this one is a winner for me.
I hope you are enjoying every ounce of sunshine you get to be in.
Your granola looks great Tracey! I passed on baking this week. But am already regretting it seeing the results of other bakers. Hope your stepfather enjoys it!
Yummo – love this combo of flavors. Great photos!!
🙂
ButterYum
i love your pictures! your granola looks delicious!
Nikki
http://www.makeandtakeblog.com
That looks delicious, Tracey! I just recently tried making my own granola bars. I was a bit surprised at how easy it was, and I love the fact that when you make your own stuff like this, you can add what you like. =)
Your granola looks lovely! I toyed with cranberries too- might do that next time!
Gorgeous pictures!
Looks great! I’m sure your stepfather will appreciate this gift very much! I’m giving some of this out, too. I think people really love it when you give them something handmade that they normally purchase at the store. Very thoughtful!
Your granola looks great! We are still renovating our kitchen so I wasn’t able to join in this week – 🙁
Ooooh yum. I love the whole almonds in it. This would be great on my homemade yogurt :o)
Looks fantastic! I wasn’t going to bake this week, but I am already regretting and am going to run to the store shortly so I can make this!
I love granola, so this looks delicious. Your top photo is really cool!
Your granola looks delicious. Love the pictures! I didn’t make this weeks and in reading everyone’s posts, I am wishing I had.
Your granola looks great! I really love all the spices and yummy cherries that went into it!
Your granola looks terrific! I’m sure your stepfather will appreciate it. I gave some to Josh’s parents and they loved it.
Sorry to hear your cold keeps lingering, but I’m glad you’re enjoying the end of the summer.
Delicious looking granola! I love making my own!
This looks perfect Tracey – pass the yogurt!
Looks like we both had the same idea with our picture taking 😉 Your granola looks fab!
And no one blames you for soaking up the rays before they turn into snow and cold winds. I still have at least 2 more months of ‘summer’ left before I can enjoy a cool breeze. 🙁