Recipe: Crunchy Granola

Crunchy Granola

1 1/2 C. brown sugar
1/2 C. water
4 t. vanilla extract
1 t. salt
8 C. rolled oats
2 C. chopped pecans or walnuts

Preheat oven to 275. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper and reserve. Combine brown sugar and water in a 4 cup microwave proof glass measuring cup or bowl. Place in microwave on high for 5 minutes and cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from microwave, add vanilla and salt. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, and brown sugar syrup mixture. Stir until thoroughly mixed. Spread the granola onto cookie sheets and bake 45 minutes to an hour or until golden and crunchy. When the mixture comes out of the oven, it is still very pliable. You may choose to add dried fruit as well.