Recipe Tip: Winter Spiced Granola

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Pre-heat the oven to 180°C/160° fan, 350°F, gas mark 4. Line two large, shallow baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Step 2

   In a large bowl mix together the oats, nuts, spices and salt.

3. Step 3

   Melt the coconut oil over a medium heat, then add the maple (or golden) syrup and finally the vanilla. Mix together.

4. Step 4

   Pour the oil mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly to coat everything in the golden slick.

5. Step 5

   Divide between the baking trays, spreading out into a thin, even layer.

6. Step 6

   Bake for an initial 20 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Remove from the oven, sprinkle over the desiccated coconut and fork through, simultaneously turning the oats as best you can. N.B. the oats at the edge tend to brown more quickly, so be sure to mix these back in as you go to ensure even toastiness.

8. Step 8

   Bake for a further 10 minutes.

9. Step 9

   The oats should now be a light, burnished bronze. Bake for a further 5 mins if you prefer a darker and more intensely nutty blend.

10. Step 10

    Remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly before transferring to a bowl big enough to hold oats and fruit.

11. Step 11

    Whilst the oaty mixture is still warm, add your chosen dried fruits and mix to combine.

12. Step 12

    Once fully cooled transfer to an air-tight jar and label proprietorially.