Recipe Review: Granola Edition

The blackberries are still going. And you know what goes really well with blackberries? Granola! In this recipe review, I'll be sharing some of my favorite granola recipes that I've stumbled across this past year.

Slow Cooker Granola

Slow cookers are terrific for summer baking, when we don't want to heat up the whole house with the oven. The only problem is that condensation tends to build up on the slow cooker lid. One thoughtless move can result in dumping all that water onto the granola, and we want crunchy granola, not soggy. :) A handy anti-moisture tip that I've learned is to tie a cotton dish-towel around the lid, and leave the lid slightly askew when baking.

Here's the recipe!

Gingerbread Granola

This one from Cookie and Kate smells absolutely heavenly. Even before you start baking it, the wonderfully cozy aroma will start wafting around the kitchen.

My Notes

• Seeds vs. Nuts

Nuts are awfully expensive as of late, so I usually swap in some seeds, instead of using the full measurement of nuts called for in the recipe. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seed, flaxseed - there's plenty to choose from. Pumpkin seeds have a lovely muted green color that complements the burgundy of dried cranberries really well. (I'm always in favor of Christmas-y colors, no matter the time of year. Hehe) Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health!

• Watch the salt

If you can, look for unsalted seeds or nuts. Otherwise, make sure to cut back on the salt in the recipe.

Ways to Love Granola

• With fresh fruit, berries, and a splash of milk. A light and sweet breakfast. Perfect for morning when you don't feel like hot oatmeal.

• On yogurt. (My mom's favorite.)

• In a pudding parfait. Use granola like you would use cake crumbs in a trifle. Layer it with vanilla pudding, a little yogurt, whipped cream, and berries for a simple dessert. Pansies optional but highly preferable. ;)

• Served with a baked apple and ice cream. If you're getting antsy for fall like me, a baked apple is sounding pretty good right about now. You can even "bake" an apple in the microwave. Just slice an apple in half, add a bit of butter and cinnamon, and microwave until it gets smushy. Another stupid easy dessert that can be thrown together in mere minutes!

"A good morning is when you have granola for breakfast."

'Til next time,

Eva