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Recipe: Granola with raisins, apples and cinnamon

Dietitian's tip: Granola is a cereal-like combination of dried fruits, grains and nuts. Though it's a good source of protein and fiber, granola can also be high in fat and calories, especially the store-bought varieties. Watch your portion sizes or create your own granola to limit the amount of fat, calories and sugar in each serving.

SERVES 12

Ingredients
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 cups dry old-fashioned oatmeal
2 cups bran flakes
3/4 cup dried apple pieces
1/2 cup golden raisins

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 F. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.

Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant, about 10 minutes. Transfer immediately to a plate to cool. Raise the temperature of the oven to 350 F.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, applesauce, vanilla and cinnamon. Set aside.

In a large bowl, add the oatmeal and bran flakes. Stir to mix well. Add the honey mixture and toss with your hands. Don't break the clumps apart.

Spread the cereal mixture evenly onto a baking sheet. Place in the oven and, stirring occasionally, bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool slightly.

In a large bowl, combine the cereal mixture, toasted almonds, apple pieces and raisins. Cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Nutritional Analysis
(per serving)
Serving size: About 1/2 cup
Calories 163
Cholesterol 0 mg
Protein 4 g
Sodium 115 mg
Carbohydrate 33 g
Fiber 4 g
Total fat 2 g
Potassium 216 mg
Saturated fat trace
Calcium 27 mg
Monounsaturated fat 1 g

Granola with raisins, apples and cinnamon - MayoClinic.com