Treat Yourself this Fall

As the sun begins to set earlier and the cool, crisp air blows past carrying the fragrance of fall – it’s the perfect time to make a treat that your family can enjoy. Pumpkin granola is a crunchy and flavorful snack that is not only healthy, but gluten free.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 8-10 dried dates, pits removed, then chopped
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
• pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees
• In a large mixing bowl, add your pumpkin puree, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract and all spices. Mix well.
• Then add your nuts, seeds and dates and mix well with your wet ingredients
• Place parchment paper on a large baking sheet and pour your granola mixture on top. Use a spoon to spread out the mixture evenly so everything will cook at the same time.
• Place in oven and cook for 30-40 minutes, moving the granola around halfway through to be sure it doesn’t burn
• LET COOL. Letting the granola cool will help it harden up, and that’s what you want from granola.

Enjoy!

LC 2016-435