Basic Slow-Cooker Granola Recipe
Makes 10 servings This lightly sweetened cereal is a great starter granola for people who like their food plain & simple. The slow-cooker method is simple enough that the kid can be the chef too.
5 cups old-fashioned oatmeal, uncooked
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey (or to taste)
1/3 cup grape seed oil (or vegetable oil or melted butter)
In a slow-cooker stir together the oatmeal, cinnamon & salt. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, heat honey in microwave oven for about 30 seconds to liquefy. Add honey & oil or butter to slow-cooker & stir well. Set slow-cooker to low, cover & vent by inserting a wooden spoon under the lid. Cook for about 3 hours, stirring every 1/2 hour or more frequently as the granola starts smelling toasty. When the granola is dark golden brown, pour onto a baking sheet spread evenly. Cool several hours or overnight. Store in a lidded glass jar or other glass container.
Options:
add flavored extracts
add 1/4 cup chopped nuts
add 1/4 cup flax seeds, sunflower or chia seeds
add 1 cup dried fruit once granola has cooled
substitute maple syrup or molasses for the honey