Give The Gift of Granola

So, someone at my house thinks it's weird to give granola as a gift.  But every time I've gifted this granola, the receiver asks for the recipe.  You decide.

Great Gift Giving Granola

4 C. old-fashioned oats (very important!  Don't use quick oats!)

1 C. wheat germ

4 T. brown sugar

1/4 tsp. salt

1 C. Nuts & Seeds (I used sunflower seeds, pepitos, and ground flax)

1 C. Dried fruit (I used sweet cherries, wild blueberries, and orange cranberries)

1/4 C. maple syrup

1/4 C. honey

6 T. Canola oil

2 T. water

1 1/2 tsp. almond extract

Combine oats, wheat germ, brown sugar, salt, and seeds in a large bowl.  Set aside.

Combine syrup, honey, oil, water, and almond extract in a small saucepan.  Heat to a simmer over medium heat.  Stir really well, then pour over dry ingredients.  Combine the two mixtures thoroughly.

Pour into two 9x13 pans (I think it bakes better in glass than metal pans) sprayed with cooking spray.  Place in 275 degree oven and bake for 35 min.  Add dried fruit, stir, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it's browning.  It will crisp up a little more as it cools, so don't over bake it.