Maple Apple Pecan Granola

Was trying to figure out something new to do today so leafed through some of the myriad of cookbooks on my shelf looking for inspiration.  I kept coming across recipes for different types of granola and realized that I've never made it before. So here you go, a little culinary experimentation to get your week started.

Maple Apple Pecan Granola

3 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 cup water
2 tbsp. maple syrup
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. brown sugar
1 small Granny Smith apple, diced

In bowl, mix together the rolled oats, pecans, and cinnamon.

In a small saucepan, bring the water, maple syrup, vanilla and brown sugar to a boil.  Set aside.

Core, peel, and dice the apple, then mix into the rolled oats mixture. 

Pour the liquid over the dry ingredients and stir well making sure that everything is evenly coated.

Grease a large cookie sheet using butter or a butter spray.

Pour the granola mixture onto the cookie sheet, spreading out to make an even layer across the whole thing.

Bake at 325 degrees for 35-40 minutes, stirring once or twice during the baking process, or until mixture is browned and crisped.

You can serve in a bowl with milk or over your favorite yogurt or over your favorite ice cream or use it as crumb topping for a coffee cake or muffins.  So many options, so many choices.