Sour Cherry & Almond Granola

Today I wanted to share with you a delicious recipe and fun Christmas gift for anyone... especially those who you love the most!! Before we get started, I must share that this is not my recipe, however it is from one of my favorite Mango Momma's - who also happened to celebrate a birthday week - so, Happy Birthday Momma J and thanks for sharing your tasty treat with us!

This granola is festive, easy to make, and is pretty easy on the taste buds as well. Today we are making Momma J's Sour Cherry & Almond Granola. 

Ingredients:

3 cups rolled oats
1.5 cups whole un-peeled almonds
1 cup coconut shavings
1 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
3/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cardamom {I substituted nutmeg and it was tasty... but if you have the cardamom - use it}
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup dried sour cherries

Directions:

Combine all ingredients {except for dried cherries} in a large bowl. Stir until coated evenly.  Distribute among two 2 sheet pans and bake at 300F for 45 Minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from oven and mix in Cherries.

Distribute into small mason jars, seal with a cute Christmas tag, a big bow and you're gifts are ready to go!  The gals {and guys} loved their goodies and I'm sure will love them even more when they have the chance to taste it. It's amazing as a snack, with milk, over yogurt... or even on top of ice-cream!

Check out this blog for cute packaging ideas!

Happy Baking and Merry Christmas!!!