Fresh Fruit Parfaits with Homemade Granola

On hot summer days or when we want a healthy, refreshing snack, we make parfaits that I load up with fresh fruit (bananas, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries).  I top the fresh fruit with a big dollop of our favorite low-fat yogurt, then add about 2-3 tablespoons of my homemade granola.  Yummy!

Linda's Dried Fruit Granola
Yields approximately 4.25 cups


Ingredients


2 cups old-fashioned Oats
1 cup of Almonds (sliced or chopped)
Nonstick Vegetable Oil spray
1/2 cup pure Maple Syrup
1 tablespoon unsalted Butter, melted
1 teaspoon Canola (or vegetable) Oil
1/4 cup dried Cranberries (I use Craisins)
1/4 cup dried golden Raisins
1/4 cup dried Mango, cut into small pieces
1/4 cup dried Blueberries
1/4 cup dried Cherries, chopped

Note:  You can use any combination of dried fruit.

Directions


1.  Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

2.  Spread oats on a large, rimmed cookie sheet.  Bake for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3.  Transfer to a heatproof bowl.  Stir in almonds.

4.  In a separate bowl mix maple syrup, butter, and oil.  Pour over oats and stir thoroughly to evenly coat oats.

5.  Spray cookie sheets with non-stick spray.  Spread mixture on prepared cookie sheet.

6.  Bake for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7.  Mix in the dried fruit and bake for an additional 10 minutes.  Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.

8.  Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!