My Secret to a Happy Crew

I’m starting to believe the secret to happy guests is good granola. Well, it at least helps. Waking up to smells of cinnamon and maple syrup filling the galley, they’re excited to see what I pull out of the oven. They appreciate that I went the extra mile to make homemade granola for them (on a boat!!), and generally, it just starts the day off on a high note. Best enjoyed with some fresh fruit and chia pudding or yogurt, this granola hits every time. I’ve been asked for the recipe on just about every trip. So here it is!

In a large bowl, mix together:

• 4 cups oats (rolled is better but quick will work)

• 2 cups nuts and seeds (I like pumpkin seeds + walnuts + pecans)

• ½ cup coconut flakes (or more, optional)

• ¼ cup ground flax, chia, and/or hemp seeds (or more)

• 1 tsp cinnamon (better to measure with the heart)

• 1 tsp salt

Then add in:

• ½ cup maple syrup

• ½ cup coconut (sweeter), olive (richer), or avocado (neutral) oil

• 1 tsp vanilla (if you have it, but if you’re in the Caribbean and it costs $30, you can omit!)

One more optional ingredient:

• 1 cup dried fruits, but better not to add until halfway through baking.

Mix it alllll up until everything is evenly coated with the oil and maple syrup.

Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat.

Bake at 350 for 10 minutes, then turn and flatten firmly with a spatula (this is key to getting big chunks!), and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until nicely golden brown. This is also the time to add in dried fruits if you’d like to add any cranberries, cherries, blueberries, etc. Let it cool at least a little before serving (that is also key to the big chunks forming).

I hope you enjoy!

:) Phoebe