Yogurt Granola "Jan" Jar

These days everyone knows how important it is to know what’s in your food.  It’s best to avoid overly processed food with lots of refined sugar.  It’s actually very easy to take control of your own diet.  Just Jan’s Fruit Spreads are low in sugar and loaded with anti-oxidant rich fruits with no fillers, just the whole fruit.

 This idea for a jam yogurt granola jar is a great example of convenience made wholesome.  By making your own granola (which is quite easy) using a plain greek yogurt with no added sugar yet all of the protein rich creaminess and a few spoonfuls of Just Jan’s fruit spread you’ll have co-workers look longingly at your Pinterest worthy portable breakfast!  (P.S. you can follow us on Pinterest )

Start with this simple granola recipe made with pure maple syrup and lots of healthy cinnamon.  You can vary the kind of nuts or dried fruit you add according to your tastes.

Maple Cinnamon Granola

4 1/2 c. rolled oats

2 Tbsp. ground cinnamon

2 c. nuts of your choice coarsely chopped (almonds or walnuts work very well)

1 1/4 c. pure maple syrup

1/3 c. healthy oil (coconut or olive oil are great) if you use coconut oil warm it to melt

1 c. dried fruit (raisins, dried apricots, cherries…your choice)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Mix together the oats, cinnamon, nuts in a large bowl.  Add the maple syrup and oil until all of the dry ingredients are coated.

Spread the mixture on a rimmed baking tray and bake for about 25 minutes, then stir working from the outside of the pan in.  Bake about 15 to 20 minutes longer until golden brown.

Your kitchen is going to smell GREAT!  Let the mixture cool completely before you add the dried fruit.

Transfer to an air tight container.  The granola keeps for months, if it will last that long.

 Layer up the ingredients in a jar or bowl and you have a nutritious treat.  Protein, grains and fruit.  The whole package.  Perfect for work, school or picnics.

 Any flavor of Just Jan’s Fruit Spread would be delicious combined with these ingredients.  Make a combination of your own.  Let us know what you come up with.