pumpkin pecan granola

i love granola, but just can't justify the super high calorie, high sugar stuff you buy at the store.

for those of you that have tried your hand at homemade granola, you know it's super easy, 

tastes delicious, and is much healthier than the store bought stuff.

i know it's not the time of year you're normally thinking about pumpkin pie spice 

and pumpkin puree, but you'll change your mind as soon as you smell this baking in your oven!

the recipe is easy and delicious.

i've been eating this on top of my oatmeal and yogurt all week.

{this first made an appearance at marcy's baby shower this past weekend!}

recipe via sprouted kitchen

makes about 3 cups

ingredients

2 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

sea salt

3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/3 cup grade B maple syrup

1/3 cup pumpkin puree

2 cups old fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup raw pecan pieces

3 tablespoons sesame seeds

1/2 cup crimson or golden raisins

directions

1. preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2. in a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt,
the pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree and whisk to combine.

3. add oats, pecans, and sesame seeds and stir until evenly coated.

4. spread mixture on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper, 

keeping some of the clusters of oats intact.
bake granola until dry and light brown in color, 35-45 minutes,
stirring every 10 minutes, making sure no spots getting extra toasted.

5. remove from oven and allow granola to cool a few minutes. add raisins and toss to mix. 

add another pinch or two of salt if needed. cool completely before storing. 

can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.