Lately I have been craving snacks to get me through the final weeks of my pregnancy. After seeing the scale go up more than preferred, I realized it was time to get a healthy snack in the kitchen that I could grab and go without thought and without shame. Oats are among the healthiest grains on the planet, commonly sold in bulk (good bye plastic), and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. The trick to getting all the benefits? Keeping the rest of the ingredients as beneficial as the oats themselves. That’s something I am still on a journey on but for now, here is my super simple granola recipe to keep a staple snack in the kitchen.

Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats 

1 teaspoon salt 

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/3 cup oil (coconut oil recommended)

1/3 cup maple syrup

3 teaspoons vanilla

Directions

STEP 1 Preheat your oven to 300 degrees. Place a silicone mat In a large cookie sheet.

STEP 2 Combine all ingredients, mixing between each addition. Be sure to not break up natural clumps within the oats as it will allow for granola crunches after cooking.

STEP 3 Spread onto your prepared cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring 1-2 times during this duration.

STEP 4 Allow granola to fully cool before removing from cookie sheet. Up to 20 minutes.

STEP 5 Serve with your favorite toppings such as dried fruits, chocolate chips, or honey. Enjoy without a care.