Easy Granola

 This is the best recipe for granola. We go through tons of cereal and this is such a cheaper alternative.  We buy oatmeal in bulk and use it in more then cereal. Cookies, breads, apple crisp, etc. This cranola has the perfect amount of texture and crunch. It makes the perfect yogurt topping or late night snack with milk.

1 Cup Water
1/2 Cup Sugar
1 tsp salt
3 Tbs Oil
5 Cups Oats
Flavors, we love anise, almond or coconut extract. (optional)
Nuts (optional)
Fruit (optional)
Chocolate chips, opt.

Preheat the oven to 425.  Put the oats into a bowl.  On the stove warm up the water and the oil. Combine the sugar and salt with the water.  Let it heat up and get thick, but don't boil it.  If you want to add flavor extracts like almond or vanilla do it now.  Combine this with the oats in a bowl and mix together.  If you want to add dry flavors like cinnamon or peanut butter, this would be the time to add.  You can also add other things like nuts, dried fruit and so on at this stage.  Place the mixture onto a lightly greased baking sheet, or use a silicon mat :)  Bake in the oven for about 20 - 30 Minutes, stirring/checking every 10 minutes to ensure it isn't burning.  If you want it real crunchy like my husband does, another 10 - 15 minutes is all you need, but watch it so it doesn't burn.

Let it cool and enjoy.  Store it in airtight containers for future consumption.