Despite its “healthy” reputation, granola – especially the commercial variety – is often alarmingly high in fat and calories. This homemade version, which relies on naturally low-calorie sweeteners, is considerably better for you.
| Time: | Prep. 10 min.; Baking 30 min. |
| Makes: | 4 servings |
| Per serving: | |
| Calories: | 250 |
| Fat: | 1.5 g. (5% of calories) |
| Fiber: | 3.5 g. |
| Cholesterol: | 2 mg. |
| Sodium: | 218 mg. |
Light Three-Grain Granola
2 cups puffed rice
1 1/3 cups bran flakes
1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/4 cup raisins
2 tbsp toasted wheat germ
1/2 cup unsweetened apple juice
2 tbsp honey
In a medium bowl, combine the puffed rice, bran flakes, oats, raisins and wheat germ.
In a small bowl, stir together the apple juice and honey. Pour over the puffed rice mixture and toss until moistened.
Spray a 15″ X 10″ baking pan with no-stick spray. Spread the puffed rice mixture in the pan. Bake at 300 degrees F about 30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring twice during baking.
Transfer the granola to a large piece of foil. Let the mixture cool, then break it into pieces.
To store: Transfer the granola to a container. Cover loosely and store at room temperature until ready to serve. (Do not cover tightly because the cereal will not stay crisp.)
To serve: For each serving, place 3/4 cup granola in a cereal bowl and add 1Ú2 cup skim milk.
Chef’s note: If you want to splurge a little, stir 1/4 cup flaked coconut into the cereal mixture before baking. You’ll get an extra 35 calories and 2.4 grams of fat in each serving.
