Sometimes I really need some chocolate, and sometimes my kids really want something sweet, especially after a long day at school. For that purpose, I tend to keep granola on hand. Unfortunately, the cost of store bought granola is ridiculous, and it’s usually not as clean as I prefer. Luckily it is really easy to make your own (and of course customize it to your own family’s tastes).
If you use the food processor to chop your nuts you can have your kids help.

Ingredients
2 cups whole raw nuts (you can use whatever nuts your family enjoys, or whatever you find on sale) I tend to use equal parts cashews and walnuts.
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup honey (raw if you are shooting for clean)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 ounces dark chocolate coarsely chopped

Directions

1. .First things first, preheat your oven to 200 degrees. You will want to cook the granola low and slow.
2. Chop your nuts into coarse chunks. (You can use your food processor for this if you choose.)
3. Melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan. When it is completely liquid add the honey and stir together. Add in the cocoa power, vanilla, and the salt. Mix well.
4. In a large mixing bowl add the nuts you have chopped and then pour the butter and honey mixture on top. Using your hand mixer mix everything together.
5. Spread the incredibly sticky mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Use a greased spoon to spread it out if it needs a little help. Spread it as evenly as possible. Sprinkle the chocolate on top.
6. Bake for four hours.
7. When it is finished baking remove from the oven and allow to completely cool. Once cool you will be able to break into small pieces.

This granola should last about three weeks if kept in a sealed bag. But if your kids love it as much as mine, it won’t last half that long.
-Stephanie Wright