Chocolate Cranberry Granola

When the Mason Jar Cookie Company invited me to check out their line, I was like, “Heck yeah!” They offered me the choice between a cookie mix and granola mix; I went for the Chocolate Cranberry Granola and I’m so glad I did!

So this delectable oat, cranberry and white chocolate chip filled mason jar was sittin’ pretty in my pantry for a number of days when it all of a sudden hit me, how perfect would this irresistible mix be as a Mother’s Day gift?

I mean, I know I’d love a jar of sweet and crunchy goodness all packed and ready to go. With its simple six step instructions for baking, one hardly has to think, let alone mess up the kitchen too much before enjoying a sweet and healthy breakfast any day of the week.

And let’s not forget about its adorable packaging….a keepsake in and of itself…I see vase in its future…

So, granola and I go way back. And the first few times I attempted it, ’twas not pretty. I burned it.

What is that?

I mean – it’s granola….you throw some oats and a few yummy mix-ins together, pop it in the oven, and have yourself a topping for your favorite yogurt.

Nope, it was all sorts of difficult for me. I’d like to tell you I was a new bride when I tried it – naaaaah – three kids and a dog…you’d think I’d be capable.

Welp, all the more reason to welcome this fine product into my life. I mean, who’s got time for burnt granola? And not for nothing, I want the hardest part of this entire process to be the patience I have to exert before digging in and chowing down. You need a good 20 minutes to let it cool before snack time begins. That’s a long time when you’re hungry.

So the lovely thing about this company is that they specialize in all sorts of tasty mixes…they’ve got your cookie mixes, your brownie mixes, your hot cocoa, granola, muffin, pancake and scone. There’s literally something for everyone.

So if your mom is more a scone girl – you know what to do…

The Baking Instructions for this granola are easy as pie…or granola, I should say…

1.) Preheat oven to 300 F.

2.) Empty the Mason Jar jar contents and stir well to combine.

3.) Add 1/3 cup honey and 1/4 cup vegetable oil and mix until thoroughly coated with your hands – not mixers or spoons! {*Try adding flavored honey!}

4.) Spread mixture in a thin even layer on a rimmed baking sheet.

5.) Bake about 10-15 minutes or until light golden brown.

6.) Let cool about twenty minutes to set.

Yep, there’s something wonderful about the combination of cranberries and white chocolate in a wholesome granola base…I could get used to this!

Buon Appetito!

CIAO!