I am obsessed with granola, and this granola is probably the best I have ever eaten. I love it. I think this is such a fitting recipe for this month’s entertainment centered theme. Part of entertaining is giving gifts and this would be the perfect gift to give. I love food gifts during the holidays because I think it is fun to taste the treats that other people find so special during this time. Putting this in a breakfast themed basket would be such a cute gift for the holidays. Add some great coffee, holiday themed coffee mugs, a good book, a breakfast tray, and the granola to a basket and you have a wonderful gift! Another great thing about this recipe is how versatile it is. The nuts can be switched out and other dried fruit and goodies can be added to make different flavors for all times and occasions of the year! I hope you and your friends/family will try out this recipe. 

3 cups old fashioned oats

1 cup raw walnuts

1 cup shelled pumpkin seeds

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon orange zest

1 teaspoon sea salt

3/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger

1 cup roughly chopped dark chocolate chunks

Combine oats, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and orange zest. Pour the liquid over the dry mixture and toss until completely combined. Spread mixture over large baking sheet and place in 300 degree F oven. For about 40 minutes. Toss the mixture every 10 minutes until the granola is golden brown and crunchy. When the granola comes out of the oven mix in the chopped crystallized ginger and the chocolate chunks. The chocolate will melt when it hits the hot granola, make sure the mix thoroughly so that it is evenly distributed. Let cool completely and enjoy!