Crunchy Quinoa Granola

I still think my favorite homemade crunch granola is this Chocolate Hazelnut Granola, but this version from How Sweet It Is is pretty tasty as well. Granola is easy to make and provides a healthier alternative than many other snacks ... however, I'm pretty sure that when I dip my bananas in chocolate, roll them in this granola and freeze them that they will be delicious but not extremely healthy. This inner child of mine has completely shredded my willpower.

Crunch Quinoa Granola

2 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup toasted sliced almonds
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 cup honey
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine oats, almonds, quinoa, flaxseed, cinnamon and salt. Stir well to combine.

Add butter to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Whisk constantly until brown bits appear on the bottom, about 5-6 minutes, then immediately remove from heat and set aside. Stir in honey and vanilla extract.

Pour butter/honey over the oat mixture, stirring with a large spoon until the entire thing is equally moistened. Spread evenly on the baking sheet in one layer.

Bake for 10 minutes, toss and then bake for 10 minutes more. Toss again, then bake for about 10 more minutes, stirring every 3 minutes or so until the mixture is golden.

Remove and let cool for about 10 minutes. Pour chocolate chips over top, and stir in gently. Let cool completely for at least one hour before eating. Makes about 4 cups.