Yummy Granola

So I stumbled across a recipe for carrot cake granola, on a blog, and had to try it.  I changed it up of course, as I often do, but it came out so amazing. 

2 cups oats, old fashioned not quick
1/2 cup seeds or nuts of choice, I used pecans and pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup large flake unsweetened coconut, can use shredded
1/2 cup shredded carrot
1 pear, pureed to a sauce
1/8 cup honey, maple syrup, or agave
3 T ground flax, I like golden flax for this
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp oil, I like coconut (melted) or any vegetable oil also works
2 tsp baking spice blend, I use Penzey's baking spice, you could use cinnamon or apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg, or whatever you like
1/4 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 325.  In large bowl mix oats, seeds, and coconut.  In a blender puree the pear, adding the carrot, sweetener, flax, vanilla, oil, salt, and spices.  Mix till blended and pour over oat mixture.  Mix well.  Pour onto large cookie sheet and bake 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 till crunchy.  Mine took 30.  Let cool on the pan.  Store airtight. 

If desired add some raisins once it is cool, I didn't as I don't always like raisins, but feel free to add any other fruit you like, dried pineapple would also be nice.  This is really yummy with yogurt.  I really like that it isn't too sweet or drowning in fat.  I am thinking they would make amazing granola bars. I will let you know if I try that.  The kids love this too!