5 cups rolled (old-fashioned) oats
1 cup sliced almonds
3/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped dates
1/2 cuo sesame seeds
2/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup corn oil OR other mild-tasting oil
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
pinch of salt

combine all the ingredients in a lightly oiled 4-qt slow cooker & stir to combine. cook on HIGH for 1 1/2 hours, uncovered, stirring occasionally.

reduce the heat to LOW & cook, uncovered, for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is crisp & dry.

spread the granola on a baking sheet to cool completely. store in airtight jars. it will taste best if used within 2 weeks.

makes about 8 cups

TRY MIXING THINGS UP FOR VARIETY. SUBSTITUTE DRIED BLUEBERRIES FOR THE CRANBERRIES, USE RAISINS INSTEAD OF DATES, OR OMIT THE COCONUT IN FAVOR OF SOMETHING YOU LIKE BETTER.