i made a few runs at homemade granola, then gave it up as a bad job. the time and money invested in the scratch batches seemed excessive, since i could buy great granola in pre-made baggies for less. and the end result was always nice but not amazing enough to justify the extra expense and effort.

but thennnnn this recipe caught my eye. [anyone else read cookbooks in bed? no? just me?] i loved the use of pumpkin seeds and maple syrup (sounds seasonal, right?) and decided to give it a shot. ohhh my gosh. i was able to find the raw ingredients at trader joe’s and i miiiiiight just add a sprinkle of cinnamon next time. it also makes a mondo batch that would be perfect for holiday gifting, a hostess gift, or just munching for the next four weeks. i think i’ll end up serving this as our breakfast over some yogurt on thanksgiving morning, which would mean i don’t have anything additional to bake (yay!) and works for j as he likes to just pour granola and milk into a bowl and eat it like cereal.

alternately, if granola’s not your thing i love the following on turkey day:

cinnamon rolls (options include seasonal orange, maple, cranberry or pumpkin versions!)
cranberry orange muffins
coffee cake
pumpkin pancakes/waffles

recipe can be found here at food 52.