Ingredient: almonds

Burnt Almonds (Gebrannte Mandeln)

We discovered this recipe while looking for German Christmas recipes. Many “Weihnachtsmarkt” (Christmas markets) serve these cinnamony nuts. While it would make sense to share the recipe for Christmas, we decided to wait until National Almond Day, which is the 16th of February every year.

To keep from burning, the mixture needs to be stirred continuously.

Granola 2

This is probably one of our top five recipes that require a lot of time. However, most of the time is “waiting”.

Allan prefers muesli to granola. I enjoy muesli, but I like the crunch of granola. So, when I discovered dehydrating granola, instead of baking it, we tried it. It is a favorite, and I make it when I have the extra time.

I use raw nuts in this recipe because I soak them and then dehydrate for a different taste to the nuts. I have also learned that soaking and dehydrated seeds are often recommended because of health benefits. If you are interested in learning more, a lot of research can be done online. I would recommend dehydrating as much as your machine will hold at one time to save on time later.

Be creative when personalizing this recipes. Macadamia and hazelnuts are good nuts to add. Cocoa nibs and dried tart cherries are great additions. Use more oats and less nuts if desired. If you want to use less maple syrup, increase amount of raisin “slurry”. If you prefer to bake this, see notes. This is a very adaptable recipe.

Granola

There are so many different recipes for granola. This one is very versatile, so experiment to find favorite combinations. For example, use all pecans, or add pepitas in place of the almonds. Replace cherries with dried mango slices or peaches. Another option is to try adding hemp hearts or flax seed near the end of baking.

I would recommend keeping track of favorites, because it can become addictive, experimenting to find the perfect granola.

Instant Oatmeal

This is similar to instant oatmeal packets you can buy at the store. It is also very customizable. Start with the basic oatmeal and then adjust or substitute other ingredients to make your own personal mix.

Butter Toffee

Before getting married, I worked as a third grade paraprofessional.  My first year was wonderful. The teachers used me as an under teacher, working with different students and using my strengths to help the classes.   Since I am right handed, I learned to write on a chalk board and I taught cursive that year.

Since I interacted with the students so much, they spoiled me often.  At Christmas, Brianna brought me a batch of this candy.  I liked it so much, I requested a recipe.  I have made this recipe almost every year since.  Now Andrea makes this recipe also.