Toasted Crunchy Granola Clusters

Directions

1. 1
   NOTE: For the corn flakes, you can use either plain or frosted or flavored.
2. 2
   I use the ones pictured here.
3. 3
   NOTE: Use your favorite dried fruits (in addition to the raisins).
4. 4
   Dried cranberries, cherries, pineapple, prunes, dates -- whatever you like in any combination to equal 1 cup total.
5. 5
   Cut up or tear any large pieces so they're about the same size as the raisins for more even distribution in the granola.
6. 6
   You'll need a very large mixing bowl that holds at least 32 cups.
7. 7
   I use the Tupperware Thatsa Bowl.
8. 8
   Put the corn flakes in the bowl and smash them up a bit.
9. 9
   I use a plastic cup to smash mine.
10. 10
    Add remaining granola ingredients and toss well with a mixing spoon to evenly distribute the ingredients.
11. 11
    Put all the coating mixture ingredients into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until butter is melted, stirring occasionally to combine.
12. 12
    Pour about half this mixture evenly over the granola.
13. 13
    With the large mixing spoon, stir and toss for about 2 to 3 minutes to evenly coat the granola.
14. 14
    Pour the rest of the the coating mixture over the granola and continue mixing until all seems to be coated.
15. 15
    In a small bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy.
16. 16
    Pour evenly over the granola.
17. 17
    Stir and toss for 2 to 3 minutes to evenly coat the granola with the egg white.
18. 18
    The egg whites will give the granola the crunchy clumpiness.
19. 19
    Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.
20. 20
    Divide the granola evenly between the 2 cookie sheets spreading out with the back of the large mixing spoon or a spatula.
21. 21
    Bake in a preheated 300F oven for 25 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through for even toasting.
22. 22
    Turn off the oven, prop open the oven door, and allow the granola to cool in the oven for 3 hours.
23. 23
    (You can do make this just before bedtime and allow to cool in the oven overnight, if desired.)
24. 24
    With clean hands, gently break the sheets of cooled granola into clusters.
25. 25
    Store in ziplock baggies or a covered container.
26. 26
    Munch away!
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    !