Granola by Courtney

So, as you may know, I don't really follow many recipes. Generally, I use them as suggestions or as springboards for my imagination. this holds true for my granola making. So, here are my remembrances.....

Granola

Dump a bunch of oats in a bowl (many cups) and microwave them for 2 minutes. Stir. In the meantime, make your spice goo.

Spice Goo (7/27/07)
some brown sugar (maybe 1/2 cup)
some honey (good squirt)
some dark molasses
canola oil (same amount as brown sugar)
a shot of vanilla
several shakes of nutmeg and cinamon

Stir the spice goo into the oats and microwave for 1 minute. Stir. Add some almonds. Microwave again for 1 minute. Stir. Add some raisins. Stir. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring every minute.

Spread on sheet pans to cool.

You have easy, yummy, healthy granola in no time at all! Enjoy!

Mississippi Mud Cake

As requested, here is the recipe for chocolatey goodness!

Mississippi Mud Cake

4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow creme

Cream eggs, sugar, butter and vanilla. Gradually add flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder; beat until blended. Stir in coconut and pecans. Pour in a 8x8-inch square baking pan coated with nonstick spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 - 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Spread marshmallow creme on cake while still warm. (I didn't use the whole jar, maybe 2/3?)

Frosting
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/3 cup cocoa powder
3 3/4 cups powdered sugar

Cream butter with milk and vanilla. Add cocoa powder and sugar, and mix until smooth. Spread on cooled cake.

Makes 64 pieces (small pieces are perfect!)

Source: my mom's recipe box