Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your granola will toast evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the granola from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the pure maple syrup, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and vegetable oil. Whisk until well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients - Add the old-fashioned rolled oats and chopped almonds to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet - Pour the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring it’s in a single layer for even toasting.
Step 6: Bake - Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Step 7: Add Dried Fruits - Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before stirring in the dried cranberries and chopped dried apricots.
Step 8: Cool and Store - Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps it to crisp up!