Granola with Maple-Glazed Walnuts

• MAKE-AHEAD
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4. 1/2 cup light brown sugar
5. 1/2 teaspoon salt
6. Large pinch of ground cinnamon
7. Large pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
8. 2 pounds thick-cut oats
9. 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
10. 2 cups walnut halves (11 ounces)
11. 3 cups dried cranberries, cherries or golden raisins (1 pound)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°. Butter a roasting pan. In a mini food processor, pulse the butter, flour, baking soda, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg until crumbly. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in the oats and 3/4 cup of the maple syrup; transfer to the prepared pan. Bake for 50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp. Let cool.
2. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, toss the walnut halves with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Spread the walnuts onto a small rimmed baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 20 minutes, tossing occasionally, until golden and caramelized. Transfer the walnuts to a cutting board and let cool.
3. Chop the walnuts and add them to the granola along with the dried fruit. Divide among eight gift bags and seal tightly.