Nutella Granola with Cherries and Almonds

I have become slightly obsessed with Nutella. It may have to do with the fact that I do not consider Nutella to be a "sweet" (which I have given up until Easter). My rationale is as follows; Nutella = hazelnut spread, which is similar to peanut butter & almond butter. I do not consider peanut butter to be a sweet, so Nutella shouldn't be either!  This granola really is a treat (not a sweet) and the antioxidant rich sour cherries and protein packed almonds make this a satisfying, healthy and delicious snack.


Recipe
2 cups of old fashioned oats
1/2 cups dried tart cherries
1/3 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup Nutella
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix oats, cherries and almonds in a bowl.  Set aside.  Put maple syrup and Nutella in a microwave safe bowl and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir until smooth (you may need to melt the mixture for a few more seconds).  Pour Nutella/syrup mixture over oat  mixture and stir until oats are evenly covered. Spread mixture onto a cookie sheet covered with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.  Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.  Let granola cool for 30 minutes before storing/eating.