Edible gifts: Nutty maple granola

A café we frequented in Sydney (alas, long gone) used to serve an addictively yummy granola. It was crunchy, nutty, and not excessively sweet, and I wondered if I could make something similar. Well ... can't claim it is the same, but this recipe (adapted from one received from a friend) is well worth a try:

6 tablespoons (real) maple syrup
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups rustic rolled oats (not the quick-cooking variety)
2/3 cups nuts of your choice (almonds, hazel nuts and pecans work well)
1/3 cup shredded coconut

Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Melt the maple syrup and butter together in a saucepan but don't let it boil. Mix the oats, nuts and coconut together in a bowl. Combine all ingredients, then spread out on a non-stick baking tray. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring a couple of times.

This is far too decadent (read: sugary and buttery) for everyday use, but makes a wonderful weekend breakfast treat or edible gift. Store in an airtight container once completely cooled.

Today I used cashews, pecans and pistachios