Cut each apple into 4 horizontal slices, creating round, flat circles (with a hole in the center, like an O). Discard seeds and any pulp around the core.

Lay 4 apple circles on a plate. Spread almond butter on top of each slice, sprinkle with granola and shredded coconut, and top each sandwich with remaining apple slices. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings

To make the granola:
Once you learn how to make granola you'll never buy store-bought again. This is a pantry staple.

Ingredients:
For the granola:
6 cups (480g) old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups (218g) nuts (slivered almonds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, etc.)
1 cup (80g) shredded sweet coconut
1/2 cup (80g) whole flaxseeds
1 1/2 cups (approximately 22g) mix-ins (See suggestions below.)
1/2 cup (120 ml) plus 2 tablespoons (30 ml) maple syrup
1/2 cup (75g) brown sugar
1/2 cup (120 ml) cocount oil (melted), butter, or vegetable oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
 

Mix-in Ideas (1 1/2 cups [180 to 220g] total):
Raisins
Dried blueberries
Dried cherries
Dried cranberries
Dried apricots
Dates
Walnuts

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 C).
In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, coconut, flaxseeds, and mix-ins.
In a separate bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, oil, and salt.
Combine both mixtures in larger bowl and mix well (yes, sometimes you have to use your hands here) until all is evenly coated.
Divide uncooked granola onto 2 sheet pans, spreading it evenly over the surface. Cook for 50 minutes, stirring every 15 to 20 minutes to acheive an even color.

Yield: Approximately 8 cups (800g)