Crunch for brunch

Once the signature snack of tree-huggers only, homemade granola, served with fine yogurts and ripe fruits, is now on brunch tables at trendy restaurants. Gourmet markets also sell granola of all varieties -- and at exaggerated costs. If your own brunch table is about to be inundated with graduation friends and family, granola is the perfect item to have on hand. The homemade version is healthier and cheaper, and it only takes an hour to make enough for about three dozen servings.

When you combine your own seeds and fruits, of course, you get to decide what goes in. This recipe is based on old-fashioned rolled oats, mixed with coconut, walnuts, almonds, and dried cherries. Add more honey, decrease the sugar or include sunflower seeds, different nuts (try cashews, pecans, or hazelnuts) and other fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates). Or, use fewer oats with several cups of rolled wheat or barley flakes. Shredded coconut, when cooked, adds nice texture and a delicious toasted sweetness.

For brunch, set out big bowls of plain yogurt, chopped fruits, and granola and let guests help themselves or top baked fruits with the crunchy oat mixture. With energy and a happy belly, you might skip through the day, let your hair down, or even start hugging trees. -- JILL SANTOPIETRO