Kashi Cookies

When I came across this cookie recipe on TWD's blog I immediately knew I had to try it. I love granola and I love cookies that are loaded with fruit, nuts, you name it, so these were right up my alley. I think I just found my new favorite cookie.

INGREDIENTS:
3 cups granola without fruit (I only had granola with raisins and almonds so I reduced the ingredients later on)
3/4 cup moist, plump raisins (dark or golden)
1/2 cup salted peanuts
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/3 cup wheat germ (didn't have this so I added a little extra flour)
1-3/4 sticks (14 tbsp) unsalted butter, room temp
3/4 cup (packed) light brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup AP flour

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375F. Line baking sheet with silpat or parchment paper.
2. Put cereal in a large bowl and break up any clumps with your fingers. Add in craisins, peanuts, and coconut (optional). Mix together.
3. Cream butter at medium speed for about 1-2 minutes. Add sugars and beat until creamy. Add in egg and salt. Reduce speed to low and slowly add in flour a little at a time until just blended.
4. Slowly add the cereal mixture and use a spatula to fold it into the cookie batter.

5. Scoop out the cookie dough in 1/2-1oz balls (depending on how big you want the cookies) and arrange on baking sheet about 1-2 inches between each ball. (Side note: The first batch I just scooped the dough onto the sheet and they turned out a little crumbly, so the second batch I pressed them into balls and they were firmer.)
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Repeat with remaining dough. (I was able to make 3 dozen small cookies.)