Homemade granola

I much rather make my own granola with healthy ingredients than buy it at the store where they (usually) add all different kinds of corn syrup and preservatives. For my birthday my parents gave me a terrific cookbook... barefoot contessa, back to the basics, fabulous flavor from simple ingredients. It's been a hit! This granola will be a staple in our home and over time I'm sure I'll start switching the fruits, nuts, etc. This recipe was actually for granola bars but it pretty much came out to be granola ;)

2 cups old-fashion oatmeal
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup wheat germ
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup honey (I may cut this a little next time)
1/4 cup light brown sugar (I may cut this a little next time)
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
1/2 cup dried cranberries

1. Preheat oven to 350. Butter a 8X12 inch baking dish.
2. Toast the oatmeal, almonds, and coconut on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly brown. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and add the wheat germ.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 300.
4. Place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture.
5. Add dates, apricots, and cranberries and stir well.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan. Bake from 25-30 minutes. Cool for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature.

P.S. The batter is delicious!