• Preheat oven to 325 F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.

Caramelized Oats

• Add unsalted butter and light brown sugar to a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Bring the mixture to a boil. Boil for 1 minute and remove from heat.
• Add vanill bean paste and old fashioned oats to sugar mixture. Stir in with wooden spoon.
• Spread the oats mixture in a single layer on 1 of the prepared baking sheets.
• Bake 10 minutes in preheated oven. Remove from oven. Stir the oats. Return to the oven for additional 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from oven and place on wire rack. Cool completely.
• Break into tiny pieces.

Old Fashioned Oats Granola:

• Add old fashioned oats, sliced almonds, and cashew pieces to mixing bowl. Stir to combine. Set aside.
• Add unsalted butter to small saucepan. Melt over low heat. Remove from stove top. Stir in honey, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste.
• Pour honey butter mixture over oats mix. Stir until all oats and nuts are evenly coated.
• Spread granola mixture evenly on prepared baking sheet.
• Bake 10 minutes in preheated oven. Remove from oven. Stir the oats. Return to the oven for additional 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from oven and place on wire rack. Cool completely.
• Add cocoa nibs to small skillet. Toast over low heat for several minutes to crisp and bring out chocolate flavor.
• Transfer granola and caramelized oats to serving bowl. Toss with sliced dried apricots, dried cranberries and toasted cocoa nibs.