Are you ready to whip up a tasty treat? My Maple Pecan Granola is crunchy, flavorful, and packed with healthy ingredients! This simple, step-by-step recipe uses rolled oats, pecans, and a hint of maple sweetness. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, in a bowl of milk, or just as a snack, you’ll love how easy it is to make. Let’s dive into the delicious details and get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Nutty: The combination of pecans and seeds creates a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of maple syrup.
- Healthy Ingredients: This granola is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, seeds, and nuts, making it a nutritious breakfast or snack option.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this granola in no time, making it a hassle-free addition to your meal prep.
Ingredients
List of Key Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
This recipe starts with the base of rolled oats. They give the granola its chewy texture. Next, we add chopped pecans. They add a rich, nutty flavor and healthy fats. Unsweetened shredded coconut brings a touch of sweetness and a delightful chew.
For some crunch, we mix in pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. Both seeds boost nutrition and add a nice crunch. A hint of cinnamon and a pinch of salt enhance all the flavors.
The magic happens with the wet ingredients. Melted coconut oil provides healthy fats and helps everything stick. Pure maple syrup gives that sweet, warm flavor we all love. Lastly, a splash of vanilla extract adds depth and rounds out the taste.
If you want to add a fruity touch, consider dried cranberries. They add a burst of color and sweetness. You can mix them in after baking. Enjoy making this granola with these wholesome ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Baking Sheet
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
– Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Stir well to mix all the dry ingredients together.
Combining Wet Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Make sure these ingredients blend well for a smooth mixture.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
– Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients.
– Toss gently with a spatula until everything is well coated. Enjoy the sweet smell of maple as you mix.
Baking the Granola
– Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes.
– Stir halfway through to ensure even baking. Look for a golden brown color and a nice aroma.
Cooling and Storing
– Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
– As it cools, it will harden into crunchy clusters.
– Once cool, break the granola into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Enjoy it for up to two weeks!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To get that ideal crunch in your granola, watch the baking time closely. Baking for 20-25 minutes works well, but check it halfway through. Stirring the granola helps it bake evenly. Spread it out thinly on the baking sheet to let the heat reach all parts.
Enhancing Flavor
You can boost the flavor by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. A touch of brown sugar or honey can add sweetness. You might also enjoy adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried apricots. They can make your granola even more exciting!
Serving Suggestions
Maple pecan granola shines with yogurt or fresh fruit. Try it with thick Greek yogurt for creaminess. You can layer it with berries or banana slices for a colorful breakfast. It also makes a great snack on its own or as a topping for desserts.
Pro Tips
- Storage Tip: Store your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and freshness for up to two weeks.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to swap out the nuts and seeds based on your preference or what you have on hand; almonds or walnuts work great too!
- Baking Tip: Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes; the last few minutes can quickly take it from golden to burnt.
- Serving Tip: Serve your granola with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for smoothie bowls for a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
Variations
Nut Free Version
If you want a nut-free granola, it’s easy to change. You can replace the chopped pecans with more seeds or dried fruits. Try adding extra pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch. Dried fruits like raisins or apricots can add sweetness. This way, you keep the flavor and texture while making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Grain-Free Alternative
To make a grain-free version, swap the rolled oats for grains like quinoa or puffed rice. Cooked quinoa gives a chewy texture. Puffed rice adds a light crunch. Both options keep the granola tasty without the oats. You can still enjoy the sweet maple flavor with these changes.
Sweetness Adjustments
You can adjust the sweetness in your granola. If you want less sugar, use less maple syrup. You can also try honey or agave syrup instead. Each sweetener brings a different flavor. Taste as you mix for the best balance that suits your liking.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, use an airtight container. This helps protect it from air and moisture. I recommend storing it in a cool, dark place like your pantry. If your home is warm, consider the fridge for extra freshness.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, your granola will stay fresh for about two weeks. This means you can enjoy its crunchy goodness without worry. For the best flavor and texture, try to eat it within this time frame.
Freezing Granola
You can freeze maple pecan granola for longer storage. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. When you want to enjoy it again, just take out the portion you need. Let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour before eating. This method keeps the granola tasty and crunchy.
FAQs
How do I make maple pecan granola gluten-free?
To make your granola gluten-free, start with certified gluten-free oats. Look for brands that clearly state this on the package. Many oats can be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing. Choose oats that have been tested and certified. This way, you can enjoy your granola without worry.
Can I add protein powder to the granola?
Yes, you can add protein powder! Use a neutral flavor to avoid changing the taste. Mix in a scoop of protein powder with your dry ingredients. This keeps the texture nice and crunchy. You can also blend it with the wet ingredients for a smoother finish.
Is maple pecan granola healthy?
Maple pecan granola offers many health benefits. Rolled oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. Pecans add healthy fats and protein. The maple syrup gives you energy without refined sugars. If you add dried cranberries, you get antioxidants too. This granola is perfect for a balanced breakfast or snack.
Where can I purchase high-quality maple pecan granola?
You can find great maple pecan granola at health food stores. Look for brands like Nature Valley or Granola Lab. These brands use high-quality ingredients. You can also buy granola online from sites like Amazon or Thrive Market. Just check the reviews for quality before you buy.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious maple pecan granola. We covered key ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds. We also shared step-by-step instructions for mixing and baking. Tips and tricks helped you achieve the perfect crunch and boost flavor. Variations allow for nut-free or grain-free options to fit any diet. For storage, always use an airtight container to keep granola fresh.
Making your granola lets you control the taste and nutrition. Enjoy your homemade granola with yogurt, or mix in your favorite fruits. It’s a simple way to enhance your meal
