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To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters, you need these ingredients: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, chopped - 1/2 cup almonds, chopped - 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional) Each of these items plays an important role in flavor and texture. The oats form the base. Pecans and almonds add crunch and healthy fats. Coconut flakes bring a light sweetness. Cinnamon gives warmth and depth. Salt enhances all the flavors. Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener and binder. Coconut oil helps to crisp the granola. Vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. Dried cranberries add a tart touch if you choose to include them. This tasty granola is not just delicious; it is also nourishing. Each serving has: - Calories: 250 - Protein: 5g - Carbohydrates: 30g - Dietary Fiber: 4g - Sugars: 9g - Fat: 13g - Saturated Fat: 8g These values can change based on your ingredient choices. For example, if you skip the cranberries, you can lower the sugar content. This granola provides energy and keeps you full, making it a smart breakfast or snack choice. If you need alternatives, I have some great options. - Rolled oats: You can use quick oats or gluten-free oats if you prefer. - Pecans: Walnuts or hazelnuts work well if you want a different nut. - Almonds: Try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. - Coconut flakes: Omit them or use other dried fruits for a different texture. - Maple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes. - Coconut oil: Use vegetable oil or butter if you like. These substitutes allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. Feel free to mix and match as you like! 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps get a nice crunch. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the granola from sticking. 3. In a large bowl, mix together: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, chopped - 1/2 cup almonds, chopped - 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt This mix gives great flavor and texture. 4. In another bowl, whisk together: - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract This adds sweetness and moisture. 5. Pour the wet mix over the dry ingredients. Stir well to coat everything. 6. Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Pack it down tightly. This helps form those tasty clusters. 7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even baking. Look for a golden brown color. Avoid burning by watching closely. 8. When done, take it out and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will harden while cooling. 9. Once cool, break it into clusters. If you like, mix in 1/2 cup dried cranberries. 10. Store your granola clusters in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks. To get those crunchy clusters, pack the mixture tightly on the baking sheet. When you press it down, it helps the granola stick together. Also, bake it at 350°F. Stir it halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn't burn. The golden color means it's ready. Let it cool completely on the sheet. It will harden as it cools, forming nice clusters. One common mistake is not packing the granola tightly. If you do this, your clusters will fall apart. Another mistake is baking at too high a temperature. This can lead to burnt granola. Always use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step. It’s crucial for keeping those clusters intact. To make this granola gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Check labels on all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. For a vegan option, use maple syrup and coconut oil, which are both plant-based. You can also skip the dried cranberries or use a vegan version of dried fruit. This way, everyone can enjoy your tasty treat! {{image_2}} You can boost the taste of your Maple Pecan Granola Clusters easily. Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. A bit of cocoa powder can add a chocolate twist. For a fruity flavor, mix in freeze-dried berries right before baking. Each option gives a new layer to the taste. Feel free to change up the nuts and seeds. Walnuts, cashews, or hazelnuts can work well too. You can also toss in pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch and nutrition. Mixing different nuts brings a fun texture and flavor. Just keep the total to about one and a half cups to maintain the balance. If you want to swap the maple syrup, there are great options. Honey or agave syrup can serve as good substitutes. For a sugar-free choice, use mashed bananas or applesauce. Each sweetener can change the flavor profile slightly, so try them out to find your favorite. To keep your maple pecan granola clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight. This protects the clusters from moisture and keeps them crunchy. You can also use vacuum-sealed bags for extra protection. When stored correctly, your granola can last for up to two weeks. For the best taste, eat it within the first week. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it may be time to toss it. Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage, like odd smells or mold. If your granola goes stale, don’t worry! You can easily revive it. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the stale granola on a baking sheet. Bake for about 5-10 minutes. This gentle heat will help restore its crunch. Let it cool before storing it again. Enjoy your tasty clusters once more! Yes, you can make these clusters ahead of time. They store well. After baking and cooling, place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to two weeks. This makes them a great snack for busy days. To help your clusters stick, pack the mixture tightly on the baking sheet. Press it down firmly before baking. The heat helps the mixture bond. Make sure to let them cool completely on the sheet. This step is key for forming nice clusters. You can enjoy these clusters in many ways. Try them with yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast. They also make a great snack on their own. You can sprinkle them on top of salads for extra crunch. Mix them into trail mix for an energy boost. The options are endless! This blog post covered key areas for making Maple Pecan Granola Clusters. We detailed ingredients, explained preparation steps, and provided useful tips. You learned how to avoid common mistakes and make tasty variations. Storing and reviving stale granola were also discussed. In summary, these guidelines help you create delicious clusters easily. Try the tips and enjoy your granola in many ways. You’ll love the taste and texture of your homemade snack. Happy baking!

Maple Pecan Granola Clusters

Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Maple Pecan Granola Clusters! This easy recipe combines rolled oats, crunchy pecans, and sweet maple syrup for a healthy snack or breakfast. Perfect for on-the-go energy, these clusters are packed with flavor and nutrients. Dive into the simple steps to create your own batch and enjoy them fresh from the oven. Click to explore the recipe and more tasty ideas! #GranolaClusters #HealthySnacks #MaplePecan #RecipeIdeas
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup pecans, chopped

1/2 cup almonds, chopped

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, coconut flakes, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients evenly.

      In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

        Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until all the dry ingredients are coated with the syrup mixture.

          Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single even layer, packing it down tightly to help form clusters.

            Bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

              Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will harden as it cools.

                Once cooled, break into clusters and mix in dried cranberries if using.

                  Store the granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

                    Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Servings: 8