Are you ready to whip up a batch of crunchy and wholesome Maple Pecan Granola? This simple recipe combines oats, pecans, and a touch of maple syrup for a tasty snack or breakfast. Whether you’re new to making granola or a seasoned pro, my step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious blend that’s perfect for any time of the day. Let’s get started on this sweet and nutty adventure!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Gathering these ingredients is easy. You might find most in your pantry. Rolled oats provide a great base. They offer fiber and help with digestion. Pecans add crunch and healthy fats. Shredded coconut gives a tropical twist. Sunflower seeds pack in protein and vitamins. Maple syrup is the sweet star of this recipe. Coconut oil keeps everything together and adds richness. Vanilla extract enhances flavor, while cinnamon adds warmth. Sea salt balances the sweetness. If you like, toss in dried cranberries for a fruity touch. This blend makes a tasty and wholesome granola.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: About 200
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 27g
This granola is not just tasty; it’s good for you. Pecans are rich in antioxidants. They support heart health and brain function. Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness with minerals. Rolled oats help keep you full and satisfied. This mix is perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or on its own.
For the full recipe, check the details above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for getting that perfect crunch.
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.
3. In a big bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and sunflower seeds. Stir well so everything combines evenly.
Combining Wet Ingredients
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.
2. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth. This helps the flavors blend well.
3. If your coconut oil is too solid, heat it slightly. This helps it mix better with the other wet ingredients.
Baking Process
1. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula to stir everything together. Ensure all the dry ingredients get coated well.
2. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Keep it in a single layer for even baking.
3. Bake the granola for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir it every 10 minutes to promote even toasting. Watch it closely; you want it to turn golden brown and smell amazing!
After baking, let the granola cool completely on the sheet. It will become crunchy as it cools. Enjoy this crunchy and wholesome Maple Pecan Granola with yogurt or fruit for a tasty breakfast! For the full recipe, refer to the main section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Granola
To avoid burning your granola, keep a close eye as it bakes. Stir it every ten minutes. This helps it toast evenly and prevents dark spots. If you notice it browning too fast, lower the oven temperature by 25°F.
You can adjust sweetness and flavor by adding more maple syrup or spices. If you want it sweeter, try adding a bit more maple syrup. For a spicier flavor, add more cinnamon or even a dash of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Pair granola with creamy yogurt for a tasty treat. Add fresh fruits like berries or banana slices for a crunchy breakfast.
Granola also makes a great topping. Sprinkle it over your favorite desserts like ice cream or fruit salad. You can even add it to green salads for extra crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is over-mixing or under-mixing the ingredients. Too much mixing can break the oats. Not enough mixing means the syrup won’t coat everything well. Aim for a good mix without overdoing it.
If you want your granola to clump, make sure to press it down on the baking sheet. This helps it stick together as it bakes. You can also let it cool completely before breaking it apart.
For the full recipe, check out the main article above.
Variations
Flavor Modifications
You can change the flavor of your maple pecan granola in fun ways. Try adding different nuts like almonds or walnuts. Seeds like chia or pumpkin seeds add crunch and nutrition. You can also play with spices. Nutmeg or cardamom can give your granola a warm, cozy taste.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats. They taste just as good. For a sweeter touch without added sugar, use pure maple syrup or honey. You can even try agave syrup. These swaps keep your granola tasty and healthy.
Seasonal Flavors
Incorporating dried fruits is a great way to add variety. Dried apples or apricots can brighten your granola. During the holidays, you might enjoy adding spices like ginger or cinnamon. You can also blend in seasonal nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to make your granola festive. These changes make your granola fun and exciting all year long. For the full recipe, check the main section.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Granola
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, use an airtight container. This helps seal in the crunch. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. Your granola will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For the best taste and texture, eat it within this time frame.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze granola for a longer shelf life. To do this, pack the granola into a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Your granola can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This will help maintain its crunch.
Reheating Tips
If you want to enjoy warm granola, reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep it crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the granola soggy.
FAQs
How long does homemade granola last?
Homemade granola can last about two weeks at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Frozen granola can stay good for three months. Just thaw it on the counter before eating.
Can I make granola without coconut?
Yes, you can make granola without coconut. Substitute with more oats or nuts. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or flaxseed. These keep the texture crunchy and add nutrition. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.
Is maple pecan granola gluten-free?
Maple pecan granola can be gluten-free. Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure safety. Most other ingredients, like nuts and seeds, are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels for hidden gluten. This way, you can enjoy your granola worry-free.
How can I make granola clump together?
To make granola clump, use more liquid sweeteners. Maple syrup, honey, or agave work well. Mix the wet ingredients well and coat the dry ones evenly. Press the mixture firmly on the baking sheet before baking. This helps clumps form as it bakes.
What can I pair with granola for breakfast?
Granola pairs great with yogurt, milk, or smoothies. For yogurt, add fresh fruit on top. You can sprinkle it over oatmeal or use it in parfaits. Mix granola into your smoothie for a crunchy twist. Enjoy it however you like! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious maple pecan granola. We listed the key ingredients and walked through easy preparation steps. You learned how to bake it perfectly and avoid common mistakes. We also shared tips for serving and storing your granola, along with fun variations to try.
Remember, making granola is all about getting creative. Use what you love, and enjoy the process. With these steps, you can craft a tasty snack or breakfast that fits your needs. Happy baking!
