Looking for a healthy and simple snack? This Maple Pecan Granola packs a crunchy punch. I’ll show you how to make it using easy ingredients you can find at home. Perfect for breakfast or as a quick treat, this recipe is both tasty and satisfying. Join me as we dive into the steps to whip up your own batch of delicious granola. It’s time to enjoy meals that are good for your body and great for your tastebuds!
Ingredients
To make Maple Pecan Granola, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
– 1/2 cup almond slivers
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a crunchy, sweet, and healthy granola. The oats provide fiber, while the nuts and seeds add protein and healthy fats. The maple syrup gives it that delightful sweetness, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option. You can even customize it by adding your favorite dried fruits. I recommend checking out the Full Recipe for Maple Pecan Granola Delight to get all the details you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking granola. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps keep the granola from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped pecans, almond slivers, and pumpkin seeds. Stir these dry ingredients together. Make sure they are well mixed. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and crunch.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the pure maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Whisk these wet ingredients until smooth. This mixture adds sweetness and binds the granola together.
Baking the Granola
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to coat all the dry ingredients evenly. Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in an even layer. Bake it for 20-25 minutes. At the 12-minute mark, stir gently. This helps it bake evenly. Look for a golden brown color and a sweet aroma while it bakes.
Cooling and Clustering
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, the granola will become crisp. After it cools down, break it into clusters. If you want, fold in dried cranberries at this step for added flavor.
Storage Information
Transfer the granola to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Store it in a cool, dry place. Enjoy it with yogurt, fresh fruit, or as a snack. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for Perfect Granola
To achieve perfect granola, follow these simple tips. First, ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). This helps the granola bake evenly. Spread the mixture in a thin layer on the baking sheet. A thick layer may bake unevenly. Stir the granola halfway through the baking time. This promotes even browning. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. Granola can go from golden to burnt quickly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have. If you need a nut-free option, use seeds instead of nuts. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds work great. Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave nectar. If you want a different flavor, try using almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla. You can even add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Granola is super versatile! You can serve it in many ways. Try it with yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast. It makes a tasty snack on its own, too. For a fun dessert, sprinkle it on ice cream. You can also mix it into smoothies for added crunch. The options are endless, so get creative with your servings.
Variations
Nut-Free Maple Pecan Granola
You can easily make this granola nut-free. Just skip the pecans and almond slivers. Replace them with seeds like sunflower or hemp. This way, you keep the crunch but avoid nuts. The flavor from maple syrup and cinnamon still shines. It’s a great option for those with nut allergies.
Chocolate Chip Maple Pecan Granola
If you love chocolate, add some chocolate chips! After baking, sprinkle in your favorite dark or milk chocolate chips. Stir gently to mix them in without breaking the granola. The warm granola will melt the chips slightly, creating a delicious treat. This adds a sweet twist to the classic recipe.
Gluten-Free Options
To make this granola gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Most oats are naturally gluten-free, but some may cross-contaminate during processing. Always check the label. You can still enjoy this recipe while staying gluten-free. The taste and texture will remain delightful.
Feel free to customize your granola! You can find the full recipe in the previous sections. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients!
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Breakdown per Serving
Each serving of Maple Pecan Granola offers a wholesome balance of nutrients. Here’s what you get:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 6 grams
– Carbohydrates: 30 grams
– Fiber: 4 grams
– Sugars: 10 grams
– Fat: 12 grams
This granola packs energy and nutrition. It fuels your day without heavy ingredients.
Health Benefits of Granola Ingredients
The ingredients in this granola provide great health benefits. Here are some highlights:
– Rolled oats: They are rich in fiber. This helps lower cholesterol and supports heart health.
– Pecans: These nuts are full of healthy fats. They support brain health and provide antioxidants.
– Almonds: Almonds boost vitamin E levels. This vitamin helps keep your skin healthy.
– Pumpkin seeds: Packed with zinc, they support your immune system.
– Maple syrup: This natural sweetener has minerals like manganese. It provides energy without refined sugars.
– Coconut oil: It has healthy fats that can support your metabolism.
Each bite is not just tasty but also good for you.
Comparison with Store-Bought Granola
Homemade granola beats store-bought options in many ways. Here are some key points:
– Ingredients: You control what goes in. No hidden sugars or preservatives.
– Freshness: Homemade granola tastes fresh. Store-bought often lacks that true flavor.
– Cost: Making your own is often cheaper than buying it.
– Customizable: You can add or skip ingredients as you like.
This recipe gives you the freedom to create a healthy snack. For the complete guide, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How to Store Homemade Granola?
Store your homemade granola in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. You can use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. Avoid storing it in a warm place. A cool, dry pantry works best.
Can I Use Different Nuts or Seeds?
Yes, you can use different nuts or seeds! Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds all work well. Feel free to mix and match to your taste. Just keep the total amount similar to the original recipe. This way, your granola stays balanced.
What is the Best Way to Serve Maple Pecan Granola?
Serve your granola in a bowl with yogurt for a tasty breakfast. You can also add fresh fruit like berries or banana slices. Another option is to enjoy it as a snack on its own. It’s crunchy and satisfying!
How Long Does Homemade Granola Last?
Homemade granola lasts up to two weeks when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Just thaw and enjoy when you’re ready.
Where to Buy Maple Pecan Granola?
You can find maple pecan granola at many grocery stores. Check the cereal aisle or the health food section. If you prefer homemade, I recommend making it yourself for the best flavor.
Full Recipe for Maple Pecan Granola Delight
For the full recipe, refer to the recipe section above. It has all the details you need to make this delicious granola at home. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Making maple pecan granola is simple and fun. You need just a few ingredients and steps. Start with oats, nuts, and seeds. Mix in syrup and oil, then bake until golden. Homemade granola is easy to customize too. You can swap ingredients or add yummy chocolate chips.
In the end, you can know what’s in your food. This granola is tasty and healthy. Enjoy it in many ways or share it with friends. You made something special!
