Are you looking for a snack that is both healthy and delicious? Maple pecan granola fits the bill perfectly. I’ll walk you through simple steps to make this tasty treat at home. With easy-to-follow instructions and a list of nutritious ingredients, you’ll soon satisfy your snack cravings without the guilt. Let's dive into making your new favorite snack!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Nutty Flavor: This granola boasts a rich combination of pecans and pumpkin seeds, creating a satisfying crunch and a delightful nutty taste.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with rolled oats, coconut, and pure maple syrup, this recipe is packed with nutrients and free from artificial additives.
- Customizable Sweetness: You have the option to add dried cranberries or raisins, allowing you to tailor the sweetness to your personal preference.
- Versatile Snack: This granola can be enjoyed in various ways, from a wholesome breakfast to a nutritious on-the-go snack, making it a perfect addition to your diet.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Description of Each Ingredient
- Rolled oats: These form the base of our granola. They add texture and fiber.
- Pecans: These nuts add a rich flavor and healthy fats. They also give a nice crunch.
- Pumpkin seeds: Packed with nutrients, they add protein and a slight chewiness.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: This gives a tropical taste and a chewy texture.
- Pure maple syrup: This natural sweetener adds flavor and binds the granola together.
- Coconut oil: It helps to crisp up the granola and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract: This enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth to our granola.
- Fine sea salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Dried cranberries or raisins (optional): They add extra sweetness and chewy texture.
Nutritional Information
This granola offers a balance of nutrients. Each serving provides:
- Calories: About 200
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g (with optional dried fruit)
The mix of oats, nuts, and seeds makes this snack filling. It keeps you energized without heavy sugars. Enjoy it as a snack or a breakfast boost!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Baking Sheet
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, take a large baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper. This helps the granola not stick and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Next, grab a big mixing bowl. Add 3 cups of rolled oats. Then, toss in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans, 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Mix everything well. You want all the dry ingredients combined evenly.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil with 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup. Add 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to this mix. Whisk them together until smooth. This mixture adds flavor and sweetness to the granola.
Baking Process
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently. Make sure every bit of dry ingredient gets coated. Carefully transfer the granola mix to the lined baking sheet. Spread it out evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the mix to help it brown nicely. Keep an eye on it at the end to avoid burning. Once golden and fragrant, take it out. Let the granola cool on the sheet. It will crisp as it cools. If you like, fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins after it cools. Finally, store your granola in an airtight container for a tasty snack anytime!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Baking Time
Baking granola takes care and attention. I recommend setting your timer for 25 to 30 minutes. Check it halfway through, and stir it. This helps the granola brown evenly. The edges may cook faster, so keep an eye on them. When it turns golden brown, it's ready!
Ensuring Even Coating
To get a good coat, mix the wet and dry ingredients well. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients slowly. Use a spatula to fold it in gently. Make sure every oat and nut gets some syrup and oil. An even coat means better flavor!
How to Prevent Burning
Burnt granola is sad granola. To avoid this, watch it closely as it bakes. If you notice it browning too fast, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F. Stirring halfway helps too. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet, so it crisps up without burning.
Pro Tips
- Storage Matters: Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to swap the pecans and pumpkin seeds for your favorite nuts and seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, to create a personalized mix.
- Golden Brown Perfection: Keep an eye on your granola towards the end of the baking time; it can quickly go from golden brown to burnt in a matter of minutes.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your preference for sweetness; you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the nuts in your granola. Try almonds or walnuts instead of pecans. Both add a nice crunch and flavor. If you want a different seed, sunflower seeds work great too. For a fun twist, add some chocolate chips for a sweet treat. You can also use honey instead of maple syrup if you prefer.
Customizing Sweetness with Add-ins
If you like your granola sweeter, add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. These add natural sweetness without extra sugar. You can also mix in chocolate chunks or coconut flakes for extra flavor. For a spicier touch, add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to the mix.
Gluten-Free Options
To make your granola gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Many oats can have cross-contact with gluten. You can also replace the pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds or chia seeds. Both are gluten-free and add health benefits. Always check labels to make sure all ingredients are safe.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. Glass jars work well. You can also use plastic containers with tight lids. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. Avoid storing it near the stove or oven, as heat can spoil the granola.
How Long Does it Last?
When stored properly, your granola can last for up to two weeks. If you want it to stay fresh longer, consider freezing it. In the freezer, it can last for up to three months. Just make sure to seal it well before freezing.
Repacking for Freshness
If you notice your granola losing crunch, repacking it can help. Transfer it to a clean, dry container. You can also add a piece of bread or apple slices to help retain moisture. This method keeps your granola tasting fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts or seeds?
Yes, you can swap nuts or seeds. Try almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds. Each adds a unique flavor and crunch. Mixing different nuts can also enhance nutrition. Just keep the total amount similar to the original recipe.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use maple syrup and coconut oil. Both are plant-based. Avoid adding honey. You can also add vegan-friendly add-ins like dried fruits or seeds for more taste.
What if I don't have coconut oil?
If you lack coconut oil, try using vegetable oil or melted butter. These fats will still help bind the granola. However, coconut oil gives a unique flavor. If you can, use it for the best taste.
Can I add fresh fruit?
You can add fresh fruit, but it’s best after baking. Add sliced bananas, berries, or apples once the granola cools down. This keeps the fruit fresh and tasty. Fresh fruit also adds color and extra nutrition.
Is this a good source of protein?
Yes, this granola contains protein from pecans and pumpkin seeds. Nuts and seeds are great protein sources. Pair it with yogurt for an even better protein boost. This makes it a great snack or breakfast option.
This blog post covers everything you need to know about making a delicious treat. We explored the key ingredients, from their descriptions to their nutritional benefits. The step-by-step instructions guide you through each part of the process, ensuring success. I shared tips for perfecting your baking and creative variations for customization. Finally, I provided storage advice to keep your treats fresh. With these insights, you're ready to bake with confidence and make this recipe your own! Enjoy your cooking journey!
