Looking for a delicious and healthy breakfast option? My Maple Pecan Granola recipe is your answer! Packed with crunchy nuts and sweet maple flavor, this granola is simple to make and full of nutrients. In this post, I’ll share the easy steps to whip it up, plus some tips and variations to make it your own. Get ready to fuel your day deliciously!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Maple Pecan Granola
For my maple pecan granola, I use the following:
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Nutritional Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient brings great nutrition to my granola:
– Rolled oats provide fiber. They help keep you full and support digestion.
– Pecans are rich in healthy fats. They offer protein and antioxidants.
– Almonds add vitamin E. They help protect your cells from damage.
– Shredded coconut gives healthy fats and fiber. It adds a nice texture too.
– Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels. It also adds warm flavor.
– Salt enhances taste. It balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
– Maple syrup is a natural sweetener. It contains minerals like manganese.
– Coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides. They can boost energy.
– Vanilla extract adds flavor. It can lift your mood and enhance taste.
– Dried cranberries or raisins offer sweetness and antioxidants. They are chewy and tasty.
Suggested Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap ingredients based on your needs:
– Use oat flakes instead of rolled oats for a different texture.
– Swap pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a new flavor.
– Replace sliced almonds with pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
– Try sunflower seeds instead of shredded coconut for a nut-free option.
– Use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup for sweetness.
– Substitute olive oil for coconut oil if you prefer a different fat.
– Use fresh fruits like apples or bananas instead of dried cranberries for a fresh twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need:
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps your granola not stick. In a big bowl, mix the rolled oats, pecans, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well so everything is even.
Baking and Cooling Process
Now, let’s make the wet mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until every piece is coated well. Spread the granola on the baking sheet. Press it down gently. This helps it form clusters.
Bake the granola for 20-25 minutes. Stir it halfway through. You want it golden brown and smelling great. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will get crunchier as it cools.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, mix in the dried cranberries or raisins. For serving, you can use small mason jars or bowls. Drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top. Add fresh berries for a pretty touch. Enjoy this granola for breakfast, as a snack, or on your favorite yogurt.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Clumpy Granola
To get clumps in your granola, you must pack it well. When you spread the mixture on the baking sheet, press it down firmly. This helps the oats stick together. Use a spatula to press it down, making sure it’s even. Bake it until it’s golden. Stir it only halfway through baking to keep those clumps intact. The longer it cools, the crunchier it becomes.
Storing Your Granola for Maximum Freshness
Store your granola in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. A glass jar or a plastic container with a tight lid works well. Place it in a cool, dry spot. Avoid sunlight and heat to help it last longer. Proper storage helps maintain its taste and texture for weeks.
Using Granola in Other Dishes
You can use this granola in many ways. Try it as a topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls. It adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can also mix it into pastries or use it for energy bars. Sprinkle it on salads for a unique twist. The options are endless, making this granola a versatile ingredient in your kitchen.
Variations
Different Nut and Fruit Additions
You can customize your maple pecan granola by adding different nuts and fruits. Here are some options:
– Walnuts offer a rich flavor and healthy fats.
– Cashews add creaminess and a unique crunch.
– Hazelnuts bring a sweet taste and lovely texture.
– Chopped dried fruit, like apricots or figs, adds sweetness and chewiness.
Feel free to mix and match. Just remember to keep the total nut and fruit amount similar to the recipe.
Sweetness Adjustments with Other Syrups
If you want to change the sweetness, you can use other syrups. Here are some ideas:
– Agave syrup can work well if you want a milder taste.
– Honey gives a floral sweetness and pairs nicely with nuts.
– Brown rice syrup offers a thick texture and less sweetness.
Try using these options in the same amount as maple syrup, adjusting to your taste.
Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
You can easily make this granola gluten-free and vegan. Here’s how:
– For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats.
– To make it vegan, ensure your sweetener is plant-based, like agave or maple syrup.
These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this tasty treat without worry.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Granola
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers work great. Make sure to seal the lid tightly to block out air and moisture. Place it in a cool, dry spot, like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can make your granola go stale faster.
Shelf Life and Signs of Freshness
Homemade granola can last up to two weeks when stored properly. If you notice any change in smell or taste, it might be time to toss it. Fresh granola feels crunchy and smells sweet. If it feels soft or smells off, it’s best to discard it.
How to Revive Stale Granola
If your granola loses its crunch, don’t worry! You can easily fix it. Spread the stale granola on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir it halfway through to ensure even heating. This simple step will help bring back that delightful crunch you love.
FAQs
How long does homemade maple pecan granola last?
Homemade maple pecan granola lasts about two weeks. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. If you notice it getting soft, it may be time to toss it out.
Can I freeze maple pecan granola?
Yes, you can freeze maple pecan granola! Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
What is the best way to use maple pecan granola?
You can use maple pecan granola in many ways. Enjoy it as a snack straight from the jar. Add it to yogurt for breakfast. It also makes a great topping for smoothies. You can even sprinkle it on ice cream for a sweet crunch.
In this post, we explored how to make maple pecan granola. We discussed the key ingredients and their health benefits. You learned how to prep, bake, and store your granola. I shared tips for clumps and using granola in meals. We also covered variations and optimal storage practices.
Now you can enjoy fresh granola that suits your taste. Get creative with your recipes and enjoy the crunch!
