Looking for a delicious and healthy snack? Say hello to Maple Pecan Granola! This recipe is packed with crunchy oats, rich pecans, and a hint of sweetness from pure maple syrup. I’ll share the simple steps to whip up this nutritious delight, making mornings and snack times both tasty and wholesome. Get ready to satisfy your cravings in a healthy way! Let’s dive into the tasty details.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: This granola is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, making it a great source of energy and nutrients.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste preferences.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious granola in no time, perfect for busy mornings.
- Great for Meal Prep: This granola stores well in an airtight container, making it an ideal option for meal prep and quick snacks throughout the week.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
To make a great Maple Pecan Granola, gather these ingredients. The rolled oats serve as the base. They give a nice chewy texture. Chopped pecans add a sweet, nutty crunch. Unsweetened coconut flakes bring a hint of tropical flavor. Sunflower and pumpkin seeds boost the nutrients. They add healthy fats and protein.
Salt enhances the flavors. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice. Pure maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener. Melted coconut oil helps bind everything together. Lastly, vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. If you want extra sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 200 calories. It contains healthy fats from nuts and seeds. Granola also has fiber from oats and seeds. The sugar content comes mostly from maple syrup. This granola gives you a good amount of protein. Pecans and seeds are also rich in vitamins and minerals.
Eating granola provides several health benefits. Oats can lower cholesterol and improve gut health. Pecans supply antioxidants and support heart health. Coconut adds healthy fats, while seeds boost energy. This makes Maple Pecan Granola a tasty and nutritious choice.
Potential Substitutes
If you want to switch things up, try different nuts and seeds. Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts work well. For seeds, you could use chia or flaxseeds.
You can also change the sweeteners. Honey or agave syrup are good options. For oil, use olive oil or butter if you prefer. These substitutes keep the taste and texture great while catering to your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping and Measuring
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Measure 2 cups of rolled oats.
- Chop 1 cup of pecans.
- Measure 1/2 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes.
- Measure 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds.
- Measure 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds.
- Measure 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients: oats, pecans, coconut, seeds, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir until it mixes well.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until smooth.
Baking Instructions
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry mix and stir well.
- Spread the granola evenly on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Let it cool completely on the baking sheet to get crunchier.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Granola
To prevent burning, keep a close eye on the granola while it bakes. Set a timer for 10 minutes, then check it. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This helps it bake evenly. If you notice it getting too dark, take it out early.
For the right crunch, spread the granola in an even layer on the baking sheet. Avoid packing it too tightly. As it cools, it will become crunchier. Let it cool completely on the sheet. This step is key for achieving that perfect crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
You can enjoy granola in many ways. Mix it with yogurt for a tasty breakfast. Add it to smoothie bowls for extra crunch. You can even snack on it straight from the jar!
For a pretty presentation, use a clear glass jar or bowl. This way, you can show off the beautiful layers of oats and nuts. It makes serving more fun, too!
Storage Recommendations
To keep granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. A glass jar works well for this. Make sure it’s cool before sealing it up.
Granola lasts up to two weeks when stored properly. For the best taste, eat it within this time. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just remember to thaw it completely before eating!
Pro Tips
- Even Baking: Make sure to spread the granola evenly on the baking sheet to ensure uniform cooking and browning.
- Storage Tip: Keep your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and freshness for up to two weeks.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize your granola by adding different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to your taste preferences.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the granola while it bakes, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
Variations
Flavor Customizations
You can change the flavor of your granola easily. Adding chocolate chips can give it a sweet twist. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. Try using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness. Each sweetener will change the taste just a bit.
Dietary Adaptations
For gluten-free granola, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats. This option keeps your granola safe for those with gluten issues. If you want a vegan version, swap the honey for maple syrup. You can also skip the coconut oil and use another oil like canola or avocado oil.
Seasonal Variations
You can make holiday-inspired granola by adding spices like cloves or allspice. Dried fruits are great for this, too. In summer, mix in fresh fruits like blueberries or strawberries. They add color and a burst of flavor. You can even try adding tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a fun twist!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I make maple pecan granola without coconut? You can easily skip the coconut. Just replace it with more oats or nuts. This keeps the granola tasty and crunchy without losing texture.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats. They work well for granola. Just remember, they may take a bit longer to bake.
How long does homemade granola last? Homemade granola stays fresh for about two weeks if stored in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place for the best flavor.
Can I make this granola without nuts? Absolutely! You can leave out the nuts and add more seeds or dried fruits. This keeps it nut-free while still being delicious.
Additional Tips
Can I freeze granola? Yes, you can freeze granola. Just place it in a sealed bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
How can I make my granola more clumpy? To get clumps, press the granola down in the pan before baking. This helps it stick together as it cooks.
Health and Nutrition
Is granola healthy? Granola can be healthy. It has fiber from oats and nutrients from nuts and seeds. Just watch for added sugars in store-bought versions.
What are the health benefits of pecans? Pecans are great for heart health. They are full of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Eating nuts like pecans can help reduce bad cholesterol.
Where to Buy Maple Pecan Granola
Store-Bought Options
You can find many brands of maple pecan granola at stores. Some popular brands include Nature Valley, Kind, and Purely Elizabeth. These brands offer good choices, but their ingredients may vary. For example, Nature Valley granola often has added sugars. Kind granola tends to be low in sugars and high in protein. Purely Elizabeth uses organic oats and sweeteners. Prices range from $5 to $10 for a bag, depending on the brand and size. Always check the label for added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Online Shopping
You can also buy maple pecan granola online. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and Walmart offer many options. Buying in bulk can save you money. Look for deals on larger packages or subscribe-and-save options. This way, you will always have granola at home. Pay attention to shipping costs, as they can add to your total.
Local Markets
Finding local brands can be a fun adventure. Check out farmers' markets or local health food stores. These places often have fresh, homemade granola. You might discover unique flavors or ingredients not found in big brands. Ask store employees for recommendations. They can help you find the best local options. Supporting local businesses is good for you and the community.
This guide to making maple pecan granola covered everything from ingredients to tips. You learned how to mix, bake, and enjoy your granola. We explored options to customize flavors and cater to different diets. Remember to store your granola properly for the best taste. Homemade granola can be both fun and healthy. Now, go ahead and make your own tasty batch! Enjoy it your way, as a snack or with yogurt.
