Pumpkin Spice Granola

$- 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pumpkin puree - 1/4 cup maple syrup - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans and walnuts) - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) To make pumpkin spice granola, you need simple yet tasty ingredients. The rolled oats serve as the base. They give crunch and fiber. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and rich flavor. Maple syrup sweetens the mix and brings a nice shine. Chopped nuts like pecans and walnuts add healthy fats and crunch. Sunflower seeds bring extra protein and a nutty flavor. Shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and sweetness. Pumpkin pie spice gives that warm, cozy flavor we love. The vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and aroma. Salt is key to balancing flavors. Finally, dried cranberries or raisins can add a fruity touch, but they are optional. Using these ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy snack or breakfast option. Each bite is full of flavor and nutrition. This granola is easy to make and fun to eat! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Starting with the right temperature is key. Preheating the oven helps the granola cook evenly. Parchment paper prevents sticking. It makes cleanup easy, too. - Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl. - Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl. In a big bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir these together well. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step ensures that the flavors blend nicely. - Combine wet and dry mixtures. - Spread on the baking sheet and bake. - Let cool before adding dried fruit. Now, pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is coated. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to toast it evenly. Watch for a golden brown color and a warm smell. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely. It will crisp up as it cools. After cooling, add dried cranberries or raisins if you want. This makes a tasty snack! To make great granola, stir it while it bakes. This helps it toast evenly. I usually stir it every 10 minutes. It keeps the granola from burning on the edges. Also, make sure your wet and dry ingredients mix well. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the oats and nuts, then stir until everything is coated. This step is key for flavor in every bite. Serving granola can be fun! You can use jars for a rustic look. They make great gifts too. If you want a quick snack, serve it in bowls. Add a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This makes a tasty breakfast or snack. Plus, it looks beautiful! Pumpkin and oats are packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is high in fiber and vitamins. It’s great for your eyes and skin. Oats are good for your heart. They can help lower cholesterol. Nuts and seeds add healthy fats and protein. They keep you full and satisfied. This granola is not just tasty; it’s also good for you! Pro Tips Storage Tip: Store your granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy for longer. Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste preferences. Less Sweet Option: Reduce the amount of maple syrup for a less sweet granola that pairs perfectly with yogurt. Perfect Texture: Make sure to stir the granola halfway through baking to achieve an even golden brown color and crispiness. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your granola. A fun option is to add chocolate chips or yogurt-covered raisins. These treats give a sweet touch. You can also try different nuts or seeds. Almonds and pumpkin seeds work great. Each choice adds its own unique crunch and taste. If you want less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup. You can swap it for honey as well. Honey has a nice floral flavor that pairs well with pumpkin. Another idea is to use coconut sugar. It has a rich taste that adds depth to the granola. To celebrate the seasons, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices bring warmth and comfort to your granola. You can also include dried fruits like apricots or figs. They add chewiness and natural sweetness. These twists keep your granola exciting and fresh all year long. To keep your pumpkin spice granola fresh, use airtight containers. Glass jars work well. They keep out air and moisture. Zip-top bags are also a good option. Make sure to squeeze out any extra air before sealing. Store your granola in a cool and dry place. A pantry or cupboard is perfect. Avoid warm or humid areas. This helps maintain its crispness and flavor. Homemade granola lasts up to two weeks when stored correctly. After that, it may lose its crunch. Signs of spoilage include a stale smell or off taste. If it looks faded or has an odd texture, it’s best to toss it. You can freeze granola for longer storage. First, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track. Granola can last for up to three months in the freezer. To use frozen granola, take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. It’s ready to eat once it’s soft. You can also add it to yogurt or smoothies for a tasty treat! To make your pumpkin spice granola gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. You can also swap in seeds or puffed rice for oats if you want a different texture. Instead of regular nuts, consider using gluten-free nuts like almonds or pecans. Always check labels on packaged items to ensure they are gluten-free. Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Start by cooking the pumpkin. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it at 350°F until soft. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Once cooked, scoop out the flesh and blend until smooth. This gives a fresh taste to your granola. If you want to use a different sweetener, you have options! Honey works well in this recipe. You can also try agave syrup or brown sugar. Just remember that each sweetener has a different flavor, so choose one that you enjoy. You can make a tasty pumpkin spice granola with simple steps. We covered key ingredients, easy instructions, and helpful tips. Feel free to explore variations and enjoy the health benefits of each component. Remember, your granola can be personalized to suit your taste. Proper storage keeps it fresh for longer. Whether for breakfast or as a snack, this granola offers delicious flavor and nutrition. Dive in and enjoy all the tasty options!$

A delicious and healthy granola recipe infused with pumpkin and warm spices, perfect for breakfast or snacking.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 quarter cup maple syrup
1 half cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans and walnuts)
1 quarter cup sunflower seeds
1 quarter cup unsweetened shredded coconut
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 half teaspoon salt
1 half cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir well to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well-coated.
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. The granola should be golden brown and fragrant.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the granola cool completely. It will continue to crisp up as it cools.
Once cooled, stir in the dried cranberries or raisins if using.

Notes

Serve in jars for a rustic look or in bowls with yogurt and honey.

Keyword granola, healthy snack, pumpkin