If you’re looking for a crunchy and tasty snack, you’ve come to the right place! I am excited to share my Maple Pecan Granola recipe. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, pecans, and touches of maple syrup. You can enjoy it by the handful or sprinkle it on yogurt. Plus, making your own granola is easy and fun! Let’s dive into the tasty details of this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients Needed
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
To make your Maple Pecan Granola, gather these simple ingredients. You will need rolled oats as the base for that hearty crunch. Pecans give a rich, nutty flavor and a nice bite. Sunflower seeds add a fun texture and a bit of protein. Unsweetened shredded coconut enhances the granola’s sweetness without adding sugar.
Cinnamon brings warmth that pairs well with maple syrup. The salt balances the sweet flavors perfectly. Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener and binder, while melted coconut oil helps everything stick together. Finally, vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma and taste. If you like, toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise.
These ingredients create a flavorful and wholesome granola that you can enjoy any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will help the granola bake evenly.
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the granola from sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix everything together.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well-coated. This step is key for flavor.
Baking Process
1. Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Press it down slightly to help it clump.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir every 10 minutes to ensure even toasting. It’s ready when golden brown and fragrant.
3. Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This helps it firm up into clusters.
4. Once cool, stir in dried cranberries or raisins if you like. This adds a nice touch of sweetness.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Granola
Mixing wet and dry ingredients well is key. Start by blending the dry ingredients in a bowl. This helps ensure every bite has flavor. Next, whisk the wet ingredients until smooth. Pour this over the dry mix and stir well. You want everything coated evenly.
Baking time affects crunchiness. If you want a softer granola, bake for the shorter time. For extra crunch, aim for the longer bake time. Stir every 10 minutes to toast it evenly. The granola should turn golden brown.
Cooling is important for clumping. Once out of the oven, let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time helps it firm up. It also allows the granola to form clusters. If you want bigger clumps, press it down slightly before baking.
Storing Granola
For storage, choose an airtight container. This helps keep the granola fresh. Store it at room temperature. Avoid placing it in the fridge, as it can cause it to become soggy.
To keep granola fresh longer, use parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking. If you notice it losing crunch, try toasting it briefly in the oven. Just a few minutes can revive its crispness.
Variations
Flavorful Additions
You can change the taste of your granola by adding other nuts and seeds. Consider using almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds. Each nut brings its own flavor and crunch. You can also add chia or flax seeds for extra nutrition. These seeds boost fiber and omega-3 fat content.
Different sweeteners can change the taste too. While maple syrup is great, try honey or agave nectar. Each sweetener has a unique flavor. Honey adds a floral note, while agave syrup is milder. Experiment and find your favorite mix!
Health-Conscious Substitutions
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free oats. They work just as well as regular oats. Make sure to check the label for certification.
For a reduced sugar option, cut back on the syrup. You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas instead. These will still add sweetness but with fewer calories. You can enjoy your Maple Pecan Granola while still making smart choices!
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Breakdown
Each serving of this maple pecan granola has about 200 calories. This granola packs in great nutrients. You get fiber from oats and healthy fats from pecans and coconut oil. It also gives you energy to get through your day.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Maple syrup is more than just a sweetener. It has antioxidants that can help fight disease. It also contains minerals like zinc and manganese. These minerals support your immune system and bone health.
Pecans are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are rich in healthy fats that help your heart. Pecans also provide protein, fiber, and vitamins like vitamin E. This vitamin helps keep your skin healthy and youthful. Eating pecans can improve your overall health by lowering cholesterol and reducing inflammation.
This granola is not just tasty; it also helps you feel good!
FAQs
Common Questions About Maple Pecan Granola
How to make granola crunchy?
To make granola crunchy, you should mix the wet and dry ingredients well. This helps coat every oat and nut. When baking, spread the mix evenly on the sheet. Bake it low and slow at 325°F, stirring every 10 minutes. This way, it gets golden brown and crunchy.
Can I use different nuts in my granola?
Yes, you can use different nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work great. Each nut adds its unique flavor and texture. Just be sure to chop them roughly for even mixing. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste.
How long does homemade granola last?
Homemade granola lasts about two weeks when stored in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure it is in a good container to prevent freezer burn.
Making your own maple pecan granola is simple and fun. We covered the key ingredients and steps, helping you create a tasty breakfast. Remember to mix your wet and dry ingredients well for the best texture. You can personalize it with your favorite nuts and seeds. Store your granola properly to keep it fresh. Enjoy the health benefits of oats, maple, and pecans as you savor each bite. Start your day right with this homemade treat!
