Maple Pecan Granola
Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes
I love making my own granola because it’s so easy and satisfying! This Maple Pecan Granola recipe is a perfect blend of crunchy oats and sweet maple syrup, highlighted with the rich flavor of toasted pecans. It makes for a delightful breakfast or a healthy snack. Every time I prepare this granola, the kitchen fills with such a warm, nutty aroma, reminding me of cozy mornings. Plus, I can customize it easily with my favorite nuts and dried fruits, making it my ideal breakfast staple.
When I first decided to make homemade granola, I was surprised at how simple it was! Using maple syrup not only enhances the flavor but also acts as a natural sweetener, making my granola healthier than store-bought options. The key is to bake it at a low temperature, which ensures an even, golden brown finish without burning.
One detail I learned is to let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet; this helps it cluster together beautifully, giving it that satisfying crunch. I love pairing it with yogurt or using it as a topping for smoothie bowls!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously sweet with a hint of maple flavor
- Nutty pecans add richness and crunch
- Versatile - perfect for breakfast, snacks, or toppings
Understanding Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Maple Pecan Granola plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Rolled oats are the base, providing a hearty structure and chewy texture. When combined with the maple syrup, they absorb the sweetness and create a delightful chewiness. Opt for high-quality maple syrup to enhance the flavor profile; the depth of taste will significantly elevate the granola compared to using imitation syrups.
Pecans not only add a rich, buttery flavor but also contribute healthy fats and protein, making this granola a more filling snack. Toasting the pecans slightly before adding them can enhance their flavor even further, bringing out their natural oils. If you're looking for a variation, you can substitute walnuts or almonds, but be mindful that these will introduce different flavor nuances.
Baking Tips
When baking the granola, keeping a close eye on it during the last few minutes is crucial. The granola goes from perfectly golden to overly dark quickly. Look for a lovely golden color and aromatic wafts of nutty fragrance—this is your cue to take it out of the oven. Stirring halfway through not only allows for even browning but also helps prevent any bits from burning at the edges.
If you prefer a clumpier texture, let the granola cool on the baking sheet without stirring. As it cools, it will harden and form clusters, creating the perfect topping for yogurt or a snack on its own. Experiment with the baking time; for a crunchier texture, you can extend the baking for an additional 5 minutes, but make sure to monitor regularly.
Ingredients
Maple Pecan Granola Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
Mix and match with your favorite nuts or spices!
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until all the oats and nuts are well coated.
Bake the Granola
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking until golden brown.
Cool and Store
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Enjoy your homemade granola with milk, yogurt, or on its own!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with other nuts or spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to customize your granola blend.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This granola is excellent for meal prep! You can make a large batch on the weekend and store it in an airtight container to enjoy throughout the week. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, but I recommend consuming it within the first week for the best texture. If you notice it starting to lose its crunch, a quick toast in the oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes will rejuvenate it.
If you want to extend its shelf life, you could also freeze portions of the granola. Use freezer-safe bags and remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the oven to warm up and revive the texture.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Pecan Granola is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a standalone snack, or add it to your breakfast routine by serving it with yogurt and fresh fruit. For a more indulgent treat, layer it with whipped cream or serve it over ice cream for a boozy sundae at night. You can also sprinkle it on smoothie bowls for extra texture and crunch before diving in.
Feel free to customize your granola by experimenting with different dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or even tropical fruits like mango or pineapple. These can add unexpected flavor bursts and a chewy texture, balancing the crunch of the pecans and oats beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts in this granola?
Absolutely! Mix in almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for more variety.
→ How should I store my granola?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
→ Is it possible to make this granola gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the granola is gluten-free.
→ Can I add chocolate chips?
Definitely! Stir in mini chocolate chips after baking while the granola is still warm.
Maple Pecan Granola
I love making my own granola because it’s so easy and satisfying! This Maple Pecan Granola recipe is a perfect blend of crunchy oats and sweet maple syrup, highlighted with the rich flavor of toasted pecans. It makes for a delightful breakfast or a healthy snack. Every time I prepare this granola, the kitchen fills with such a warm, nutty aroma, reminding me of cozy mornings. Plus, I can customize it easily with my favorite nuts and dried fruits, making it my ideal breakfast staple.
Created by: Harriet Bloom
Recipe Type: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Maple Pecan Granola Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until all the oats and nuts are well coated.
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Extra Tips
- Experiment with other nuts or spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to customize your granola blend.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 5g