Looking for a quick, delicious breakfast? Maple Pecan Granola is the answer! This crunchy blend of oats, nuts, and sweet maple flavor will fuel your day. It’s simple to make at home, fill it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy it your way. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients! Let’s dive into the easy steps and tips to whip up this tasty granola. Your mornings will never be the same!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Maple Pecan Granola
To make tasty maple pecan granola, you need these main ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– ½ cup sunflower seeds
– ½ cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
– ½ cup maple syrup
– ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
These ingredients work together to create a crunchy and sweet breakfast. The oats serve as the base. They provide fiber and texture. The pecans add a rich, nutty flavor. Sunflower seeds give a nice crunch, while coconut flakes add a hint of tropical taste.
Optional Add-ins and Enhancements
You can also add these optional items to your granola:
– ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
These dried fruits bring extra sweetness and chewiness. You can mix in other options too, like chocolate chips or different nuts. Feel free to get creative!
Nutritional Information Breakdown
This granola is not just tasty; it’s good for you too. Here’s a simple breakdown:
– Calories: About 200 per serving
– Protein: 4 grams
– Fat: 10 grams (mostly healthy fats)
– Carbohydrates: 30 grams
– Fiber: 3 grams
This granola gives you energy to start your day. It has healthy fats from nuts and seeds. The fiber helps keep you full longer. Enjoy it with yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– ½ cup sunflower seeds
– ½ cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
– ½ cup maple syrup
– ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Once you have everything, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps your granola not stick.
Mixing and Baking Process
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, coconut flakes, cinnamon, and salt together. Stir until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, whisk the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and blended.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until every piece is coated. This ensures all flavors blend well.
Spread the granola on your prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even baking. Watch it closely to avoid burning.
Cooling and Storage Tips
After baking, take it out and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time helps the granola become crispy. Once cooled, you can mix in dried cranberries or raisins if you like.
Store your granola in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Enjoy it with yogurt and fresh fruit for a tasty breakfast!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfectly Crispy Granola
To get crunchy granola, follow a few simple steps. First, spread the mixture on the baking sheet in one even layer. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp every part. Next, stir the granola halfway through baking. This helps it brown evenly. Watch it closely in the last few minutes. You want it golden, not burnt. Lastly, let it cool completely on the sheet. Cooling helps it firm up and become crispy.
Substitutions for Common Allergens
If you have allergies, you can easily swap some ingredients. For nuts, try seeds like pumpkin or more sunflower seeds. This keeps the crunch without nuts. For coconut, you can leave it out completely. If you cannot use maple syrup, agave syrup or honey works well. Make sure the substitute fits your diet. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Granola is versatile and tasty! You can serve it with yogurt and fresh fruit. Try berries or sliced bananas for a sweet touch. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup on top for extra flavor. For a snack, enjoy it plain or with milk. You can even sprinkle it on salads for added crunch. Be creative and mix it up!
Variations
Different Nut and Seed Options
You can change the nuts and seeds in your granola. Try walnuts, almonds, or pistachios. Each option brings its own flavor. For seeds, consider pumpkin or chia seeds. These will add crunch and nutrients. Mixing different nuts and seeds keeps your granola exciting.
Flavor Variations (e.g., chocolate, spices)
You can add different flavors to your granola. Adding cocoa powder gives a nice chocolate taste. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or ginger. For a sweeter touch, try adding a pinch of brown sugar. You can even sprinkle in some vanilla bean or almond extract. These small changes can make your granola unique.
Maple Pecan Granola Bars Recipe
To make granola bars, follow the same steps but with a twist. Add 1/2 cup of nut butter to the wet mix. This helps hold the bars together. After baking, press the mixture into a lined baking dish. Let it cool, then cut into bars. These bars are great for a quick snack or breakfast on the go.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Granola
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Store it in a cool, dry place. This prevents moisture from making the granola soggy. Avoid areas near the stove or oven, as heat can spoil the granola faster.
Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
When stored properly, your granola can last up to two weeks. After that, it may lose its crispness. Check for any signs of moisture or off smells before eating. If it smells stale or feels soft, it’s best to toss it. Keeping the granola fresh helps maintain its great taste.
Freezing Your Granola for Longevity
You can freeze your granola for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Granola can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature before eating.
FAQs
Can I use regular syrup instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use regular syrup. However, it will change the flavor. Maple syrup gives a rich, sweet taste. If you prefer a light flavor, use corn syrup or agave. Keep in mind that these options are not as healthy as maple syrup.
How can I make this granola vegan?
To make it vegan, use plant-based ingredients. Substitute coconut oil for a vegan butter. Also, ensure your syrup is pure and from a vegan source. You can skip the optional dried cranberries or use vegan-friendly options. This way, you keep it tasty and plant-based.
What are the health benefits of maple pecan granola?
Maple pecan granola offers several health benefits. Here are a few:
– Fiber: Rolled oats are high in fiber. This supports digestion and keeps you full.
– Healthy Fats: Pecans provide healthy fats. They are good for your heart.
– Vitamins: Coconut flakes add vitamins and minerals. They help boost your immune system.
– Natural Sweetener: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener. It has antioxidants and fewer chemicals than refined sugars.
This granola is not just tasty; it also supports a balanced diet. Enjoy it with yogurt or milk for extra nutrition.
This article covered how to make delicious maple pecan granola at home. We explored ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect granola. You can experiment with flavors and add-ins to suit your taste. Storing granola properly can keep it fresh longer. Remember, making this granola can be fun and rewarding. Now, enjoy your tasty treat!
