Get ready to enjoy a tasty treat with my easy homemade Maple Pecan Granola Clusters! This simple recipe uses wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, pecans, and pure maple syrup to make delightful clusters that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. You’ll love how quick it is to whip this up, and I’ll share tips to get those ideal crunchy bits. Let’s dive into making this delicious granola together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Gathering the right ingredients is key for making tasty Maple Pecan Granola Clusters. Rolled oats form the base and give a hearty texture. Chopped pecans add a nice crunch and rich flavor. Pumpkin seeds bring extra nutrients and a bit of variety.
Cinnamon gives warmth and a hint of spice. Salt balances the sweetness from the maple syrup. Pure maple syrup is a must for that sweet, sticky goodness. Melted coconut oil not only binds the mixture but also adds a hint of coconut flavor. The vanilla extract rounds it all off with a lovely aroma.
If you want a fruity touch, consider adding dried cranberries or raisins. They add sweetness and a chewiness that complements the clusters. With these ingredients, you set yourself up for a delicious and satisfying treat!
Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: About 200 calories
- Macronutrients:
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fats: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
The health benefits shine through in this recipe. Rolled oats are great for heart health and provide fiber. Pecans are full of healthy fats and antioxidants. Pumpkin seeds add protein and minerals like magnesium. Maple syrup, though sweet, also offers some vitamins and minerals.
This granola is not just tasty; it packs a nutritional punch! Enjoy it as a snack or a topping. It fits easily into a healthy diet while still being a treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven: First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is key for even baking.
2. Preparing the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
1. Combining dry ingredients in a bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans, and 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
2. Whisking together wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the liquids blend perfectly.
Baking Process
1. Spreading the mixture on a baking sheet: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until all oats and nuts are coated. Spread this mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Press down firmly to form clusters.
2. Baking time and stirring guidelines: Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to help with even browning. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
3. Cooling the granola clusters: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time helps the clusters stick together.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Clusters
To get those perfect clusters, you need to press down the mixture. When you spread the granola on the baking sheet, use your hands to pack it tightly. This helps the clusters stick together. If you skip this step, you might end up with loose granola. Also, avoid overbaking. Check your granola around 25 minutes. It should be golden brown and smell great. If it gets too dark, it can taste burnt.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices for more flavor. Cinnamon works great, but try nutmeg or ginger for a twist. You can also mix in different ingredients. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins add sweetness. For crunch, consider adding seeds like sunflower or chia. You can even toss in some dark chocolate chips after baking for a sweet treat.
Equipment Recommendations
The best mixing bowls are big and sturdy. A glass or stainless steel bowl works well for mixing. For baking, use a rimmed baking sheet. This helps keep everything in place. A silicone mat or parchment paper makes cleanup easy. Plus, it prevents sticking.
Variations
Alternative Nuts and Seeds
You can switch pecans for walnuts or almonds. Both nuts give a nice crunch. Walnuts have a rich flavor, while almonds add a subtle sweetness. If you’re looking for seeds, try sunflower or chia seeds. Sunflower seeds are nutty and fun. Chia seeds add a boost of nutrition. They also help bind the granola together.
Sweeteners and Flavorings
If you want to change the sweetener, honey or agave syrup works great. Honey gives a floral note, while agave syrup is milder. You can also play with different extracts. Try almond or coconut extract for a new twist. These flavors can really brighten up your granola.
Adding Fruits
Fresh or dried fruits can enhance your granola. For dried fruit, cranberries or raisins are fantastic. If you prefer fresh fruit, think about adding apples or bananas. Just chop them into small pieces. Using seasonal fruits can make your granola even more special. Fresh berries in summer or dried figs in fall can be delicious options.
Storage Info
Storing Granola Clusters
Store your maple pecan granola clusters in an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. Avoid using paper bags, as they let in air and moisture. Keep the granola in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent spoilage and keeps the clusters fresh.
Shelf Life
Your homemade granola clusters can stay fresh for about two weeks at room temperature. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Place the clusters in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure to label your container with the date.
Re-crisping Granola
If your granola loses its crunch, don’t worry! You can easily re-crisp it. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola on a baking sheet in a thin layer. Bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Let it cool before storing it again. Enjoy those crunchy clusters!
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats. However, quick oats may make your granola less chewy. They cook faster and can create a finer texture. Rolled oats give a heartier bite and better clusters.
How long will homemade granola last?
Homemade granola lasts about two weeks at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Just remember to thaw it before enjoying.
Can I replace coconut oil with another oil?
Yes, you can swap coconut oil for other oils. Olive oil or canola oil work well. Each oil will add a different flavor. Experiment to find your favorite.
Is it possible to make this granola nut-free?
Absolutely! You can leave out the pecans. Substitute them with more seeds, like sunflower or sesame seeds. This will still give you a tasty crunch without nuts.
How do I make my granola clusters more crunchy?
To achieve crunchier clusters, press the mixture firmly before baking. Bake until golden brown, but don’t overbake. Letting it cool completely on the baking sheet also helps the clusters firm up nicely.
This blog post covered how to make delicious granola clusters with simple ingredients. You learned about the key ingredients, health benefits, and easy steps for preparation. I shared tips to achieve perfect clusters and exciting flavor variations. Remember, storing your granola properly keeps it fresh and crunchy. Experiment with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy the process. Making your own granola can be fun and rewarding. You have everything you need to start creating tasty snacks at home.
