Maple Pecan Granola is your homemade ticket to crunchy, nutty goodness with a sweet maple twist. This recipe is perfect for cozy mornings or as a delightful snack throughout the day. Plus, it's super easy to whip up!
Old-fashioned oats provide the hearty base of this granola. Their thickness is ideal for achieving that desirable crunch.
Pecans, when roughly chopped, add a buttery, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup. They also give the granola a delightful texture.
Pure maple syrup sweetens everything naturally and imparts its unique flavor, making this granola a standout.
Coconut oil, when melted, helps bind the ingredients together and adds a slight hint of tropical flavor.
Vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Ground cinnamon brings a warm spice that complements the maple and pecans beautifully.
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Dried cranberries are added after baking for a chewy, tart contrast to the crunchy, sweet granola.
This Maple Pecan Granola is fantastic sprinkled over Greek yogurt with fresh berries. It also makes a perfect topping for vanilla ice cream or can be enjoyed simply with a splash of almond milk for a quick breakfast.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Trust me, this step is crucial for getting that perfect golden brown without burning the granola. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Give everything a good mix with your hands or a wooden spoon so the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified, meaning it looks like one smooth liquid.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure every oat and pecan piece is coated. This is what locks in the flavor and helps everything bake evenly.
Spread the granola mixture evenly onto your prepared baking sheet. Place it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through baking to promote even cooking and to prevent the edges from getting too brown.
Once the granola is golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step is what allows the granola to achieve its final crunchy texture. After it's cooled, mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries.
Finally, transfer your granola to an airtight container for storage, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
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