Maple Pecan Granola Clusters

$- 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped - 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds - 1/3 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins To make maple pecan granola clusters, you need simple, wholesome ingredients. The main ingredients are rolled oats, pecans, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. These create a crunchy base full of good nutrients. The wet ingredients add flavor and sweetness. Pure maple syrup gives it that sweet touch. Coconut oil helps bind everything together and adds richness. Vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. Next, seasonings like sea salt and ground cinnamon balance the sweetness. Salt brings out the flavors, while cinnamon adds warmth. If you want a fruity twist, toss in dried cranberries or raisins. These add a chewy texture and extra sweetness. Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a delicious snack that’s both salty and sweet! - Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release. - In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, and pumpkin seeds. Stir well to mix the dry ingredients. - In a smaller bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ground cinnamon until it is smooth. - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently but thoroughly. Make sure all the oats and nuts are coated. - Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. - Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture down. Form clusters to help them stick together. - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. - Once golden brown and fragrant, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. - Break the cooled granola into clusters of your desired size. If using dried cranberries or raisins, stir them in now for added sweetness. - Store the granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To get the best granola, mix your dry ingredients well. This step helps every bite taste great. After mixing, press the clusters firmly. This action helps them stick together better during baking. When you press the mixture, it creates nice clusters. Cooling your granola is key. It helps the clusters firm up and become crunchy. Leave it on the baking sheet until it cools completely. For storage, use an airtight container. This way, your granola stays fresh for longer. It can last up to two weeks at room temperature. You can serve your granola clusters in many ways. One fun idea is to pair them with yogurt. They also work well as toppings for smoothies. For display, try a clear glass jar. It shows off the clusters nicely. You can drizzle more maple syrup on top for extra sweetness. {{image_4}} You can switch up the nuts in your granola. Walnuts and cashews work well. They add a new taste while still keeping the crunch. You can also mix in seeds like sunflower or chia seeds. These will boost nutrition and give your granola a fun twist. If you want to try something different, honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup. Both options add their unique flavor. You can adjust how sweet you want your granola, too. Taste it as you mix to find your perfect balance. Want to spice things up? Add some nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor. These spices can brighten the taste and make your granola special. You might also consider adding dried fruits like apricots or figs. They bring extra sweetness and chewiness to each bite. To keep your maple pecan granola clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars are great because they show off the clusters. You can also use plastic containers, but make sure they seal tightly. Store the granola at room temperature, away from heat and light. This keeps it crunchy and full of flavor. Your granola will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Check for any signs of spoilage, like a change in smell or texture. Refrigerating granola has some pros and cons. On the plus side, it can last longer in the fridge. But, it may lose some of its crunch. If you live in a hot climate, refrigeration might be a good choice. You can also refrigerate if you add fresh ingredients, like yogurt or fruit. However, for best texture, I recommend storing it at room temperature. If you want to keep your granola clusters for a longer time, freezing works well. To freeze, let the granola cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove any air to prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat it, take out what you need and let it thaw at room temperature. Freezing may change the texture slightly, making it a bit softer, but the flavor will remain. To make your granola crunchy, you need to bake it just right. Here are some tips: - Use enough oil: Coconut oil helps create that crunchy texture. - Press it down: After mixing, press the granola firmly on the baking sheet. - Bake at the right temperature: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for even browning. - Stir halfway through: This helps it brown evenly without burning. - Cool completely: Let it cool on the baking sheet. It will harden more as it cools. Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan. Here are some substitutes: - Coconut oil: Use any plant-based oil, like avocado oil. - Maple syrup: This ingredient is already vegan, so keep it! - Optional add-ins: If you want to add chocolate, use dairy-free chocolate chips. Leftover granola is super versatile. Here are some fun ideas: - Top your yogurt: Sprinkle it over yogurt for breakfast or a snack. - Mix into smoothies: Blend it into smoothies for extra crunch. - Use in baking: Add it to cookie dough or muffins for added flavor. - Create a parfait: Layer with fruit and yogurt for a tasty dessert. - Gift it: Put it in a jar with a ribbon for a homemade gift. You now have a simple and tasty granola recipe to try. We covered the main ingredients, detailed steps, and useful tips for perfecting your granola. You learned how to store it, explore variations, and clear up common questions. Granola is easy to customize and a healthy snack option. Enjoy it with yogurt or on its own. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a delicious treat that’s fresh and homemade. So, get cooking and have fun experimenting with your own flavors!$

Indulge in the delicious crunch of homemade Maple Pecan Granola Clusters! This easy recipe combines wholesome oats, pecans, almonds, and a touch of maple syrup for a delightful snack or breakfast. Perfectly baked to golden perfection and easily customizable with your favorite dried fruits, these clusters are nutritious and fun to make. Click to explore the full recipe and treat yourself to a healthy delight! #GranolaRecipe #HealthySnacks #MaplePecan #BreakfastIdeas

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Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup pecans, roughly chopped

1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped

1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

1/3 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release for the granola after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, and pumpkin seeds. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure an even blend of dry ingredients.

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the sticky mixture.

Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, creating an even layer. Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture down firmly to form clusters, which will help them stick together during baking.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through the baking time for even browning, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. Remember, the granola will harden further as it cools.

After cooling, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. If you are using dried cranberries or raisins, stir them into the mixture now for a chewy texture and a touch of sweetness.

Store the granola clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for optimum freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8-10

- Presentation Tips: Serve your granola clusters in a clear glass jar for a beautiful display. Drizzle with extra maple syrup or sprinkle with additional nuts for a festive touch! Enjoy with yogurt or as a topping for smoothies for an extra nutritious boost.