Maple Pecan Granola

Name: Maple Pecan Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 cups
Ingredients: 3 cups rolled oats; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Table Classics

When I first experimented with homemade granola, I was amazed at how easily I could customize it to suit my tastes. This Maple Pecan Granola is a delightful blend of warm maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and wholesome oats. It's perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack on the go. I love how I can control the sweetness and add my favorite nuts and seeds. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen while it's baking is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and you'll never go back to store-bought granola!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:05:36.520Z

As I whipped up this Maple Pecan Granola for the first time, I was captivated by how the simple combination of oats, nuts, and maple syrup could create such a delightful breakfast staple. I toasted the pecans lightly, enhancing their flavor to make each bite even more satisfying. A key tip I learned is to ensure the granola is spread evenly on the baking sheet, allowing for uniform baking and perfect crispiness.

In my journey of granola making, I found that allowing the granola to cool completely before breaking it into clusters helps maintain its crunchiness. This recipe not only fills the house with a wonderful aroma but offers a nutritious and satisfying way to start the day. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or even on its own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A deliciously crunchy texture that satisfies your crunch cravings
Natural sweetness from maple syrup, making it a healthier choice
Customizable with your favorite nuts and dried fruits for added flavor

Customizing Your Granola

One of the most exciting aspects of making your own granola is the ability to tailor it precisely to your preferences. While this Maple Pecan Granola is a wonderful base, you can enhance it with various nuts and dried fruits. Consider adding dried cranberries, blueberries, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Alternatively, if you prefer a touch of saltiness, swap in some salted nuts for a delightful contrast. Just remember to adjust the syrup quantity accordingly if you add sweetened ingredients.

For an extra boost of flavor, experiment with spices beyond cinnamon. Nutmeg, ginger, or even pumpkin spice can complement the maple syrup beautifully. Each spice adds its unique character, giving you a new flavor profile in every batch. Next time you make this granola, try tossing in some chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrition without altering the taste significantly.

Baking Tips for Perfect Granola

Achieving the perfect granola texture takes a little finesse. When you spread the oat mixture on the baking sheet, ensure it's laid out in a thin, even layer. If it's too thick, it may not bake evenly and could come out chewy instead of crunchy. Keep an eye on it while baking, as oven temperatures can vary. Look for a golden hue around the edges, and stir at the halfway point to ensure even browning.

Once your granola is done baking, resist the urge to touch it immediately. Letting it cool fully will help it harden into delightful clusters. If you prefer larger clumps, leave the mixture undisturbed until completely cool, as this helps it hold together. Breaking it apart too soon may result in crumbly bits rather than the desired clusters.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this wholesome granola recipe!

Granola Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your homemade granola.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, sea salt, and cinnamon. Mix until all ingredients are well coated.

Spread and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.

Cool and Store

Once baked, let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into clusters. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Maple Pecan Granola as a snack, breakfast, or topping!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to create your perfect blend. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of nuts in your granola is more than just a matter of taste; it greatly influences the texture and nutritional profile. Pecans bring a rich, buttery flavor, but other nuts like almonds or walnuts can provide different textures and health benefits. You can also use nut butters in place of oil for a creamier texture and a protein boost, allowing for an even more decadent granola. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness as needed, depending on the nut butter’s flavor.

Maple syrup not only provides natural sweetness but also adds moisture, which is crucial for binding the granola together. If you’re in a pinch, agave syrup or honey can be used as alternatives; however, keep in mind that honey will add a distinct flavor profile and change the overall sweetness level, so taste as you go to find the right balance.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storing your granola properly is key to maintaining its crunch and freshness. Always allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you store it in a cool, dry place, it can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep your granola longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe bag. Just be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn; it can last for up to three months this way.

For a convenient serving option, consider portioning out your granola into small snack bags. This way, you can easily grab a handful on busy mornings or whenever you need a quick, healthy snack. Pair it with yogurt, sprinkle it over smoothie bowls, or enjoy it with milk for a satisfying breakfast any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts would work perfectly.

→ How long can I store the granola?

In an airtight container, it should last up to two weeks.

→ Can I make this granola vegan?

Yes, just ensure the maple syrup is the only sweetener used, and the coconut oil is plant-based.

→ What can I add to the granola for extra flavor?

Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries, or even seeds like chia or flax for added nutrients.