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Maple Pecan Granola Clusters Easy Snack Recipe

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To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters, you need the following: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or your preferred dried fruit) These ingredients come together to create a tasty, crunchy snack. You can easily change some of these ingredients. If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower butter instead of almond butter. For sweetness, try honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Want to add flavor? Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. If you love different nuts, swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds. You can also use other dried fruits like raisins or apricots. These swaps keep the recipe fun and flexible. Each serving of these Maple Pecan Granola Clusters offers great nutrition. The oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. Pecans add healthy fats, supporting heart health. Coconut brings in healthy fats too, while sunflower seeds offer protein and vitamin E. Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants. This snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it as a wholesome snack or breakfast option! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is key for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the granola later. It also keeps your baking sheet clean. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups of rolled oats. Then, toss in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans. Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds. Stir all these dry ingredients together. Make sure they are mixed well. This helps each cluster have a good blend of flavors. Now, take another bowl. Whisk together 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup and 1/4 cup of almond butter. If you prefer, you can use peanut butter. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the texture is smooth and all ingredients are combined. This mixture adds sweetness and flavor. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until every piece is sticky and coated. This is important for forming clusters later. Once mixed, transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly and press down firmly. Use your hands or a spatula to create clusters. The more you press, the better the clusters will hold together. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola gently. This helps it brown evenly. You want it to be golden brown when done. Once baked, remove the sheet and let it cool completely. The granola will harden more as it cools. After cooling, break it into clusters and fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Store your granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy your tasty snack! To get those lovely clusters, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet. This helps them stick together. When mixing, make sure every ingredient is coated with the wet mixture. This ensures the clusters form well during baking. You can add more flavors easily. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Chocolate chips can add sweetness and richness. You can also use different dried fruits, like raisins or apricots, for a fun twist. Do not skip cooling the granola on the baking sheet. It hardens as it cools. If you stir too much during baking, the clusters may break apart. Lastly, be careful not to overbake; watch for that golden brown color. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your nuts and seeds are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Stale ingredients can make your granola taste bland. Experiment with Sweeteners: While maple syrup gives a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different taste profile. Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to adjust the dried fruits and nuts based on your preferences. Try adding chocolate chips or different seeds for a unique twist! Storage Matters: For optimal freshness, store your granola clusters in the refrigerator during warm months to prevent them from becoming too soft. {{image_4}} You can change pecans for other nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well. Each nut adds its unique taste and crunch. If you want a milder flavor, try hazelnuts. Mixing nuts can also boost nutrition. Aim for about 1 cup of nuts total. This flexibility means you can always find a nut you love. Maple syrup is tasty, but you can use other sweeteners. Honey or agave syrup can replace it. These sweeteners offer different flavors and sweetness levels. If you need a sugar-free option, try stevia or monk fruit. Remember to adjust amounts based on how sweet you want your clusters. Feel free to get creative by adding more ingredients. You can mix in seeds like pumpkin or chia seeds for extra health benefits. Dried fruit, such as apricots or raisins, adds sweetness and chewy texture. You could also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist. Just keep in mind to balance flavors and textures for the best results. To keep your Maple Pecan Granola Clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars work well, but plastic containers do too. Make sure the lid seals tightly. Store it in a cool, dry place, like a pantry. This helps maintain its crunch and flavor. Avoid exposing the granola to moisture. Dampness can make it soggy and spoil your tasty clusters. You can extend freshness by adding a few simple steps. First, let the granola cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container. Second, you can use silica gel packs. These absorb moisture and keep your granola crisp. Lastly, if you live in a humid area, store your granola in the fridge. It stays fresh longer in cooler temperatures. I love eating granola clusters in many ways. You can enjoy them plain as a snack. They also taste great with yogurt. Just add a dollop of yogurt in a bowl, then sprinkle clusters on top. For breakfast, serve granola with milk or non-dairy alternatives. You can add fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, for extra flavor. Get creative and explore different combinations! Maple Pecan Granola Clusters stay fresh for up to two weeks. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them crunchy and tasty. If stored correctly, they can last even longer. However, they may lose some crunch after a couple of weeks. Yes, you can make this recipe nut-free. Just replace the pecans and almond butter. Use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead. This way, you still get great texture and flavor. The clusters will still be delicious and satisfying. You can pair granola clusters with many things. They go well with yogurt or milk. You can also sprinkle them over oatmeal or smoothie bowls. For snacks, enjoy them on their own or with fresh fruit. They add a nice crunch and flavor boost to any meal. This post covered how to make tasty granola clusters with simple steps. You learned about the best ingredients, tips for success, and fun variations. Remember, perfecting your granola takes practice. Avoid common mistakes to make it even better. Store your clusters well for freshness. Enjoy them with yogurt or as a snack. Making granola is not just fun; it's rewarding. Now, you can create your healthy snacks and impress your friends. Happy baking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty snack that’s easy to make? Try my Maple Pecan Granola Clusters! These clusters are crunchy, sweet, and packed with flavor. They’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time. Join me as we dive into this fun recipe and explore tips and tricks to make it your own. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy Ingredients: This granola is packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, making it a wholesome choice for breakfast or snacks.
  2. Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
  3. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious granola clusters in no time!
  4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in an airtight container for a quick and easy breakfast or snack throughout the week.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters, you need the following:

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped

– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/4 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter)

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or your preferred dried fruit)

These ingredients come together to create a tasty, crunchy snack.

Optional Substitutions

You can easily change some of these ingredients. If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower butter instead of almond butter. For sweetness, try honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Want to add flavor? Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom.

If you love different nuts, swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds. You can also use other dried fruits like raisins or apricots. These swaps keep the recipe fun and flexible.

Nutrition Highlights

Each serving of these Maple Pecan Granola Clusters offers great nutrition. The oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. Pecans add healthy fats, supporting heart health.

Coconut brings in healthy fats too, while sunflower seeds offer protein and vitamin E. Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants.

This snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it as a wholesome snack or breakfast option!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet

First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is key for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the granola later. It also keeps your baking sheet clean.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups of rolled oats. Then, toss in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans. Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds. Stir all these dry ingredients together. Make sure they are mixed well. This helps each cluster have a good blend of flavors.

Combining Wet Ingredients

Now, take another bowl. Whisk together 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup and 1/4 cup of almond butter. If you prefer, you can use peanut butter. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the texture is smooth and all ingredients are combined. This mixture adds sweetness and flavor.

Forming Granola Clusters

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until every piece is sticky and coated. This is important for forming clusters later. Once mixed, transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly and press down firmly. Use your hands or a spatula to create clusters. The more you press, the better the clusters will hold together.

Baking Process and Tips

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola gently. This helps it brown evenly. You want it to be golden brown when done. Once baked, remove the sheet and let it cool completely. The granola will harden more as it cools. After cooling, break it into clusters and fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Store your granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy your tasty snack!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Clusters

To get those lovely clusters, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet. This helps them stick together. When mixing, make sure every ingredient is coated with the wet mixture. This ensures the clusters form well during baking.

Flavor Enhancements

You can add more flavors easily. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Chocolate chips can add sweetness and richness. You can also use different dried fruits, like raisins or apricots, for a fun twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not skip cooling the granola on the baking sheet. It hardens as it cools. If you stir too much during baking, the clusters may break apart. Lastly, be careful not to overbake; watch for that golden brown color.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your nuts and seeds are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Stale ingredients can make your granola taste bland.
  2. Experiment with Sweeteners: While maple syrup gives a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different taste profile.
  3. Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to adjust the dried fruits and nuts based on your preferences. Try adding chocolate chips or different seeds for a unique twist!
  4. Storage Matters: For optimal freshness, store your granola clusters in the refrigerator during warm months to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Variations

Different Nut Options

You can change pecans for other nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well. Each nut adds its unique taste and crunch. If you want a milder flavor, try hazelnuts. Mixing nuts can also boost nutrition. Aim for about 1 cup of nuts total. This flexibility means you can always find a nut you love.

Alternative Sweeteners

Maple syrup is tasty, but you can use other sweeteners. Honey or agave syrup can replace it. These sweeteners offer different flavors and sweetness levels. If you need a sugar-free option, try stevia or monk fruit. Remember to adjust amounts based on how sweet you want your clusters.

Adding Extra Ingredients

Feel free to get creative by adding more ingredients. You can mix in seeds like pumpkin or chia seeds for extra health benefits. Dried fruit, such as apricots or raisins, adds sweetness and chewy texture. You could also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist. Just keep in mind to balance flavors and textures for the best results.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Granola

To keep your Maple Pecan Granola Clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars work well, but plastic containers do too. Make sure the lid seals tightly. Store it in a cool, dry place, like a pantry. This helps maintain its crunch and flavor. Avoid exposing the granola to moisture. Dampness can make it soggy and spoil your tasty clusters.

How to Extend Freshness

You can extend freshness by adding a few simple steps. First, let the granola cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container. Second, you can use silica gel packs. These absorb moisture and keep your granola crisp. Lastly, if you live in a humid area, store your granola in the fridge. It stays fresh longer in cooler temperatures.

Ideal Serving Suggestions

I love eating granola clusters in many ways. You can enjoy them plain as a snack. They also taste great with yogurt. Just add a dollop of yogurt in a bowl, then sprinkle clusters on top. For breakfast, serve granola with milk or non-dairy alternatives. You can add fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, for extra flavor. Get creative and explore different combinations!

FAQs

How long do Maple Pecan Granola Clusters last?

Maple Pecan Granola Clusters stay fresh for up to two weeks. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them crunchy and tasty. If stored correctly, they can last even longer. However, they may lose some crunch after a couple of weeks.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe nut-free. Just replace the pecans and almond butter. Use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead. This way, you still get great texture and flavor. The clusters will still be delicious and satisfying.

What can I pair with granola clusters for breakfast or snacks?

You can pair granola clusters with many things. They go well with yogurt or milk. You can also sprinkle them over oatmeal or smoothie bowls. For snacks, enjoy them on their own or with fresh fruit. They add a nice crunch and flavor boost to any meal.

This post covered how to make tasty granola clusters with simple steps. You learned about the best ingredients, tips for success, and fun variations. Remember, perfecting your granola takes practice. Avoid common mistakes to make it even better. Store your clusters well for freshness. Enjoy them with yogurt or as a snack. Making granola is not just fun; it’s rewarding. Now, you can create your healthy snacks and impress your friends. Happy bakin

To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters, you need the following: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or your preferred dried fruit) These ingredients come together to create a tasty, crunchy snack. You can easily change some of these ingredients. If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower butter instead of almond butter. For sweetness, try honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Want to add flavor? Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. If you love different nuts, swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds. You can also use other dried fruits like raisins or apricots. These swaps keep the recipe fun and flexible. Each serving of these Maple Pecan Granola Clusters offers great nutrition. The oats provide fiber, which helps digestion. Pecans add healthy fats, supporting heart health. Coconut brings in healthy fats too, while sunflower seeds offer protein and vitamin E. Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants. This snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it as a wholesome snack or breakfast option! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is key for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the granola later. It also keeps your baking sheet clean. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups of rolled oats. Then, toss in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans. Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds. Stir all these dry ingredients together. Make sure they are mixed well. This helps each cluster have a good blend of flavors. Now, take another bowl. Whisk together 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup and 1/4 cup of almond butter. If you prefer, you can use peanut butter. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the texture is smooth and all ingredients are combined. This mixture adds sweetness and flavor. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until every piece is sticky and coated. This is important for forming clusters later. Once mixed, transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly and press down firmly. Use your hands or a spatula to create clusters. The more you press, the better the clusters will hold together. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola gently. This helps it brown evenly. You want it to be golden brown when done. Once baked, remove the sheet and let it cool completely. The granola will harden more as it cools. After cooling, break it into clusters and fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Store your granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy your tasty snack! To get those lovely clusters, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet. This helps them stick together. When mixing, make sure every ingredient is coated with the wet mixture. This ensures the clusters form well during baking. You can add more flavors easily. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Chocolate chips can add sweetness and richness. You can also use different dried fruits, like raisins or apricots, for a fun twist. Do not skip cooling the granola on the baking sheet. It hardens as it cools. If you stir too much during baking, the clusters may break apart. Lastly, be careful not to overbake; watch for that golden brown color. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your nuts and seeds are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Stale ingredients can make your granola taste bland. Experiment with Sweeteners: While maple syrup gives a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different taste profile. Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to adjust the dried fruits and nuts based on your preferences. Try adding chocolate chips or different seeds for a unique twist! Storage Matters: For optimal freshness, store your granola clusters in the refrigerator during warm months to prevent them from becoming too soft. {{image_4}} You can change pecans for other nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well. Each nut adds its unique taste and crunch. If you want a milder flavor, try hazelnuts. Mixing nuts can also boost nutrition. Aim for about 1 cup of nuts total. This flexibility means you can always find a nut you love. Maple syrup is tasty, but you can use other sweeteners. Honey or agave syrup can replace it. These sweeteners offer different flavors and sweetness levels. If you need a sugar-free option, try stevia or monk fruit. Remember to adjust amounts based on how sweet you want your clusters. Feel free to get creative by adding more ingredients. You can mix in seeds like pumpkin or chia seeds for extra health benefits. Dried fruit, such as apricots or raisins, adds sweetness and chewy texture. You could also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist. Just keep in mind to balance flavors and textures for the best results. To keep your Maple Pecan Granola Clusters fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars work well, but plastic containers do too. Make sure the lid seals tightly. Store it in a cool, dry place, like a pantry. This helps maintain its crunch and flavor. Avoid exposing the granola to moisture. Dampness can make it soggy and spoil your tasty clusters. You can extend freshness by adding a few simple steps. First, let the granola cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container. Second, you can use silica gel packs. These absorb moisture and keep your granola crisp. Lastly, if you live in a humid area, store your granola in the fridge. It stays fresh longer in cooler temperatures. I love eating granola clusters in many ways. You can enjoy them plain as a snack. They also taste great with yogurt. Just add a dollop of yogurt in a bowl, then sprinkle clusters on top. For breakfast, serve granola with milk or non-dairy alternatives. You can add fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, for extra flavor. Get creative and explore different combinations! Maple Pecan Granola Clusters stay fresh for up to two weeks. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them crunchy and tasty. If stored correctly, they can last even longer. However, they may lose some crunch after a couple of weeks. Yes, you can make this recipe nut-free. Just replace the pecans and almond butter. Use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead. This way, you still get great texture and flavor. The clusters will still be delicious and satisfying. You can pair granola clusters with many things. They go well with yogurt or milk. You can also sprinkle them over oatmeal or smoothie bowls. For snacks, enjoy them on their own or with fresh fruit. They add a nice crunch and flavor boost to any meal. This post covered how to make tasty granola clusters with simple steps. You learned about the best ingredients, tips for success, and fun variations. Remember, perfecting your granola takes practice. Avoid common mistakes to make it even better. Store your clusters well for freshness. Enjoy them with yogurt or as a snack. Making granola is not just fun; it's rewarding. Now, you can create your healthy snacks and impress your friends. Happy baking!

Maple Pecan Granola Clusters

A delicious and crunchy granola made with oats, pecans, and maple syrup, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1 4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 4 cup almond butter (or substitute with peanut butter)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 2 cup dried cranberries (or your preferred dried fruit)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, roughly chopped pecans, unsweetened shredded coconut, and sunflower seeds. Stir until evenly mixed.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  • Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly until all dry components are coated and sticky.
  • Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly to form clusters.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the sheet to form clusters.
  • Once cooled, break the granola into desired cluster sizes and fold in the dried cranberries.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Notes

For a rustic presentation, serve the granola in small bowls or mason jars. Enjoy it with yogurt for a wholesome breakfast.
Keyword breakfast, granola, healthy, snack

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