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For this Maple Apple Pecan Granola, you will need: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped - 1 cup dried apples, diced - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt These ingredients create a sweet and nutty flavor that is hard to resist. The oats serve as a great base, while the pecans add a nice crunch. The dried apples bring a fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with maple syrup. You can enhance your granola with these optional ingredients: - 1/2 cup sunflower seeds - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips Adding sunflower seeds gives your granola an extra crunch. If you love chocolate, the mini chocolate chips add sweetness and richness. This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings. Each serving contains: - Calories: Approximately 200 - Protein: 4g - Carbohydrates: 25g - Fat: 10g - Fiber: 3g This granola packs a healthy punch! It offers fiber from oats and healthy fats from nuts. Enjoy it as a snack or breakfast to keep you full and energized. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for getting the granola crispy. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy later. In a big mixing bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans, and 1 cup of diced dried apples. If you like a crunch, include 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix until everything is well combined. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This blend adds sweetness and richness to your granola. Now, pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Stir well to coat all the dry bits with the syrup mix. This step is important for even flavor throughout the granola. Transfer the granola mixture to your lined baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, ensuring it cooks evenly and browns nicely. A thin layer helps achieve that perfect crunch. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through to ensure it turns a uniform golden brown. Once baked, take it out and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Cooling helps the granola become crispy. If you want, mix in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips after it cools for added sweetness. To get the best texture, focus on the bake time. Bake your granola until it turns golden brown. This helps it to get crispy. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This step ensures even cooking and prevents burning. After baking, let it cool on the sheet. This cooling step is key to achieving that delightful crunch. You can swap out some ingredients if needed. For the nuts, try walnuts or almonds. Instead of dried apples, use raisins or cranberries. If you want a different sweetener, honey works well too. For oil, you can use butter or even applesauce for a lighter option. Make this granola your own! Add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor. You can mix in seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition. Want a sweeter treat? Fold in some dried cherries or chocolate chips after baking. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative! Pro Tips Storage Matters: Store your granola in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness and freshness for up to two weeks. Customize Your Mix: Feel free to swap out the dried apples for other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to suit your taste. Oven Watch: Keep an eye on the granola while baking; it can go from golden to burnt quickly. Stir halfway through for even browning. Add a Crunch: Incorporate seeds like pumpkin or flax for an extra crunch and a boost of nutrition in your granola. {{image_4}} You can switch up the nuts for your granola. Instead of pecans, try walnuts or almonds. Both add a unique crunch and flavor. If you want a nut-free version, use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. They bring a nice texture and taste without nuts. To boost flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. For a sweet twist, toss in mini chocolate chips. These extras make each bite exciting and tasty. To make this granola vegan, ensure your maple syrup is pure. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat without worry. You can also replace coconut oil with a different oil like avocado oil for a neutral taste. Store your maple apple pecan granola in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. I prefer glass jars or plastic bins with tight lids. Avoid paper bags; they let air in, which makes your granola go soft. When stored properly, granola can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it may last a bit longer. Always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or unusual texture. If your granola loses its crunch, you can refresh it. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the granola on a baking sheet and bake it for about 10 minutes. Stir it halfway through to get even heat. This brings back its lovely crispiness and delicious aroma. Yes, you can use other fruits. Try dried cranberries, raisins, or figs. Each fruit adds its unique flavor. You can also mix them for variety. Fresh fruits work too, but add them later. Use them when serving the granola. To make granola clusters, press the mixture firmly on the baking sheet. Use your hands or a spatula. This helps it stick together while baking. Stir it gently halfway through baking to keep clusters intact. Let it cool completely before breaking it apart. Enjoy your granola in many ways. Serve it with yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast. Sprinkle it on top of smoothie bowls for crunch. Use it as a topping on desserts like ice cream. You can also enjoy it as a snack on its own. Yes, you can freeze granola. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature. You can also reheat it in the oven for a few minutes if you want it warm. We explored a simple recipe for homemade granola, covering key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned how to mix, bake, and customize your granola. I shared tips for perfect texture and tasty variations. Remember, you can store granola properly for longer freshness. This recipe offers a fun way to create snacks that fit your diet. Try different fruits and nuts to find your favorite blend. Your granola journey can start now!

Maple Apple Pecan Granola

A delicious and crunchy granola made with rolled oats, pecans, dried apples, and sweetened with maple syrup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup dried apples, diced
  • 1 2/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 2 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
  • 1 2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, diced dried apples, sunflower seeds (if using), ground cinnamon, and sea salt.
  • In another bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to coat evenly.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.
  • If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips after cooling.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For added sweetness, fold in mini chocolate chips after cooling.
Keyword breakfast, granola, healthy, snack