Maple Pecan Granola

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

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love making my own granola, and this Maple Pecan Granola has quickly become my go-to recipe. It’s so easy to whip up, and the combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a deliciously sweet and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist. I enjoy it sprinkled over yogurt or as a grab-and-go snack. Plus, making it at home means I can adjust the sweetness and add my favorite mix-ins. It's a fantastic way to kickstart my day with wholesome goodness!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:08:35.780Z

When I first tried making homemade granola, I was amazed by how simple it was and how much better it tasted compared to store-bought versions. This Maple Pecan Granola recipe was a game-changer for me. I experimented with different nuts and sweeteners, but the maple syrup paired with pecans became my favorite. The smell of it baking in the oven is unforgettable!

One tip I discovered is to let the granola cool completely after baking. This allows it to become crispy and cluster nicely. I often make a double batch and store it in an airtight container for a quick, nutritious breakfast throughout the week.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistible sweet and nutty flavor from maple syrup and pecans
Customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits
Perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack

The Role of Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats and chopped pecans creates a delightful texture in this Maple Pecan Granola. Rolled oats provide a hearty base that's chewy yet crispy when baked. Pecans not only add a rich, nutty flavor but also contribute healthy fats and protein, enhancing the granola's nutritional profile. It’s important to use natural, unsweetened coconut oil for the best results, as it'll help bind the ingredients while providing a subtle tropical flavor.

Maple syrup is the star sweetener here, offering a unique depth that granulated sugar simply can't replicate. The syrup not only sweetens but also acts as a binding agent, ensuring your granola clusters well. If you're looking for a lower glycemic index sweetener, substituting maple syrup with honey or agave nectar is possible; just keep in mind that these might alter the flavor slightly.

Perfecting Bake Time

Achieving that golden-brown color is crucial for the perfect granola. Bake the mixture for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but keep a close eye on it as oven temperatures can vary. Stir the granola halfway through to promote even baking and prevent burning. You want it to be golden around the edges; any spots that look dark can affect the overall flavor, leading to bitterness.

Once out of the oven, allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet; this step is vital. The cooling process causes the granola to harden into clusters, making it more enjoyable to eat. If you can’t wait to dig in, you risk a crumbly granola—though it will still taste great, you may miss those satisfying bites.

Storage and Variations

Proper storage can extend the life of your homemade granola. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container, where it should stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just ensure it’s in a resealable freezer bag, where it can last up to three months, and defrost as needed. This method is fantastic for meal prepping and having healthy snacks on hand.

Feel free to customize your granola according to your taste preferences! Adding dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, can enhance sweetness and fiber. If you want to incorporate a protein boost, experiment with chia seeds or pumpkin seeds. Just be cautious of adding too many wet ingredients as this could alter the consistency and result in chewy, rather than crispy, granola.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Maple Pecan Granola:

Ingredients for Maple Pecan Granola

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

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like dried fruits or chocolate chips, after the granola has cooled.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect granola:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, salt, cinnamon, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well coated.

Bake the Granola

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking.

Cool and Store

Once golden brown, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade granola with yogurt, milk, or simply as a snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this granola recipe by adding dried fruits, seeds, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and nutritional value.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with homemade granola is uneven cooking; if you notice parts are burnt while other sections remain undercooked, consider mixing the batch more thoroughly during baking. If your granola ends up too dry, you can add a bit of melted coconut oil after it’s cooled for a hint of moisture without altering the flavor significantly.

If your granola isn't clustering as desired, the mixture may need a little more binding agent like maple syrup or oil. Stirring the granola more frequently during baking can also help, as it allows the mixture to rediscover moisture evenly throughout.

Serving Suggestions

This Maple Pecan Granola can be enjoyed in various ways! Pair it with yogurt, milk, or a plant-based alternative for a nutritious breakfast. I often add a drizzle of additional maple syrup over the top for extra sweetness, especially when serving it to guests.

For a delightful snack, combine the granola with some dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut to transform it into an energy-boosting trail mix. You can also sprinkle it over smoothie bowls for added crunch and flavor. Remember, the versatility of this recipe means you can constantly innovate and find new ways to enjoy it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?

Yes, you can use honey instead of maple syrup, but this will slightly alter the flavor profile.

→ How long can I store the granola?

The granola can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I make this granola vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup as a sweetener, which makes this recipe naturally vegan.

→ Is it possible to add more nuts?

Yes! You can customize the nut mixture as per your taste; just ensure the total quantity remains about the same.