Maple Pecan Granola

Name: Maple Pecan Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 3 cups rolled oats; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love starting my day with a bowl of Maple Pecan Granola. The combination of crunchy pecans, oats, and the sweet touch of maple syrup makes this breakfast both delightful and nutritious. Not only does it fill me up, but it also provides a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make in just a few simple steps, allowing me to customize it with my favorite add-ins. It’s the perfect way to add some crunch to my morning routine!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:13:35.950Z

When I first tried making granola, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it was. The aroma of maple syrup mingling with toasty oats and nuts creates such a comforting atmosphere in my kitchen. I found that roasting the ingredients just until golden dramatically enhances their flavor, making each bite a delightful adventure!

What makes this granola even better is its versatility. I often experiment with different nuts and dried fruits based on what I have at home. My favorite addition has become dried cranberries, which provide a perfect tart contrast to the sweet maple. Trust me, once you try making granola from scratch, you'll never look back!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture with rich nutty flavors
Naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup
Customizable with your favorite nuts and fruits

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Maple Pecan Granola plays a crucial role in developing its flavor and texture. Oats provide the base and create a hearty texture, while chopped pecans add a rich nuttiness that perfectly complements the sweetness of maple syrup. Coconut oil not only helps bind the mixture but also imparts a lovely tropical aroma. The salt and cinnamon work together to enhance the overall flavor profile, balancing the sweetness with warmth and depth.

Choosing high-quality maple syrup is essential for maximizing the taste of your granola. Opt for pure maple syrup rather than imitations, as it brings a complex flavor that artificial syrups can't replicate. If you're looking for substitutes, agave syrup or honey can work, but they will alter the flavor slightly. Just keep in mind that honey may require reducing the amount used due to its stronger sweetness.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking granola may seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect texture requires attention. Spread the granola mixture evenly on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking; overcrowding can result in uneven browning. When baking, keep a close eye on the granola during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning. It should look golden brown and have a crispy texture once out of the oven. Stirring halfway through the baking process helps promote uniformity in toasting, preventing clumping.

Cooling the granola is a vital step that should not be rushed. Letting it sit on the baking sheet allows it to harden further, creating those desirable clusters. If you prefer a chunkier granola, resist the urge to stir it right after baking and instead let it cool undisturbed. Once cooled, breaking any larger pieces apart to your liking can create a diverse texture in your final product.

Ingredients

Granola Base

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

Optional Add-ins

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, salt, and cinnamon.

Incorporate Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan, warm the maple syrup and melted coconut oil over low heat until combined. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well to combine.

Bake the Granola

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

Add Optional Ingredients

Once out of the oven, allow the granola to cool. If using, mix in dried cranberries or any other optional ingredients.

Store and Enjoy

Store the cooled granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or just by the handful!

Pro Tips

Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup. Try mixing in different nuts based on your preference for variation.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Maple Pecan Granola, store it in an airtight container. It can last up to two weeks at room temperature, retaining its crunchiness. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, although this may slightly affect the texture. For even longer storage, you can freeze the granola in a resealable freezer bag for up to three months. Just allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying it again.

When storing granola, avoid placing it in areas with high humidity, as this can lead to sogginess. If you notice that the granola has lost its crunch, you can revitalize it by spreading it out on a baking sheet and reheating it in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Customizing Your Granola

One of the joys of making granola is the ability to customize it according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different nuts; almonds, walnuts, or even pecans can lead to varying flavor experiences. Similarly, adding dried fruits such as apricots, cherries, or even chocolate chips can introduce new textures and insights into your morning bowl. Just be cautious not to overdo it with sticky ingredients, as they can make the granola clump excessively.

If you enjoy a little spice, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger to the spice mix. This not only enhances the overall flavor but can also provide a seasonal twist. You might try incorporating seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added nutrition and crunch. This flexibility allows you to make a version that feels new each time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace maple syrup with honey?

Yes, honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup; however, it will change the flavor profile slightly.

→ How can I make this granola gluten-free?

Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. All other ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

→ Is it possible to make this granola nut-free?

Certainly! You can replace the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

→ How do I store the granola?

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, keep it in the fridge.