Are you ready to dive into fall flavors? This Pumpkin Spice Granola with Pecans is the perfect mix of crunchy and tasty. With hearty oats, sweet maple syrup, and a hint of pumpkin spice, this recipe is sure to warm your mornings. Plus, it’s versatile! Enjoy it with yogurt, as a snack, or even on its own. Let’s make a batch that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Let’s break down these ingredients. Rolled oats serve as the base of your granola. They give it that hearty texture and a nice chew. Chopped pecans add a rich, nutty flavor. They also give extra crunch. Pumpkin seeds are small but packed with nutrients. They add a nice bite and a bit of healthy fat.
Unsweetened shredded coconut brings a hint of sweetness and chewiness. Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness. Use maple syrup if you prefer a vegan option; it works just as well. Pumpkin puree makes this granola moist and adds pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin pie spice brings the fall vibes. It combines warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Sea salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavors. Lastly, vanilla extract rounds everything out with warmth.
You can add dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and chew. These optional add-ins are a fun way to customize your granola. You can mix and match based on what you like!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking.
2. Preparing the baking sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the granola from sticking.
3. Mixing dry ingredients
In a large bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped pecans, 1 cup of pumpkin seeds, and 1/2 cup of shredded coconut. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients mix well.
4. Whisking wet ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup of honey (or maple syrup), 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth.
5. Combining wet and dry mixtures
Pour the wet mix over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until all the oats and nuts get coated in the pumpkin mix.
6. Baking the granola
Spread the granola mix evenly on the lined baking sheet. Bake it for 25 to 30 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through to ensure even browning.
7. Cooling process
Once golden brown, take the granola out of the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crunchier as it cools.
Enjoy your tasty and crunchy pumpkin spice granola!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
– Using high-quality ingredients: Always choose fresh and organic ingredients. Fresh pecans and pure pumpkin puree boost flavor. They make your granola taste amazing.
– Importance of even baking: Spread the granola mixture evenly on the baking sheet. This helps it cook uniformly. It avoids burning the edges while keeping the center soft.
– Monitoring granola for perfect crunch: Stir the granola halfway through baking. This ensures all parts get that nice, crunchy texture. Check for a golden color to know it’s done.
Storage Suggestions
– Best containers for storage: Use airtight containers for the best storage. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. They keep your granola fresh longer.
– Duration of freshness: If stored properly, your granola lasts about two weeks. You can also freeze it for up to three months for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing with yogurt or milk: Serve your granola with yogurt or milk. It makes a tasty breakfast or snack. Add some fresh fruit for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Creative ways to enjoy granola: Sprinkle it on pancakes or oatmeal. You can also use it as a topping for desserts. It adds a nice crunch and flavor.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
If you want a gluten-free version of pumpkin spice granola, it’s easy. Just use certified gluten-free oats. They taste great and work well in this recipe. For vegan substitutions, swap honey for maple syrup. This keeps the granola plant-based while still being sweet.
Flavor Variations
You can boost the flavor by adding more nuts or seeds. Almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add crunch and taste. You could try different spices too. Cinnamon or nutmeg can give it a new twist. A pinch of ginger can also brighten the flavor.
Seasonal Add-ins
Think about seasonal add-ins for more fun. In fall, add chopped apples or pears for a fresh taste. In winter, dried fruits like figs or apricots can warm up your granola. For summer, use fresh berries or peaches. They mix well with the granola and add color.
Common FAQs
How long does homemade granola last?
Homemade granola lasts about two weeks when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, you can freeze it. Just ensure it is well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can make this granola nut-free. Simply leave out the pecans and add more pumpkin seeds or seeds like sunflower seeds. This keeps the crunch while ensuring it’s safe for those with nut allergies.
Is it possible to substitute pumpkin puree?
You can substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce or mashed bananas. Each option adds moisture and a touch of flavor. However, using pumpkin puree gives the best taste and texture for this granola.
What’s the best way to serve pumpkin spice granola?
Serve this granola in bowls or jars. Top it with yogurt or milk for a tasty breakfast. You can also sprinkle some extra pumpkin spice on top for more flavor. Enjoy it as a snack or add it to smoothies for extra crunch.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition Breakdown
Each serving of pumpkin spice granola has about 200 calories. This includes healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Key nutrients in this granola include:
– Protein
– Fiber
– Healthy fats
– Iron
– Magnesium
Health Benefits
Oats are great for your heart. They help lower cholesterol and keep you full. Pecans add healthy fats and vitamins. They also support brain health. Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and magnesium. They boost your immune system and help with muscle function.
Portion Control
A good serving size is about 1/4 cup. This helps you enjoy the taste without overdoing it. Pair this granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. You can also sprinkle it on oatmeal or salads for added texture and flavor.
This post covered how to make delicious pumpkin spice granola. We explored each ingredient, from oats to spices. You learned step-by-step methods to prepare and bake it. I shared tips for great flavor and storage advice. Enjoy it with yogurt, or try variations for seasonal tastes. Granola can fit many diets, too. Remember, making it at home means you control the taste and health. I hope you feel excited to try this recipe and make it your own!
