If you ever crave a granola that’s crunchy, nutty, and infused with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, this Maple Pecan Granola Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s the kind of snack that feels homemade yet special, with the perfect harmony of toasted oats, toasted pecans, and a burst of dried cherries and cranberries. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch paired with warm spices and just the right amount of natural sweetness. Whether you’re topping your morning yogurt, munching on it straight from the jar, or sprinkling it over smoothie bowls, this Maple Pecan Granola Recipe will quickly become your go-to staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward and wholesome the ingredients are. Each component plays a critical role in crafting that irresistible texture and flavor that defines the Maple Pecan Granola Recipe. The mix of oats and bran lays the hearty base, while the nuts and seeds add crunch and richness. Sweeteners and spices weave everything together into a cozy, inviting blend.
- 8 cups rolled oats: The hearty foundation of your granola with plenty of chew.
- 1 & 1/2 cups wheat germ: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and boosts nutrition.
- 1 & 1/2 cups oat bran: Gives extra fiber and a luscious, slightly chewy texture.
- 1 cup salted sunflower seeds: A crunchy, savory contrast to the sweetness.
- 1 cup sliced almonds: Brings a delicate crunch and buttery flavor.
- 1 cup salted pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Adds festive color and a hearty bite.
- 1 cup pecans (roughly chopped): The star nut that lends buttery richness and warmth.
- 1 cup olive oil: Provides moisture and helps everything toast evenly.
- 3/4 cup maple syrup: The signature sweetener that sings in this recipe.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and sticky, golden color.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Infuses the granola with warm, cozy spice notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom: Brings a subtle floral earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves: A hint of bold spice that adds depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Rounds out the spice mix with a gentle nuttiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla (or vanilla bean paste): Adds a fragrant sweetness and complexity.
- 1 & 1/2 cups dried cherries: Tart-sweet bursts that complement the nuts perfectly.
- 1 & 1/2 cups dried cranberries: A tangy chew that brightens every handful.
How to Make Maple Pecan Granola Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for toasting your granola just right. Then grab your largest mixing bowl and combine the rolled oats, wheat germ, oat bran, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, salted pepitas, and roughly chopped pecans. This dry mixture is where all the crunchy magic begins.
Step 2: Create the Spiced Maple Syrup Blend
Next, in a saucepan, bring together the olive oil, maple syrup, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Heat this gently until it just comes to a boil, then take the pan off the heat immediately. Let it cool for about a minute—that’s key to saving the bright vanilla flavor you’ll add next from burning off.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Once the syrup mixture has cooled slightly, stir in the vanilla or vanilla bean paste. Now it’s time to gradually pour this fragrant syrup over your oat and nut mixture. Do it slowly in a few increments, stirring in between to ensure every oat and nut cluster is beautifully coated in that sweet, spiced goodness.
Step 4: Spread and Bake Your Granola
Line two large rimmed baking sheets with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup. Divide the granola mixture evenly across both pans and spread it out in an even layer. Bake at 350 degrees for about 12 minutes, then give the pans a good stir to promote even roasting. Pop it back in the oven for another 10 to 12 minutes, watching carefully so it reaches a golden brown without burning. If you bake both trays at once, be sure to switch their positions when you stir to keep things even.
Step 5: Add the Dried Fruit and Cool
Once your granola has cooled a bit but is still warm, sprinkle the dried cherries and dried cranberries over top and gently mix them in. This step ensures the juice-filled berries don’t get over-toasted but still mingle beautifully with the crunchy clusters. Let your granola cool completely before storing or serving.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Granola Recipe
Garnishes
One of the best parts of your homemade granola is the opportunity to dress it up. Try sprinkling fresh berries, a drizzle of additional maple syrup, or a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt. A few slices of banana or a handful of toasted coconut flakes add a delightful textural contrast, making your morning bowl feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This granola pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes. Serve it alongside a chilled fruit salad for a refreshing balance or add it as a crunchy topping to your favorite smoothie bowl. It’s also fantastic sprinkled over a bowl of warm oatmeal to add crunch and flavor complexity.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, layer maple pecan granola parfaits in clear glasses with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit, allowing everyone to see the beautiful texture and colors. You can also fold it into homemade energy bars or mix it into your favorite muffin batter for a surprise crunch in every bite. The Maple Pecan Granola Recipe is versatile enough to elevate countless dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, ready to brighten breakfasts or snack times whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep your granola on hand for longer, freezing works wonderfully. Simply portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will last for several months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature—it maintains all of its texture and flavor.
Reheating
If your granola ever loses a bit of its crunch after storage, pop it into a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to revive that freshly toasted crispiness. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning, and enjoy it as if you just baked it fresh.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts make excellent alternatives that offer a similar rich, buttery crunch that complements the maple syrup beautifully.
Is it possible to make this granola vegan?
Yes! To make the Maple Pecan Granola Recipe vegan, simply replace the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar—both keep it sweet and sticky perfectly.
Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
While olive oil adds a lovely depth, you can substitute with coconut oil or avocado oil depending on your flavor preferences. Just be sure the oil is mild enough not to overpower the granola’s spices.
How do I keep the granola clusters from falling apart?
Be sure to mix the syrup slowly and thoroughly so every oat and nut is coated. Baking without stirring too often also helps clusters form naturally as the syrup caramelizes. Letting the granola cool completely before stirring in the dried fruit preserves the clusters, too.
Can I add other dried fruits or extras?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with dried apricots, raisins, or even coconut flakes. Just add them after baking to avoid burning, and you’ll add your own twist to this delicious Maple Pecan Granola Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Maple Pecan Granola Recipe enough if you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful granola that feels a little indulgent yet stays nourishing. The combination of warm spices, sweet maple, and crunchy nuts creates a breakfast or snack that really sticks with you—in the best way. Give it a try, share it with friends, and watch how quickly it disappears from the jar.
Print
Maple Pecan Granola Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Maple Pecan Granola is a crunchy, flavorful homemade granola loaded with oats, nuts, seeds, and sweetened naturally with maple syrup and honey. Spiced with warm notes of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg, this granola is perfect as a wholesome breakfast or snack, topped with dried cherries and cranberries for a bright fruity finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 cups rolled oats
- 1 & 1/2 cups wheat germ
- 1 & 1/2 cups oat bran
- 1 cup salted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup salted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup olive oil
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla (or vanilla bean paste)
Add-ins
- 1 & 1/2 cups dried cherries
- 1 & 1/2 cups dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for baking the granola evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, wheat germ, oat bran, salted sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, salted pepitas, and roughly chopped pecans thoroughly.
- Prepare the Spiced Syrup: In a saucepan, combine olive oil, maple syrup, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let it sit for about a minute before stirring in the vanilla to prevent burning off its flavor.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the spiced syrup over the oat mixture in increments, stirring continuously until all the liquid is fully incorporated and the oats are evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Line two large rimmed baking sheets with foil or parchment paper. Divide the granola mixture evenly between the sheets and spread it out uniformly for even baking.
- Bake the Granola: Bake in the oven for about 12 minutes, then stir the granola on both pans to ensure even browning. Continue baking for another 10 to 12 minutes until the granola starts to brown lightly. If baking both pans simultaneously, rotate their positions after stirring for even heat distribution.
- Cool and Add Dried Fruits: Remove the pans from the oven and let the granola cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle the dried cherries and cranberries over the granola and mix them in evenly.
Notes
- Ensure not to add vanilla too early to prevent the flavor from burning off.
- Stirring during baking helps prevent uneven browning and clumping.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Allow the granola to cool fully before adding dried fruits to avoid moisture making the granola soggy.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
