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For my Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola, I use simple, tasty ingredients: - 2 cups rolled oats - 1 cup chopped pecans - 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds - 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/2 cup pumpkin puree - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins These ingredients work together to create a crunchy, sweet treat. Each ingredient adds its own nutrition to this granola. - Rolled oats: Great source of fiber. They help keep you full. - Pecans: They offer healthy fats and protein. They add a nice crunch. - Pumpkin seeds: Packed with vitamins and minerals, they boost your health. - Coconut flakes: They bring flavor and healthy fat. - Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices add warmth and flavor without extra sugar. - Maple syrup: This natural sweetener gives a unique taste. - Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and nutrients, making granola rich. - Vanilla extract: It enhances the flavor and aroma. If you add dried cranberries or raisins, they bring extra sweetness and fiber, too. You can switch some ingredients if you need to. Here are some options: - Rolled oats: Quick oats work, but they can be softer. - Pecans: Use walnuts or almonds if you prefer. - Pumpkin seeds: Sunflower seeds can replace them for a nut-free option. - Coconut flakes: Omit them if you’re not a fan of coconut. - Maple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes. - Pumpkin puree: Applesauce is a fun swap for a different taste. These swaps still keep the granola tasty and healthy, tailored to your needs. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the granola cook evenly. 2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy. 3. In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to combine all the dry ingredients. 1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Make sure it is smooth. 2. Pour the wet mix over the dry mix. Stir until every oat and nut is coated. This step is key for flavor. 3. Spread the mixture evenly on the lined baking sheet. Press down slightly with a spatula. This helps form clumps. 4. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even cooking. Look for a golden brown color and a nice smell. 1. Remove the granola from the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will harden as it cools. 2. Once cool, you can stir in optional dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture. 3. Store your granola in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for weeks. To get clumpier granola, pack it tight on the baking sheet. Press down the mixture with a spatula. This creates those lovely clusters. Bake it without stirring for the first half of the time. This way, the granola forms larger pieces. After 20 minutes, check for golden color, then stir gently. You can add fun flavors to your granola. Try mixing in some vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt. Nuts and seeds add crunch and taste, so use your favorites. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins provide sweetness. A little extra cinnamon or nutmeg can boost the fall flavor too. One common mistake is using too much liquid. This can lead to soggy granola. Be careful not to overbake. You want it golden, not burnt. Also, don’t skip the cooling step. If you mix it before it cools, you might lose those clumps. Lastly, remember to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. {{image_2}} You can easily play with flavors in your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola. Adding dried fruits gives it a sweet twist. Try mixing in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture. If you like zing, consider adding chopped dried apricots or cherries. Nuts can also change the flavor. Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts for new tastes. This granola can fit many diets. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. If you need a nut-free blend, simply leave out the pecans. Sunflower seeds can replace nuts without losing crunch. You can also substitute pumpkin seeds with seeds like chia or flax for a different twist. Serving your granola can be fun! I love it with yogurt and fresh fruit. Layer it in a parfait for a pretty treat. You can sprinkle it on smoothies for a crunchy finish. It also makes a great topping for oatmeal or pancakes. Enjoy this granola as a snack on its own or with milk for a quick breakfast. After making your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola, allow it to cool completely. Once cool, transfer the granola to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and crunchy. You can use glass jars or plastic containers. For added freshness, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with heat and moisture, like near the stove or sink. When stored properly, your granola can last up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. In the freezer, the granola can last for about three months. Just remember to use a freezer-safe container. Label the container with the date, so you know when to use it. If your granola becomes stale, don't worry! You can easily bring it back to life. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the stale granola on a baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. This will help it regain its crunchy texture. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy your tasty snack again! Yes, you can use rolled oats. Rolled oats work well in granola. They give a nice texture and flavor. Quick oats cook faster but can make granola too fine. Rolled oats create a heartier bite. You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. Both sweeteners add a nice flavor. If you want a lower sugar option, try using mashed bananas. The bananas will also add moisture and sweetness. Homemade granola can last up to two weeks when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container. For the best taste, eat it fresh within a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. In this blog post, we explored each ingredient and its nutritional value, guided you through preparation and baking, and shared tips for perfect granola. We discussed fun flavor variations, dietary changes, and how to store your creation. Remember, making granola is flexible—experiment with ingredients and flavors you love. With practice, you’ll avoid common mistakes and create tasty, nutritious snacks every time. Enjoy your granola adventure!

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola! Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, this easy recipe combines rolled oats, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and warm spices, all sweetened with pure maple syrup and pumpkin puree. In just 35 minutes, you can create a delicious and nutritious granola that’s perfect for topping yogurt or smoothies. Click through to explore the recipe and elevate your snack game today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup pecans, chopped

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Instructions
 

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

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine evenly.

      In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.

        Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated.

          Spread the granola mixture out evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly with the back of a spatula for clumpier pieces.

            Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.

              Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to harden as it cools.

                Once cooled, stir in the optional dried cranberries or raisins. Store in an airtight container.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 10 (1/2 cup each)

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the granola in bowls topped with yogurt and fresh fruit, or sprinkle it over smoothies for added texture and flavor. Enjoy!