Maple Pecan Granola

Name: Maple Pecan Granola
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dried fruits (optional)

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Serve

I absolutely adore making my own granola at home, and this Maple Pecan Granola has become a favorite in my household. The combination of crunchy pecans and sweet maple syrup creates an irresistible breakfast or snack option. I love how customizable it is, allowing me to toss in my favorite dried fruits or seeds. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare and makes your kitchen smell heavenly while it bakes. If you’re looking for a wholesome treat that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals, this granola is a must-try!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:35.822Z

When I first started experimenting with homemade granola, I was amazed by how easy it was to create something so delightful. My favorite blend features pecans for their crunchy texture paired with sweet maple syrup for a natural sweetness that’s hard to resist. I remember the first time I made a big batch; the aroma wafted through my home, inviting everyone to dig in!

The secret to achieving the perfect granola is in the baking – low and slow is key! Baking at a lower temperature allows the oats and nuts to toast evenly, resulting in a perfect golden-brown finish. I also like to make sure to stir the mixture halfway through baking to ensure every bite is equally delicious and crispy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy pecans add a satisfying texture
Sweet maple syrup offers a natural sweetness
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or topping your yogurt

The Role of Ingredients

Each component of this Maple Pecan Granola plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect crunchy texture and delightful taste. The rolled oats serve as the base, providing fiber and a wholesome nutty flavor. It's essential to use large flake oats rather than instant or quick oats to maintain that desired crunch. The chopped pecans not only enhance the nutty undertone but also add healthy fats, contributing to satiety—making this granola a fulfilling option for any time of day.

Maple syrup is the star ingredient in this recipe, delivering natural sweetness without refined sugars. It also serves as a binding agent that helps the granola clump together during baking. If you're looking for an alternative, agave syrup or honey can be used, although they may slightly change the flavor profile. Coconut oil, another key player, not only adds richness but also ensures the granola doesn't dry out. For a dairy-free option, you can replace it with a light vegetable oil like avocado oil.

Baking Technique Tips

Baking granola at a lower temperature of 300°F (150°C) is vital for preventing over-browning. This heat allows the oats to slowly caramelize, ensuring a perfect golden hue without burning. Stir the mixture halfway through baking to promote even cooking; you'll know it’s done when you see the edges start to turn golden brown and the granola feels slightly firm to the touch. If the granola seems soft after cooling, a brief re-bake at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes can help solidify those crunchy bits.

When you remove the granola from the oven, resist the temptation to stir it immediately. Let it cool undisturbed on the baking sheet, as this will help create clumps and chunks, making for better texture when you eat it. If you prefer a looser texture, give it a gentle stir right after baking before cooling. In terms of storage, an airtight container will keep the granola fresh for up to two weeks, but it’s best enjoyed within the first week for peak freshness.

Ingredients

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

Granola Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dried fruits (optional)

You can adjust the ingredients as per your taste preference!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Maple Pecan Granola:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, salt, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated.

Spread and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden brown.

Cool and Store

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, mix in dried fruits if using and store in an airtight container.

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

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute pecans with any other nuts or seeds you prefer, and adjust the sweetness by using more or less maple syrup based on your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Maple Pecan Granola as a standalone snack or breakfast option—it's perfect served with milk or yogurt. For an indulgent touch, top it with fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas, which add color and freshness. You can also sprinkle it over oatmeal or blend it into smoothies for added crunch and flavor.

If you're looking to enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding a scoop of protein powder or chia seeds to the mixture before baking. This way, the granola not only satisfies hunger but also supports your fitness goals. As a topping, it pairs beautifully with fruit salads or smoothie bowls, bringing a delightful crunch to each bite.

Customizing Your Granola

One of the joys of making your own granola is the endless potential for customization. Feel free to swap out the pecans for your favorite nuts such as almonds or walnuts. You can even mix in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds to add an extra layer of nutrition and crunch. Just keep in mind to maintain the overall measurements, ensuring the binding elements like maple syrup and coconut oil are consistent for the best results.

Dried fruits are an excellent addition for natural sweetness, but you should add them only after baking—this will prevent them from burning and losing their flavor. Options such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots work wonderfully. Additionally, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be incorporated into the mix before baking to elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with flavors can turn this basic recipe into countless variations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any nuts you prefer.

→ How long does homemade granola last?

Stored in an airtight container, your granola can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

→ Can I make this granola gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep it gluten-free.

→ Can I add more flavor to the granola?

Definitely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even chocolate chips once it's cooled.