Maple Pecan Granola

Name: Maple Pecan Granola
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Serve

I absolutely love starting my day with a bowl of homemade Maple Pecan Granola. The nutty flavor of pecans combined with the warm sweetness of maple syrup makes for a delightful breakfast that’s both satisfying and nutritious. I like to prepare a large batch on the weekends, so I always have some ready for busy mornings. It's perfect with yogurt and fresh fruit or even as a crunchy topping on desserts. Making granola at home allows me to customize it to my taste, and I can control the sweetness and ingredients.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:48:40.127Z

When I first experimented with making granola, I didn’t expect it to be such a simple and rewarding process. By toasting oats and nuts in the oven, I discovered how the heat brings out their natural flavors, especially the pecans, which become beautifully aromatic. I realized that the key to a great granola is balancing the elements, ensuring each ingredient complements the others perfectly.

One unique aspect of this Maple Pecan Granola is how it allows for endless customization. I’ve tried adding dried fruit and even seeds, which enhanced the texture further. If you want a hint of extra sweetness, a sprinkle of cinnamon does wonders, making it perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack throughout the day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Irresistible crunch from toasted pecans and oats
Natural sweetness from pure maple syrup
Versatile for breakfast or snacking

Understanding the Ingredients

Old-fashioned oats are the cornerstone of this granola. Their hearty texture allows them to crisp up beautifully in the oven while providing a satisfying chew. If you're out of old-fashioned oats, avoid instant oats as they will turn mushy. Steel-cut oats can be used, but you'll need to adjust the baking time since they take longer to cook.

Pecans not only add a rich, nutty flavor but also healthy fats that contribute to the satisfying crunch you seek in granola. Make sure to toast the pecans lightly before incorporating them to enhance their flavor; this can be done in the oven for about 5-7 minutes on a separate baking tray at 350°F. If pecans aren't your favorite, try swapping them for walnuts or almonds, keeping in mind the texture and taste variations.

Baking Tips for Perfect Granola

When baking the granola, spreading the mixture thinly and evenly is key to achieving that perfect toasty crunch. If the granola is piled too high in the pan, it may not bake uniformly, leading to some clumps that are overly soft. Halfway through baking, be sure to stir the granola; this will help with even browning and prevent any burning on the edges.

After baking, allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the granola to harden and clump slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy. If you prefer larger clusters, avoid stirring too much during cooling, as that could break them apart.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Store your homemade maple pecan granola in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the granola in a resealable bag for up to three months. Just be sure it’s completely cooled before freezing, as excess moisture can create unwanted clumps.

This granola isn't just for breakfast; its versatility allows it to shine as a snack or a dessert topping. Try it over Greek yogurt with berries for a delightful treat or sprinkle it on top of your favorite ice cream for added texture. You can also mix in other spices or seeds, such as chia or pumpkin seeds, to further customize your flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your granola-making adventure!

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)

These ingredients will come together for a wholesome treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious granola.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.

Bake the Granola

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

Cool and Store

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, mix in any dried fruit if desired. Store in an airtight container.

Your homemade granola is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a mix of seeds or using flavored extracts like almond or coconut.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different types of sweeteners beyond maple syrup. Honey or agave syrup can be substituted for those who prefer a lighter taste. Just remember that slight variations in sweetness level may change the final texture, so adjust the quantities to your liking.

Adding different nuts or seeds can transform your granola. Experiment with cashews, sunflower seeds, or even coconut flakes for a tropical twist. Just ensure that you maintain a balance of dry ingredients for the best texture. You can incorporate spices like ginger or nutmeg for a unique flavor kick, complementing the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your granola seems overly clumpy or sticky, it might be due to too much liquid. This can happen if the wet ingredients are not balanced correctly. Make sure to measure the liquids precisely; sometimes a little extra maple syrup can lead to clumping. If you encounter this issue, breaking up the clumps by hand after baking can help.

On the other hand, if your granola didn't crisp up as expected, it may have been baked at too low a temperature or wasn't spread out evenly. Always keep an eye on it and give a final stir to promote even cooking. If you like it extra crispy, leave it in the oven a few additional minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?

Yes, honey will work fine, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the granola?

Keep the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

→ Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Add them after baking when the granola is still warm for melty goodness.

→ Is this granola gluten-free?

Check that your oats are labeled gluten-free, and it will be safe for gluten-sensitive diets.