Maple Pecan Granola Crunchy and Flavorful Recipe
Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game? This Maple Pecan Granola recipe is crunchy and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking, topping yogurt, or enjoying with milk. I’ll share my tips and tricks to achieve the best texture and flavor. Let’s dive into making your new favorite granola!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients for Maple Pecan Granola
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruits)
You will need a mix of wholesome ingredients for this granola. First, rolled oats form the base. They provide fiber and help create a crunchy texture. Next, we add pecans, which give a rich flavor and a nice crunch. Don’t forget the unsweetened shredded coconut; it adds a tropical touch.
Using pure maple syrup as the sweetener brings a lovely depth of flavor. Coconut oil keeps the granola moist while adding healthy fats. The vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt enhance the taste. Lastly, I recommend adding dried cranberries or any dried fruit you like for a sweet bite. These ingredients work together to create a tasty Maple Pecan Granola that you will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect heat for crisping the granola. Next, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This paper stops the granola from sticking and makes clean-up easy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, toss in 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. Using a spoon, stir these dry ingredients well. Make sure everything is mixed evenly. This step is key for balanced flavor.
Creating the Wet Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Mix until it’s smooth. This wet mixture adds sweetness and flavor to your granola.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together. You want to ensure all the oats and pecans get coated in the sweet maple blend. This step helps the granola clump together as it bakes.
Baking the Granola
Spread the granola mixture evenly on the lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s in a single layer for even cooking. Place the sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the granola to help it brown evenly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Cooling and Adding Dried Fruit
After baking, take the sheet out of the oven. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is crucial for the crunchy texture you want. Once cooled, gently fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. This adds a nice touch of sweetness and color to your granola.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To get that perfect crunch in your granola, cooling is key. After you bake it, let it cool on the sheet. This cooling time helps form clusters. Once it’s cool, break it into pieces. If you try to break it apart while it’s hot, it will crumble.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch out the coconut or sweeteners if needed. For coconut, try using nuts like almonds. If you want a different sweet taste, agave syrup works great. Honey is also a good choice if you are not vegan. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite mix!
Baking Tips
Stir the granola halfway through baking. This helps everything cook evenly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. If you see it turning dark, take it out sooner. The best granola is golden brown, not burnt. These small steps will ensure your granola turns out just right!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your granola easily. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Dark chocolate pairs well with the maple and pecans. You can also use spices. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger adds warmth. These flavors make your granola exciting and new.
Nut Alternatives
If you want to switch it up, use different nuts. Almonds or walnuts work great in this recipe. They add a nice crunch and flavor. You can even mix different nuts together. Just make sure to chop them roughly for even baking.
Additional Ingredients
Add seeds or dried fruits for extra texture. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds boost nutrition. They add a good crunch too. For dried fruits, try raisins, apricots, or figs. These fruits add sweetness and chewiness. Mixing these extras creates a fun and tasty granola.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your maple pecan granola fresh, store it in airtight containers. These containers prevent air and moisture from getting in. You can use glass jars or plastic bins with tight lids. This way, your granola stays crunchy and tasty for longer.
Shelf Life
When stored properly, your granola lasts about two weeks. After that, it may lose its crunch and flavor. Check for any signs of spoilage, like odd smells or changes in texture. If it smells great and looks good, it’s still good to eat!
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze your granola. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. Granola can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, just let it thaw at room temperature. Then, enjoy your crunchy snack!
FAQs
How do I make Maple Pecan Granola vegan?
To make this granola vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup. Use plant-based oils like coconut oil. Ensure your vanilla extract is pure and vegan-friendly. You can also add a splash of almond milk if you want a creamier texture.
Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
Yes! You can use a variety of nuts. Try walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Mixing different nuts adds flavor and crunch. Just keep the total amount the same, so your granola bakes evenly.
Is the granola gluten-free?
Yes, this granola can be gluten-free. Use certified gluten-free oats. Always check labels on other ingredients like nuts and dried fruits. This way, you ensure no gluten sneaks in.
How can I customize my granola recipe?
You can add your favorite seeds like chia or flaxseeds. Try different dried fruits such as apricots or figs. Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a twist. Make it your own by mixing flavors you love!
Making Maple Pecan Granola is simple and fun. You need just a few ingredients and clear steps. We talked about key ingredients like oats, pecans, and maple syrup. I showed you how to mix and bake them for a tasty snack. Remember to cool your granola for a great crunch. You can try different nuts or flavors to make it your own. Store it right to keep it fresh. Enjoy your delicious creation, and share it with friends!
![To make this delightful chilled peach soup, gather these main ingredients: - 4 ripe peaches, peeled and pitted - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 cup almond milk - 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) - Juice of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of salt These ingredients create a creamy and fruity flavor. The ripe peaches give sweetness and vibrancy. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. Almond milk keeps it light and smooth. Honey or maple syrup sweetens it naturally. Lemon juice brightens the taste, while vanilla adds warmth. For an extra touch, consider these garnishes: - Fresh mint leaves for garnish - Crushed pistachios for topping (optional) Mint leaves add a fresh burst of flavor and color. Crushed pistachios give a nice crunch and a nutty taste. You can easily swap out some ingredients if needed: - Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version. - Substitute regular milk for almond milk if you prefer. - Adjust the sweetener; agave nectar works well too. - Try adding a splash of orange juice for a different citrus note. These substitutions help you customize the soup to your taste or dietary needs. You still get a refreshing and delicious chilled peach soup with any of these changes. For the full recipe, visit the [Full Recipe]. Start by washing the peaches well. Peeling them is next. Use a sharp knife to cut the peaches into small, even chunks. This helps them blend smoothly. Remove the pits and add the chopped peaches to your blender. Now, it’s time to mix everything. Add the Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the blender with the peaches. Each ingredient enhances the flavor and texture of the soup. Blend the mixture on high speed. You want it to be smooth and creamy. If you like a little texture, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending non-stop. This gives you control over the final consistency. Taste the soup. If it needs more sweetness or tang, add more honey or lemon juice. Once blended, pour the soup into a bowl or pitcher. Cover it tightly and place it in the fridge for at least two hours. This chilling time allows flavors to mix well. When ready to serve, stir the soup again. Pour it into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves and crushed pistachios. For a fancy touch, use chilled bowls. This chilled peach soup is perfect for a light dessert or starter. For the full recipe, check out the details above! To select the best peaches, look for ripe, fragrant fruit. They should have a slight give when you gently press them. Avoid peaches with bruises or soft spots. Choosing freestone peaches makes your prep easier. These peaches separate cleanly from the pit. You can tweak the flavor of your chilled peach soup. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup. For more tartness, squeeze in more lemon juice. Always taste as you go. This way, you find the perfect balance for your palate. When blending, start on low speed, then increase. This helps break down the peaches evenly. If you like some texture, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending fully. For a creamier soup, blend longer. Always check the consistency before serving. You want it smooth but not too thin. For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can easily make this soup vegan. Just swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt. It adds a nice creaminess. Use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness. You can also try different plant-based milk. Almond, oat, or soy milk work well too. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty bowl of chilled peach soup. Want to spice it up? Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for warmth. These spices can add depth to the sweet peaches. Fresh herbs can make it even better. Try basil or rosemary for a unique twist. Just a small amount can change the flavor profile completely. To change the texture, consider using different fruits. Add diced mango or berries for a fruity crunch. You can also mix in some chia seeds for a fun texture. Blending in some silken tofu can make the soup creamier. Each variation brings a new taste and feel to your chilled peach soup. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Store leftover chilled peach soup in an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh. Make sure to cool it first before sealing. If you don’t have a container, you can use plastic wrap. Just cover the bowl tightly. Chilled peach soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose its flavor and freshness. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells sour or changes color, it's best to toss it. You can freeze chilled peach soup for up to 3 months. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. This allows for expansion when frozen. To enjoy later, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Stir well before serving to restore its smooth texture. For the full recipe, see the section above. Serve chilled peach soup in a bowl or a small glass. I love using chilled bowls for that extra touch. You can drizzle a bit of almond milk on top. A mint leaf adds a great pop of color. This soup works well as a light starter or a refreshing dessert. Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure they are thawed first. This keeps the soup smooth and creamy. Frozen peaches may change the taste slightly, but they still taste great. Chilled peach soup is quite healthy. It has ripe peaches, Greek yogurt, and almond milk. These ingredients offer vitamins, protein, and healthy fats. The honey adds natural sweetness, making it a tasty and nutritious choice. Enjoy it without guilt! You can mix in other fruits like berries or mangoes. Simply chop them up and blend them with peaches. Adjust the sweetness to match the fruit you choose. This gives you a unique flavor every time. Enjoy experimenting with seasonal fruits for variety! Chilled peach soup is a refreshing treat. We covered the main ingredients, like fresh peaches, and how to blend them for the best flavor. I shared tips on choosing, storing, and even varying the recipe for vegan options. Remember, this soup is easy to make and fun to try. Enjoy exploring different flavors or garnishes to suit your taste. Now, it’s time to make your own chilled peach soup and savor each bite!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cde2237f-ab80-4fd7-9ae6-23109d9f52c0-768x768.webp)