Pumpkin Spice Granola with Pecans Tasty and Crunchy
Are you ready to enjoy a tasty and crunchy treat? This Pumpkin Spice Granola with Pecans is the perfect mix for fall. It’s not just a snack; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this delicious granola at home. Join me as I guide you through the process of creating a delightful blend that you’ll love sharing (or keeping all to yourself)!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
Importance of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient in this granola plays a key role.
- Rolled oats provide fiber and a chewy texture. They form the base of the granola.
- Pecans add richness and crunch. They also give healthy fats.
- Pumpkin seeds add a nice bite and are full of nutrients.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut brings flavor and a bit of sweetness.
- Maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener and binds the mix.
- Coconut oil adds healthy fats and helps with browning.
- Pumpkin puree gives moisture and a rich pumpkin taste.
- Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.
- Pumpkin pie spice brings warmth and fall flavor.
- Sea salt balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar can be added for extra sweetness, if desired.
Nutritional Information
This granola is not just tasty; it is also nutritious.
- One serving contains about 200 calories.
- It has 5 grams of protein and 8 grams of healthy fats.
- The fiber content is around 4 grams, which is great for digestion.
- It is rich in vitamins and minerals from pumpkin and nuts.
This pumpkin spice granola is a perfect blend of taste and health. You can enjoy it as a snack or for breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps the granola cook evenly. Next, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes clean-up easy and helps prevent sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, and shredded coconut. Stir them together well. This mix gives the granola its crunchy base. Now, add the pumpkin pie spice and sea salt. Mix everything again until it is combined.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Make sure it’s smooth. This mixture adds moisture and sweetness to your granola. Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold everything together. If you’d like it sweeter, add the brown sugar and mix until it’s gone.
Baking the Granola
Spread the granola mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Use the back of the spatula to press it down. This helps form clumps, which is key for crunch. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. Stir it halfway through to ensure even cooking. Watch it closely near the end. It can brown quickly!
Cooling and Storing
When the granola is golden and smells great, take it out of the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is very important for that perfect crunch. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature to keep it fresh.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To get that perfect crunch in your pumpkin spice granola, follow these steps:
- Use rolled oats, as they hold their shape well.
- Press the mixture down on the baking sheet. This helps to form clumps.
- Stir halfway through baking for even browning.
- Let it cool completely before breaking it into pieces. Cooling is key!
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can easily swap some ingredients without losing flavor.
- Use sunflower seeds instead of pumpkin seeds.
- Swap coconut oil for olive oil if you prefer.
- For a nut-free option, leave out the pecans and add more seeds.
- You can replace maple syrup with honey or agave syrup.
Enhancing Flavor Options
Want to make your granola even tastier? Here are some ideas:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Include chocolate chips after baking for a sweet touch.
- Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for chewiness.
- Try using different spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for a twist.
These tips will help you create a granola that is not only tasty but also crunchy and fun!
Variations
Adding Dried Fruits
You can add dried fruits to your pumpkin spice granola for extra flavor. Dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots work well. Use about 1 cup of dried fruits. Stir them in after mixing the wet and dry ingredients. This step adds natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Incorporating Different Nuts
Feel free to mix in other nuts for a unique twist. Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts can enhance the crunch. Use about 1 cup of chopped nuts in place of or alongside the pecans. Each nut gives a different taste and texture, making your granola special.
Making It Gluten-Free
To make this granola gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats. They ensure no cross-contamination. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat without worry. Just make sure to double-check all labels for gluten-free certification.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your pumpkin spice granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. Use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. Place it in a cool, dry area. Avoid direct sunlight or moisture. This helps to keep the granola crunchy and tasty.
Recommended Shelf Life
When stored properly, this granola can last up to two weeks at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. The flavors stay great, and it remains crunchy even after freezing.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your granola, allow it to cool completely first. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just take out what you need and let it thaw at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious granola anytime!
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pumpkin. It makes the process easier. Just ensure you choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Canned pumpkin provides a smooth texture and rich flavor. It saves time and gives great results.
How can I make this granola vegan?
To make this granola vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based. You can also use coconut oil, which is vegan. This keeps the sweet and crunchy taste while meeting vegan needs.
What are some serving suggestions for pumpkin spice granola?
You can enjoy this granola in many ways. Here are some ideas:
- Serve it over yogurt for a tasty breakfast.
- Mix it into smoothies for added crunch.
- Top it on oatmeal for extra flavor.
- Enjoy it as a snack on its own.
- Pair it with milk or a milk alternative for a quick treat.
These options let you enjoy the flavors in different ways.
In this post, we explored the key ingredients for making tasty granola. Each ingredient plays a vital role in flavor and nutrition. We covered step-by-step instructions for preparing and baking the granola. You learned tips for a perfect crunch and flavor enhances. We also discussed variations, storage methods, and answered common questions.
Granola is simple to make and fun to customize. Experiment with your favorite flavors and share it with others. Enjoy your delicious homemade granola!
![- 2 cups canned chickpeas - Fresh herbs: parsley and cilantro - Key spices: cumin and coriander To make crispy baked falafel, start with the main ingredients. The base is 2 cups of canned chickpeas. They give falafel a wonderful texture. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add bright flavors. Using both gives a fresh taste. Spices are key too. Ground cumin and coriander bring warmth and depth. They create a balance that makes falafel special. - Aromatics: onion and garlic - Binding ingredients: tahini and breadcrumbs - Optional: olive oil for drizzling Next, we have additional ingredients. Aromatics like onion and garlic make the falafel smell great. They add a savory note that enhances the dish. Binding ingredients are also important. Tahini helps hold everything together. Breadcrumbs add crunch and structure. If you want a golden and crispy finish, drizzle olive oil on top. It helps the falafel bake evenly and get that perfect crunch. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. 3. In a food processor, add the drained chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and tahini. 4. Pulse the mixture. You want it well combined but still chunky, like a paste. 1. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. 2. Fold in the breadcrumbs. If it feels wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together. 3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of golf balls. 4. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. 1. Drizzle a good amount of olive oil over the falafel balls. This helps them get crispy. 2. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. 3. Look for a golden brown color and a crispy outside. 4. Let the falafel cool for a few minutes before serving. This enhances their flavor and texture. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions provided earlier. To make your falafel crispy, olive oil plays a key role. It adds flavor and helps create a golden crust. I suggest drizzling olive oil on top of your falafel before baking. This not only enhances the taste but also promotes even cooking. Baking techniques matter too. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results. Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking. This will help the falafel stay intact and crisp up nicely. Adjusting the breadcrumbs is also important. If your mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together. If you want extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs. They give a delightful texture that enhances the overall experience. For a beautiful presentation, arrange your crispy baked falafel on a colorful platter. Pair it with a creamy tahini sauce and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. This adds both flavor and visual appeal. You might also want to serve it with warm pita bread. Add a side of hummus or tzatziki for a fun dip. These flavors complement the falafel well and make for a tasty meal. One common mistake is not achieving the right consistency. If your falafel falls apart during baking, it may be too wet. Always ensure your mixture holds together well. Adjust breadcrumbs as needed to fix this. Another mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. Give each falafel space to bake evenly. This helps them crisp up nicely. Flip them halfway through baking for even browning. Finally, don’t skip the cooling step. Let the falafel cool for a few minutes after baking. This enhances their flavor and texture, making your dish even more delightful. For the full recipe, you can refer to the detailed guide above. {{image_4}} You can make falafel even more exciting by adding spices. Try mixing in smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor. If you want a brighter taste, add some zest from a lemon. You might also enjoy using fresh herbs like mint or dill for a fresh twist. Each region has its own spin, so feel free to experiment! For those who need gluten-free options, you can swap breadcrumbs with ground oats or almond flour. Both work well and keep the falafel together. If you want to make it vegan, just skip the tahini or use sunflower seed butter instead. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites! While baking gives falafel a nice crunch, you can try air frying them for a quicker option. Air-frying uses less oil and cooks them evenly. You can also pan-fry them in a little oil for golden-brown goodness. Just make sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above to make your crispy baked falafel! To store leftover falafel, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. If you have sauce, store it separately. Leftover falafel stays tasty for about three to four days in the fridge. For freezing, let the falafel cool completely first. Then, space them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. To reheat, bake them directly from the freezer. Heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy. In the fridge, your leftover falafel will last about three to four days. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Just remember to seal them well to avoid freezer burn. Enjoy your crispy baked falafel whenever you want with these easy storage tips. For the full recipe, check back to create these delicious bites! Crispy baked falafel pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with: - Hummus for a creamy dip - Tahini sauce for added flavor - Tzatziki sauce for a cool touch - Fresh salads like cucumber-tomato salad - Pita bread for a classic wrap These options enhance the meal and add fresh tastes. To achieve extra crispy falafel, follow these tips: - Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They add more crunch. - Drizzle olive oil generously over the falafel before baking. This helps with browning. - Bake at 400°F (200°C) for the best crispiness. Flip them halfway for even cooking. These small changes can make a big difference in texture. Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Here’s how: - Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight in water. This softens them. - Drain and rinse the chickpeas before using them in the recipe. - Cook them in boiling water for about 1 hour until tender. Using dried chickpeas gives a fresher taste but takes more time. For the complete details on making crispy baked falafel, check out the [Full Recipe]. Baked falafel is easy and fun to make. By using canned chickpeas, fresh herbs, and key spices like cumin, you create a tasty dish. Follow the steps for perfect shapes, timing, and crunch. Remember to use olive oil and adjust breadcrumbs for crispiness. Play with flavors and storage tips to maximize your enjoyment. With this guide, you can make falafel that delights and satisfies. Now, you're ready to impress friends and family with your delicious creation!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/049364cc-9d10-4f08-b8d2-88a9c6614eda-768x768.webp)
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