Looking for a snack that’s crunchy, delicious, and healthy? You’ve come to the right place! My Maple Pecan Granola Clusters pack a nutty flavor and perfectly sweet crunch that makes them irresistible. This quick recipe uses simple ingredients like oats, pecans, and pure maple syrup. Plus, they’re perfect on their own or paired with yogurt. Get ready to treat yourself to this guilt-free snack!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: This granola is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, pecans, and coconut, making it a nutritious choice for breakfast or snacks.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer different nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be made in just over half an hour, perfect for busy mornings.
- Delicious Clusters: The combination of maple syrup and coconut oil helps create crunchy clusters that are irresistible and satisfying.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
I love using these ingredients for my Maple Pecan Granola Clusters. Rolled oats form the base, giving the clusters their hearty texture. Pecan nuts add a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with maple syrup.
The unsweetened shredded coconut gives a hint of sweetness and chewy texture. Coconut oil helps bind everything together while adding a subtle coconut taste. Sea salt enhances the sweetness of the maple syrup and balances the flavors.
Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth, making each bite satisfying. If you want a bit of indulgence, mini dark chocolate chips can be folded in for a sweet surprise.
This mix of ingredients creates a healthy snack that is both crunchy and delicious. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Enjoy mixing and matching!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). I like to line my baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the granola from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Stir these ingredients well. This mix is where the crunchy goodness starts.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
Whisk until smooth. This mixture adds sweetness and binds the granola.
Combine and Bake
Pour the wet mix over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is coated. Transfer this mixture to your lined baking sheet. Spread it out evenly and press it down firmly. This helps form those tasty clusters while baking.
Place your baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end. You want a golden brown color, not burnt!
Cooling and Breaking Clusters
Once baked, take the granola out of the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is key for clusters to form. When it’s cool, break the granola into clusters. If you want, add 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips at this stage. Enjoy your crunchy, healthy snack!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Granola Clusters
To get the best clusters, you need to press the mixture firmly. This compactness helps the granola stick together as it bakes. Use your hands or a spatula to really press it down on the baking sheet. If you want to avoid burning, set a timer for 20 minutes. Check your granola often in the last few minutes. It should be golden brown but not dark.
Enhancing Flavor
To make your granola even more delicious, think about adding spices. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor. You could also mix in vanilla extract or almond extract for a sweet twist. Don’t forget about seeds, too! Chia or flaxseeds can add a nice crunch and boost of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my granola clusters with yogurt. Just scoop some yogurt into a bowl and sprinkle the granola on top. You can also use milk if you prefer. For an extra treat, add fresh fruit like berries or banana slices. This makes a great breakfast or snack!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your nuts and oats are fresh for the best flavor and crunch in your granola clusters.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your preference; feel free to add more or less to suit your taste.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding dried fruits, seeds, or other nuts to the mixture for a different flavor and texture.
- Press for Clusters: Make sure to press the granola mixture firmly into the baking sheet before baking to achieve those coveted clusters.
Variations
Nut Alternatives
You can easily switch out pecans for other nuts. Almonds add a nice crunch. Walnuts provide a rich flavor. Cashews bring a creamy taste. Try mixing different nuts for a fun twist. You can even use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower if you want a nut-free option.
Sweetness Adjustments
If you prefer a different sweetness, honey works great. It adds a lovely golden color. Agave syrup is another choice. It has a mild flavor that blends well. Adjust the amount based on your taste. Start with less and add more if needed.
Add-ins
Get creative with add-ins to make your granola special. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries give a chewy texture. You can also try chopped dried apricots or figs. For added nutrition, sprinkle in some chia or flax seeds. These small seeds pack a big punch in nutrients.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
Store your granola clusters in an airtight container. Glass jars work well for this. They keep your snack fresh and crunchy. Avoid leaving granola exposed to air. This can make it stale quickly.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, your granola will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. If you notice any signs of moisture or smell, it’s best to toss it out.
Freezing Options
You can freeze your granola clusters for longer storage. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. They can still taste great after being frozen!
FAQs
Can I make granola clusters without chocolate chips?
Yes, you can easily skip the chocolate chips. Instead, try adding more nuts or seeds. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries works well, too. These swaps keep your granola tasty and fun.
How do I make my granola crunchier?
To achieve a crunchier texture, press down the mixture firmly on the baking sheet. Bake it until golden brown, but watch it closely to prevent burning. Letting it cool completely is key for crisp clusters.
Can I use rolled oats in other granola recipes?
Absolutely! Rolled oats are versatile. You can use them in many granola recipes. They add great texture and help bind your ingredients together. Feel free to mix and match with different nuts and flavors.
In this post, we explored making tasty granola clusters using simple ingredients and clear steps. You learned about mixing oats, nuts, and coconut, then baking them into crunchy bites. Remember to press the mix firmly for the best clusters. You can also adjust sweetness and try different nuts. Store your clusters in an airtight container for freshness. Enjoy them with yogurt or as a snack! This easy recipe offers many ways to make it your own. Happy cookin
