Pumpkin Spice Granola Crunchy and Flavorful Recipe

Are you ready for fall’s warm flavors in a crunchy snack? My Pumpkin Spice Granola recipe combines oats, nuts, and spices to create a delicious treat. With cozy notes of pumpkin and maple, this granola is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snacking. Plus, I’ll share tips for customizing it just how you like! Let’s dive in and get you crunching!
Ingredients
Essential Components
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
These ingredients create the base of your granola. Rolled oats give it a hearty texture. Chopped pecans add crunch and a rich flavor. Pumpkin seeds bring a nutty taste and a bit of protein. Dried cranberries give a sweet, tangy twist.
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
These wet ingredients bind everything together. Maple syrup adds sweetness. Canned pumpkin puree gives moisture and flavor. Coconut oil helps with crunch. Pumpkin pie spice adds warmth and fall vibes. Vanilla extract enhances the taste, and sea salt balances the sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins
You can mix in different nuts or dried fruits. Try walnuts or sunflower seeds for a twist. Dried apples or raisins can add more sweetness. Feel free to get creative! This granola is all about personal taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps the granola not stick to the sheet.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Stir these dry ingredients together until they mix well. This blend creates a crunchy base for your granola.
Preparing the Wet Mixture
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Make sure to mix thoroughly. This wet mixture adds flavor and moisture to the granola.
Combining Mixtures
Carefully pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in your large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir the mix. Ensure all the dry ingredients get coated with the pumpkin spice blend.
Baking Process
Transfer the granola mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Spread it out evenly. Press it down gently with the back of a spatula. This helps form clusters while baking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and a nice golden color.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the granola to cool completely on the sheet. As it cools, it will harden and become crunchy. After cooling, break the granola into clusters. Store your pumpkin spice granola in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Tips & Tricks
Storing Granola
To keep your pumpkin spice granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep air and moisture out. Place the container in a cool, dark place. Granola can last up to two weeks if stored correctly. If you want it to last longer, try freezing it. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer.
Achieving Perfect Clusters
To form crunchy clusters, press the granola mixture down before baking. Use the back of a spatula to pack it tightly. This compacting helps create those delightful clumps. Stir the mixture only halfway through baking. This way, clusters stay intact, and you get that perfect crunch.
Adjusting Sweetness and Spices
You can customize the sweetness and spice levels to match your taste. Start by adjusting the maple syrup. If you want it sweeter, add a little more. For less sweetness, cut back a bit. When it comes to spices, you can add more pumpkin pie spice if you love that flavor. For a twist, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Variations
Nut-Free Options
If you want a nut-free granola, simply swap nuts for seeds. You can use extra pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Both add crunch without nuts. Try using 1 cup of seeds to keep the texture rich. This keeps your granola safe for those with nut allergies.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make the granola gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats. Regular oats may have traces of gluten. Using these oats ensures everyone can enjoy your tasty treat. Check the labels to confirm they are certified gluten-free. This simple swap makes a big difference for those with gluten sensitivities.
Alternative Flavor Profiles
Want to mix up the flavor? Add other spices like cinnamon or ginger. You can also try using cardamom for a unique taste. For a sweeter twist, mix in some cacao powder or vanilla bean. These flavors pair well with pumpkin spice and give your granola a fresh spin. Experimenting with flavors can lead to new favorites!
Storage Info
Recommended Containers
To keep your pumpkin spice granola fresh, use an airtight container. Glass jars work well. You can also use plastic containers with tight lids. Avoid using bags, as air can sneak in. Store your granola in a cool, dark place. This will help it stay crunchy longer.
Shelf Life and Freezing Instructions
Your pumpkin spice granola lasts about two weeks at room temperature. You can keep it in the fridge for up to a month. For longer storage, freeze it! Place the granola in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want some, just thaw it at room temperature.
Reuse and Repurpose
If you have leftover granola, don’t worry. You can sprinkle it on yogurt or ice cream. It adds a nice crunch! You can also use it in baked goods like muffins or cookies. Try mixing it into your pancake or waffle batter for extra flavor. The options are endless!
FAQs
How do I make pumpkin spice granola from scratch?
To make pumpkin spice granola, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped pecans, 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds, and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Pour the wet mix over the dry ingredients and stir until coated. Spread the mixture on the baking sheet and press down. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway. Let it cool, then break into clusters.
Where can I buy pumpkin spice granola?
You can find pumpkin spice granola at many grocery stores, especially in the fall. Look in the breakfast aisle or health food section. Stores like Whole Foods, Target, or Walmart often carry it. You can also buy it online. Websites like Amazon or specialty food sites have many options.
What are the health benefits of pumpkin spice ingredients?
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C. It also has fiber, which helps digestion. Pecans are high in healthy fats and protein. Pumpkin seeds are full of magnesium and zinc. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, have antioxidants. They can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Can I substitute ingredients in pumpkin spice granola?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients. If you need a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds instead of pecans. You can swap maple syrup with honey or agave. If you don’t have pumpkin puree, try using applesauce. These changes may alter the taste, but they can still be tasty.
How do I make my granola crispy?
To make granola crispy, spread it evenly on the baking sheet. Press the mixture down gently to help it stick together. Stir halfway through baking to prevent burning. Bake until golden brown and let it cool completely. Cooling helps it harden and become crunchy.
This blog post covered how to make pumpkin spice granola. We discussed essential ingredients, including oats, nuts, and pumpkin. You learned clear steps, from mixing to baking, to create delicious clusters. We also shared tips for storing granola and customizing flavors.
In closing, this recipe is simple and adaptable. You can enjoy it your way, whether for breakfast or a snack. Try different ingredients to make this granola truly yours! Enjoy the crunchy goodness and the seasonal flavors it brings.
