Golden Maple Pecan Granola: Simple Crunchy Bliss

13 de September de 2025

Golden maple pecan granola has a way of making mornings feel special, even on a Tuesday. I remember the first time I successfully made a batch of homemade golden maple pecan granola myself; the aroma of toasted oats, warm maple, and nutty pecans filled my kitchen, promising a delicious start to the day. It’s that comforting scent and the satisfying crunch that makes this recipe a winner. This crunchy maple pecan granola is so much better than store-bought, and I can’t wait to share my simple method with you. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Golden Maple Pecan Granola

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons! It’s incredibly versatile and delivers pure breakfast bliss.

It’s a wonderfully healthy maple pecan granola option for kickstarting your day.
You’ll achieve that perfect crunchy maple pecan granola texture every time.
Making it homemade means you control the ingredients, no weird additives here!
The sweet, nutty aroma alone is worth the effort.
It’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples like oats and nuts.
It’s customizable – add your favorite dried fruits or seeds!
This recipe is surprisingly simple and doesn’t require fancy equipment.
It makes a beautiful edible gift for friends and family.

Maple Pecan Granola Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful maple pecan oat granola. You’ll need wholesome rolled oats, which provide a fantastic base and satisfying chew, and plenty of crunchy pecans for that signature nutty flavor. We’ll also add unsweetened shredded coconut for extra texture and a tropical hint. The magic comes from pure maple syrup and melted coconut oil, which coat everything beautifully and help create those coveted clusters. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness, while salt balances the flavors. Cinnamon adds warmth, and optional dried cranberries or pumpkin seeds can add extra pops of flavor and nutrition. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the optional items; the core ingredients create a delicious granola on their own!

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats – the hearty base of our granola
1 cup pecans, chopped – for that essential nutty crunch
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut – adds texture and a subtle sweetness
1/2 cup pure maple syrup – the natural sweetener that binds everything
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted – helps create clusters and adds a hint of richness
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and brings out flavors
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – for a warm, comforting spice
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) – for bursts of chewy sweetness
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional) – adds extra crunch and nutrients

Golden Maple Pecan Granola: Simple Crunchy Bliss - Golden Maple Pecan Granola - additional detail

How to Make Golden Maple Pecan Granola

Let’s dive into creating this delicious, easy maple pecan granola recipe! It’s truly a straightforward process, and you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve that perfect, oven-baked maple pecan granola texture right in your own kitchen. This method guarantees a wonderfully crunchy result every time.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven is warming up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring even baking.
Step 2: In a big mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients: the 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, the 1 cup chopped pecans, the 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, the 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. You’ll need the 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, the 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, and the 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until they are well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Now, pour that lovely wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to stir everything together until all the oats, nuts, and coconut are beautifully coated. You want everything to look glistening and delicious.
Step 5: Spread the granola mixture evenly onto your prepared baking sheet. I like to press it down gently but firmly with my spatula. This helps create those satisfying, larger clusters that are so delightful to bite into.
Step 6: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, give it a stir to ensure even browning. You’re looking for a lovely golden brown color, and the kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 7: Once it’s golden, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. The most important part for crunch: let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet without touching it. As it cools, it will harden and become wonderfully crunchy.
Step 8: After it has cooled entirely, if you’re adding them, gently stir in your 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins.
Step 9: Finally, break up any large clumps if desired and transfer your glorious homemade golden maple pecan granola into an airtight container for storage. Enjoy this easy maple pecan granola recipe!

Pro Tips for the Best Golden Maple Pecan Granola

Want to elevate your homemade granola game? These simple tips will ensure your golden maple pecan granola is absolutely perfect every time, giving you that sought-after crunchy texture and delicious flavor.

For larger, more substantial clusters, press the granola mixture down firmly onto the baking sheet before baking. This is key to achieving that satisfying bite.
Don’t be tempted to stir the granola too often while it bakes. Let it sit for longer intervals to allow it to toast and crisp up properly.
Always let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it apart. This is the secret to getting it truly crunchy.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds, or add seeds like sunflower or chia seeds for extra texture and nutrition.

What’s the secret to perfect golden maple pecan granola?

The secret lies in the low oven temperature and allowing the granola to cool undisturbed. This gentle baking and cooling process is what transforms the mixture into delightful clusters, creating an artisan maple pecan granola that’s incredibly satisfying. For more breakfast inspiration, check out our latest recipes.

Can I make golden maple pecan granola ahead of time?

Absolutely! This granola is perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. It’s always ready when you need a quick and healthy breakfast or snack. If you’re looking for other quick breakfast ideas, consider our crab omelet.

How do I avoid common mistakes with crunchy maple pecan granola?

The most common mistake is stirring too much, which breaks up clusters. Also, try not to overbake; it can make the granola bitter. Ensure it cools completely on the pan for maximum crunch. For more baking tips, you might find our guide on homemade baking helpful.

Golden Maple Pecan Granola: Simple Crunchy Bliss - Golden Maple Pecan Granola - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Golden Maple Pecan Granola

This versatile golden maple pecan granola is fantastic in so many ways! It’s perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast, especially when paired with creamy Greek yogurt or a bowl of your favorite milk. Try it as a delightful topping for smoothie bowls, adding both texture and sweetness. It also makes a wonderful, healthy snack on its own. For a more substantial meal, consider it as a topping for fruit salads or even sprinkled over baked apples. This maple pecan breakfast granola truly elevates any dish it touches, making your mornings brighter and more delicious. For a similar wholesome option, try our chickpea recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Golden Maple Pecan Granola

This delicious granola is a great way to fuel your day! Enjoying a serving of this homemade golden maple pecan granola provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 4g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy eating tips, explore our super healthy recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Golden Maple Pecan Granola

Proper homemade granola storage is key to keeping this delicious golden maple pecan granola perfectly crunchy and fresh. Once your granola has completely cooled on the baking sheet – and I cannot stress enough how important this step is for texture! – you’ll want to transfer it to an airtight container. For everyday enjoyment, store it at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you’ve made a big batch and want it to last even longer, your freezer is your best friend. Wrap it well, perhaps in a freezer bag with the air pressed out, and it will stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it after freezing, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. There’s generally no need to reheat this granola, as its charm is in its delightful crunch, but if you prefer it warm, a quick 30-second zap in the microwave should do the trick.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golden Maple Pecan Granola

What is golden maple pecan granola?

Golden maple pecan granola is a delightful homemade breakfast cereal or snack made primarily from rolled oats, toasted pecans, and natural maple syrup, baked until golden brown and crunchy. It’s known for its sweet, nutty flavor profile and satisfying texture, making it a popular choice for those seeking a wholesome start to their day. For more information on oats, you can check out resources on oats and heart health.

Why is maple pecan granola healthy?

This maple pecan granola is considered healthy because it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, which provide fiber for digestion and sustained energy. The pecans offer healthy fats and protein, and when sweetened with natural maple syrup instead of refined sugars, it’s a more nutritious option. It’s a fantastic way to get complex carbohydrates and healthy fats in one delicious bowl.

Can I make this granola gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this golden maple pecan granola gluten-free! Simply ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats. All the other ingredients, like pecans, maple syrup, and coconut oil, are naturally gluten-free, so swapping out the oats is the only change needed.

How should I store my homemade golden maple pecan granola?

Proper storage is key to maintaining the crunch. Once completely cooled, transfer your granola to an airtight container and keep it at room temperature. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, though it often disappears much faster!

Variations of Golden Maple Pecan Granola You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you’ll love experimenting with different twists on this delicious golden maple pecan granola. It’s so adaptable! For a gluten-free maple pecan granola, simply swap the old-fashioned rolled oats for certified gluten-free rolled oats. If you’re looking for a dairy-free or plant-based option, this recipe is already nearly perfect; ensure your coconut oil is solid at room temperature and you’re set for a wonderful vegan maple pecan granola. You can also play with flavors by adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg along with the cinnamon, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey crunch. Consider adding other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or different seeds such as sunflower or chia seeds, for even more texture and nutritional variety in your homemade granola. For more vegan ideas, explore our vegan recipes.