Maple Pecan Granola Clusters Healthy Crunchy Snack

Looking for a tasty and healthy snack? Maple Pecan Granola Clusters are the answer! Packed with crunchy goodness, these clusters are easy to make and fun to eat. You’ll love how simple the steps are, along with a few tricks to ensure your granola comes out just right. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying snack that’s perfect for any time of day! Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Maple Pecan Granola Clusters

To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters, you need these main ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats

– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped

– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients create a great mix of flavors and textures. The oats add a chewy base. The pecans bring crunch and healthy fats. Pumpkin seeds add extra crunch and nutrients. Coconut gives a hint of sweetness.

Optional Add-ins

You can also include optional add-ins to enhance the flavor. Consider adding:

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries

– 1/2 cup raisins

These add-ins give a touch of sweetness and chewiness. They pair well with the crunchy clusters.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Each serving of these granola clusters has about:

– Calories: 200

– Protein: 5g

– Fat: 10g

– Carbohydrates: 27g

– Fiber: 3g

– Sugar: 6g

This snack is healthy and satisfying. It’s a great choice for breakfast or a quick nibble. Enjoy them as a topping on yogurt or just by the handful!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet

First, set your oven to 325°F (163°C). This helps the granola bake evenly. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.

Combining Dry Ingredients

Take a large bowl and add the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, and shredded coconut. Then, sprinkle in the sea salt and ground cinnamon. Mix everything well. This step ensures each bite is full of flavor.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This blend adds sweetness and richness to the granola.

Forming and Baking the Clusters

Now, pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is coated. If you want to add dried cranberries or raisins, fold them in gently. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet, pressing it down firmly to form clusters. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Cooling and Storing the Granola

Once baked, remove the granola from the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will harden into crunchy clusters. After cooling, break it into pieces and store them in an airtight container. This granola stays fresh for up to two weeks. Enjoy it as a snack or on yogurt!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve Perfect Clusters

To get those perfect clusters, you need to press the mixture down firmly. When you spread the granola on the baking sheet, use a spatula to pack it tight. This helps the granola stick together as it bakes. Bake it until it’s golden brown, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking, but don’t break the clusters apart yet. Let it cool completely on the sheet. As it cools, it will harden and form those lovely clusters.

Substitutions for Ingredients

You can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste or what you have. If you don’t have pecans, try walnuts or almonds instead. Unsweetened coconut can be replaced with chopped dates for a chewy texture. Instead of pumpkin seeds, you can use sunflower seeds. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more maple syrup. You can also change the spices. Instead of cinnamon, try nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor.

Storing Your Granola Effectively

To keep your granola fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will help it stay crunchy longer. Place it in a cool, dry area, away from heat or moisture. If you want to keep it even longer, you can store it in the fridge. The granola can last up to two weeks, but I bet it won’t last that long! Enjoy it as a snack, in yogurt, or on top of smoothies.

Variations

Maple Pecan Granola with Chocolate Chips

You can easily add chocolate chips to your maple pecan granola. Simply mix in 1/2 cup of dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips after baking. The warm granola will help melt the chips slightly, making a tasty treat. This adds a rich flavor and a touch of sweetness. Chocolate also pairs well with the nutty pecans and maple syrup.

Spiced Granola Clusters

For a warm twist, add spices like nutmeg or ginger. Use 1/4 teaspoon of each for a cozy flavor. You can also try a pinch of cayenne for heat. This variation gives the clusters a unique taste and a lovely aroma while baking. The spices will blend well with the oats and pecans, making every bite special.

Nut-Free Options

If you want a nut-free version, swap out pecans for sunflower seeds or extra pumpkin seeds. Use 1 cup of seeds in total. This keeps the crunch while being safe for those with nut allergies. You can still enjoy the same great flavors and textures in your granola clusters. The recipe remains tasty and satisfying without nuts.

Loading FAQ Section

How do I make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters vegan?

To make Maple Pecan Granola Clusters vegan, use plant-based ingredients. Replace the honey with pure maple syrup. You can also use coconut oil, as it is vegan-friendly. In this recipe, all the ingredients are already vegan. So, simply stick to the list. Enjoy these tasty treats without worry!

Can I freeze Maple Pecan Granola Clusters?

Yes, you can freeze Maple Pecan Granola Clusters. Place the cooled clusters in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature. They will taste fresh and crunchy!

What’s the best way to enjoy Maple Pecan Granola Clusters?

You can enjoy Maple Pecan Granola Clusters in many ways. Eat them as a snack straight from the jar. Add them to yogurt or smoothie bowls for extra crunch. They also make a great topping for ice cream. You can even sprinkle them on salads for added texture. The options are endless!

Where to Purchase

Online Retailers for Maple Pecan Granola

You can find Maple Pecan Granola online at many stores. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and Walmart offer great options. Search for brands that focus on natural ingredients. You can buy in bulk to save money. Look for products with no added sugars or preservatives.

Local Health Food Stores

Check your nearby health food stores for Maple Pecan Granola. Stores like Whole Foods often carry them. Look in the snack aisle or bulk section. Ask staff for help if you can’t find it. Many local shops also sell homemade granola. Supporting local businesses is a great idea!

Specialty Granola Brands

Some brands focus on granola and offer unique flavors. Look for brands like Nature Valley or Bear Naked. They often sell Maple Pecan Granola in fun cluster shapes. You can also try artisan brands at farmer’s markets. They may have special blends with local maple syrup. These options add a personal touch to your snack.

In this post, we learned to make tasty Maple Pecan Granola Clusters. We looked at the main ingredients and optional add-ins, plus their nutrition facts. The step-by-step guide makes it easy to form and bake perfect clusters. Helpful tips, variations, and FAQs ensure your granola suits your needs.

Try these clusters as a snack or breakfast treat. Enjoy customizing them to make them your own. With simple steps, you can create something delicious and healthy. Grab your ingredients and get starte