Maple Pecan Granola Recipe: A Nutritious Breakfast Delight
Looking for a wholesome and delightful way to kickstart your morning? This Maple Pecan Granola Recipe is the perfect choice to energize your day. With its combination of nuts, oats, and dried fruits, it provides a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavors. This homemade granola is not only great as a cereal or mixed into yogurt, but it also stores well, making it a convenient option for busy mornings. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Yield and Time
This recipe is designed to yield 10 cups of granola, providing approximately 20 servings, making it great for families or meal prep enthusiasts. The preparation time is quick, requiring just a 10-minute prep, a 35-minute bake, and an additional 15 minutes of cooling, resulting in a total of 1 hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft this delightful Maple Pecan Granola Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
– 6 cups old-fashioned oats
– 1½ cups finely chopped pecans
– ½ cup finely chopped almonds
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– ½ cup pure maple syrup
– ⅓ cup boiling water
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– ¾ cup minced dates
– ¾ cup minced raisins
– ⅔ cup minced dried cranberries
Instructions to Create Your Granola
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, finely chopped pecans, and almonds. Mix them well to ensure an even distribution of nuts.
- In a separate bowl, blend the vegetable oil, pure maple syrup, boiling water, cinnamon, and ground cardamom. Stir until fully combined.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring well until the oats and nuts are evenly coated with the sweet and spiced syrup.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, stirring every 10-12 minutes to ensure even toasting. The granola should be golden brown when finished.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This ensures the granola achieves that delightful crunch.
- Once cooled, mix in the minced dates, minced raisins, and minced dried cranberries. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the finished granola to an airtight container for storage.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This Maple Pecan Granola Recipe is rich in nutrients. The oats are a great source of fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion. Pecans and almonds provide healthy fats and protein, which are vital for sustained energy. The incorporation of pure maple syrup instead of refined sugars adds a touch of sweetness while maintaining a natural approach. Additionally, dried fruits like raisins and cranberries offer antioxidants and boost immunity.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing this granola in an airtight container ensures it remains fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. Serve it with yogurt for a protein-rich breakfast, or simply enjoy it as a cereal with your favorite milk. You can also sprinkle it over a fruit salad for a satisfying snack.
FAQs and Related Searches
Question: Do you add dried fruit to granola before or after baking?
For the best texture and taste, add dried fruit after baking. This prevents the fruit from becoming overly dry or tough during the baking process.
Question: Is granola with dried fruit healthy?
Granola with dried fruit can be a healthy option if made with natural ingredients and eaten in moderation. It provides essential nutrients from oats, nuts, and fruits. However, be mindful of added sugars and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Granola
In conclusion, this Maple Pecan Granola Recipe is a delightful way to incorporate a nutritious and convenient breakfast option into your daily routine. Its rich flavors and health benefits make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. Try it today, and experience the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and satisfaction!
