Looking for a simple, tasty breakfast option? Let me introduce you to Maple Cinnamon Granola. This recipe is easy to follow and uses delicious ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, and maple syrup. You won’t just enjoy it for breakfast; it’s perfect as a snack or topping for yogurt. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps and share tips to make your granola a hit. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet maple syrup paired with warm cinnamon creates a comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences, making it versatile for everyone.
- Healthy Snack Option: This granola is packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a nutritious energy boost any time of day.
- Simple Preparation: With minimal steps and ingredients, this recipe is quick to make, allowing you to enjoy homemade granola in no time!
Ingredients
To make maple cinnamon granola, gather these simple ingredients:
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), for mixing in after baking
Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. The rolled oats form the base. They give the granola its heartiness. Nuts add crunch and healthy fats, while pumpkin seeds boost nutrition. Unsweetened shredded coconut lends a chewy texture and tropical taste.
Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and a lovely maple flavor. The melted coconut oil helps the granola clump together while adding richness. Vanilla extract enhances the overall taste. Ground cinnamon brings warmth and a cozy aroma. Salt balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and adds depth. Finally, the dried fruits add sweetness and chewiness, making every bite delightful.
With these ingredients, you can create a delicious, homemade granola that is perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the granola bake evenly.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix everything together.
3. Combine wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth. This mixture gives your granola its sweet flavor.
4. Coat dry ingredients with syrup mixture
Pour the syrup mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well-coated. This step makes sure every bite is tasty.
5. Bake granola mixture
Spread the mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet. Make sure it lies flat for even baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch it closely towards the end to prevent burning.
6. Cool and add dried fruits
Once golden and fragrant, take the granola out of the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crunchy as it cools. After it cools, mix in your dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots.
This simple method creates a delightful maple cinnamon granola that you can enjoy anytime!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Preventing burning: Watch your granola closely in the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary.
– Evenly spreading granola: Spread the mixture in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps it bake evenly.
– Mixing halfway through baking: Stir the granola halfway through the baking time. This allows it to brown evenly and helps avoid clumps.
– Ensuring crunchiness: Let the granola cool completely after baking. It will get crunchier as it cools down.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adding spices: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Both spices make the flavor pop.
– Sweetness adjustments: If you like it sweeter, add a bit more maple syrup. Taste as you go to find your perfect level.
– Using flavored extracts: Try almond extract or maple extract for a twist. Just a few drops can change the flavor nicely.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh oats and nuts to ensure the best flavor and crunch in your granola.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to mix and match different nuts based on your preference or what you have on hand for a unique flavor.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the granola while it’s baking; it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly, especially towards the end.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or even a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile.
Variations
Dietary Preferences
Gluten-free options
You can easily make this granola gluten-free. Just use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This small change keeps the taste and crunch.
Vegan alternatives
To make this recipe vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup. You can also use coconut oil, which is already in the recipe. This makes it tasty and suitable for everyone.
Nut-free substitutions
If you have nut allergies, skip the nuts in the granola. Instead, add more seeds or extra coconut. This keeps your granola crunchy and full of flavor.
Flavor Combinations
Chocolate chip maple cinnamon granola
For a sweet twist, mix in some chocolate chips after baking. The warm granola will melt the chips just right, making each bite blissful.
Pumpkin spice granola
Add pumpkin spice blend instead of cinnamon. This gives your granola a cozy, autumn flavor. Mix it in with the dry ingredients for a perfect fall treat.
Tropical fruit granola
For a tropical kick, add dried mango or pineapple. Mix these fruits in after baking. This brightens up your granola and adds a fun, fruity flavor.
Storage Info
Optimal Storage Methods
To keep your maple cinnamon granola fresh, store it in airtight containers. This helps prevent air and moisture from getting in. You can keep it at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it. Just make sure the container is sealed tight to avoid any sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
You can enjoy this granola in many ways. For breakfast, try it in yogurt parfaits. Just layer it with yogurt and fresh fruit. You can also add it to smoothies for a nice crunch. As a snack, eat it plain or mix it with dried fruits. It makes a great on-the-go treat.
FAQs
How do I make maple cinnamon granola crunchy?
To make your granola crunchy, spread it evenly on the baking sheet. This helps it bake evenly. Stir the mixture halfway through baking. This ensures all parts get nice and toasty. Keep an eye on it as it bakes. You want a golden color, not burnt.
Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?
Yes, you can use honey instead of maple syrup. Both sweeteners add flavor. Honey will change the taste a bit, but it will still be good. Use the same amount of honey as maple syrup in the recipe.
How do I store homemade granola properly?
Store your granola in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. Make sure it is completely cool before sealing it. If you keep it at room temperature, it lasts longer.
Is maple cinnamon granola healthy?
Maple cinnamon granola can be healthy. It has whole grains from oats and healthy fats from nuts. The addition of seeds and dried fruits boosts nutrition. Just watch the portion size, as it can be calorie-dense.
How long does homemade granola last?
Homemade granola lasts about two weeks at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last longer. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious maple cinnamon granola. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and even shared tips for perfecting your bake. You learned how to customize flavors and cater to different diets with various variations.
Now, with the right storage tips, your granola can stay fresh longer. So, get ready to enjoy a tasty snack or breakfast. Making granola at home is simple, fun, and rewarding. Enjoy your homemade granola and happy snackin
