Name: Maple Pumpkin Granola: Your Cozy Fall Breakfast Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Coconut Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter.); 1/3 cup Maple Syrup (Honey or agave nectar can be used as vegan alternatives.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.); 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (Avoid instant oats.); 1/2 cup Unsweetened Coconut Flakes (Chopped nuts can be substituted.); 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans (Substitute with walnuts or almonds if preferred.); 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds (Can be omitted or replaced with sunflower seeds.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can be replaced with a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.); 1/2 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt or Table Salt (Adjust to taste.)

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As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, I can’t help but crave the comforting flavors of autumn. Enter my Maple Pumpkin Granola—your new secret weapon for a quick and healthy breakfast! This delightful recipe is not only easy to whip up but also vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone looking to spice up their morning routine or snack time. With real pumpkin, luscious maple syrup, and a delightful crunch from nuts, each bite captures the heart of the season. The best part? Your kitchen will be enveloped in an irresistible aroma while it bakes, inviting everyone to gather around for a taste. What toppings will you pair it with to make it even more special?

Why Maple Pumpkin Granola Is Irresistible?

Deliciously Festive: Each bite of this granola bursts with the cozy flavors of fall, making it a perfect seasonal treat.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a wholesome breakfast ready in no time—ideal for busy mornings!
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Enjoy guilt-free snacking without compromising on taste, appealing to health-conscious eaters.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with yogurt, milk, or even as a topping for your favorite smoothie bowl for an extra boost!
Aroma of Home: The warm, inviting scent while it bakes will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in right away. You might also like serving it with a side of delightful Baked Maple Donut for a sweet pairing!

Maple Pumpkin Granola Ingredients

• To create your cozy Maple Pumpkin Granola, gather these wonderful ingredients!

For the Base

Coconut Oil – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; you can substitute it with vegetable oil or melted butter.
Maple Syrup – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; honey or agave nectar work as vegan alternatives.
Pumpkin Puree – Gives flavor and moisture for an enhanced texture; use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – The heart of the granola, providing chewiness; avoid instant oats as they won’t hold up as well.

For the Crunch

Unsweetened Coconut Flakes – Adds chewiness and flavor; you can swap these for chopped nuts if desired.
Chopped Pecans – Introduces a delightful crunch and nuttiness; substitute with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
Pumpkin Seeds – Provides extra crunch and nutrition; these can be omitted or replaced with sunflower seeds if needed.

For the Flavor

Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses that warm spice flavor essential for fall; if unavailable, mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves as a substitute.
Flaked Sea Salt or Table Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste, especially when using table salt to avoid over-salting.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to whipping up this irresistible Maple Pumpkin Granola together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Pumpkin Granola

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This initial step sets the stage for your Maple Pumpkin Granola to bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Melt Coconut Oil and Maple Syrup
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine coconut oil and maple syrup. Microwave this mixture for about 30 to 60 seconds until melted; stir until smooth and thoroughly blended. This will create a deliciously sweet base that enhances the overall flavor of your granola.

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin Puree
Next, add the pumpkin puree to your melted coconut oil and maple syrup mixture. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined and create a creamy blend. The richness of the pumpkin will add depth to your Maple Pumpkin Granola, making it both flavorful and moist.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to introduce the rest of the dry ingredients! Add the old-fashioned rolled oats, coconut flakes, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and flaked sea salt to the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout your granola.

Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Once combined, spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps ensure it bakes uniformly. Try to keep the mixture loosely packed for the best clumping results, which will enhance the crunchy texture of your Maple Pumpkin Granola as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake to Crunch Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir the granola halfway through baking to promote even browning. You’ll know it’s done when it’s lightly browned and fragrant, filling your kitchen with the cozy scent of fall.

Step 7: Cool for Crispness
After baking, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial, as it allows the granola to firm up and achieve that delightful crunch we all love in Maple Pumpkin Granola.

Step 8: Break and Store
Once fully cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Transfer your delicious Maple Pumpkin Granola to an airtight container, where it can be stored at room temperature. This ensures each hearty bite stays fresh and crunchy for your indulgent breakfasts and snacks.

Maple Pumpkin Granola: Customize Your Creation

Feel free to get creative with your Maple Pumpkin Granola—there’s no wrong way to make it your own!

Add-ins: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins after baking for a fruity twist. The burst of sweetness from the dried fruits beautifully complements the warm spices.
Nut-Free Version: Omit nuts or substitute with seeds such as sunflower or hemp seeds to keep it nut-free. This helps maintain the same delightful crunch without allergens.
Spice Changes: Experiment with cardamom or vanilla to add new dimensions of flavor to your granola. A dash of cardamom can bring an exotic warmth that elevates the classic taste.
Crunchy Clusters: For even bigger clusters, lightly press the granola down on the baking sheet before baking. This little trick transforms your granola into delicious, satisfying clumps.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup amount for a sweeter or less sweet profile—tailor it to your taste! You might enjoy a drizzle of maple syrup over yogurt or alongside a lovely Baked Maple Donut for that extra sweetness.
Cinnamon Roll Flavor: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or brown sugar before baking to capture the essence of a cinnamon roll in every bowl. The warm spices fused with the crunch create an indulgently cozy experience.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in dark chocolate chips after baking for a decadent touch. The melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin and maple flavors, creating a treat you won’t want to share.
Flavorful Seeds: Use chia or flaxseeds for added nutrition and a delightful crunch. These little seeds not only boost the health factor but also add a unique texture that everyone will love!

What to Serve with Maple Pumpkin Granola

Imagine a cozy morning, the aroma of baked granola dancing in the air, as you create the perfect breakfast spread to accompany your delightful Maple Pumpkin Granola.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek or dairy-free yogurt adds a tangy richness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the granola.
Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy, berries like blueberries or raspberries introduce a burst of freshness that complements the warm pumpkin flavors.
Banana Slices: Sweet, creamy bananas offer a filling, nutritious twist while enhancing the comforting texture of your breakfast.
Almond Milk: Pour over your granola for a creamy finish that keeps the heartiness intact and rounds out the delightful experience.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter introduces a velvety nuttiness, enriching the flavors and adding healthy fats.
Chilled Smoothie Bowl: Top your granola on a smoothie bowl filled with fruits and greens for a vibrant, nutrient-packed breakfast.
Coconut Chia Pudding: For an extra layer of indulgence, layer your granola with rich coconut chia pudding for a satisfying crunch and creaminess.
Applesauce: Serve alongside applesauce for a refreshing, fruity contrast to the rich taste of maple and pumpkin.
Hot Coffee or Herbal Tea: Enjoy your granola with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea, creating a cozy meal perfect for leisurely mornings.

How to Store and Freeze Maple Pumpkin Granola

Airtight Container: Store your Maple Pumpkin Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze granola in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Avoid Humidity: Keep granola away from humidity and moisture to prevent it from becoming soft. Once cooled, ensure it’s sealed tightly for the best texture.

Reheating: If your granola loses some crunch, simply spread it on a baking sheet and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes to revive its crispy goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Pumpkin Granola clusters are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can mix all the dry ingredients—such as oats, coconut flakes, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin pie spice—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness and flavor. On the day you plan to enjoy your granola, just combine it with the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree, bake as instructed, and allow it to cool completely for maximum crunch. This way, you’ll have a homemade breakfast or snack ready in no time, making weekday mornings a breeze!

Expert Tips for Maple Pumpkin Granola

Cooling is Key: Allow granola to cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve a perfect crunchy texture; it will soften if stored while warm.
Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to reduce the maple syrup for less sweetness or add more nuts for a deeper flavor in your Maple Pumpkin Granola.
Storage Savvy: Keep your granola in a cool, dry place. If it loses its crispness, leave the container slightly open for a few hours to revive the crunch.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or vanilla to customize your Maple Pumpkin Granola to your taste preferences.
Nut-Free Option: To make it nut-free, omit all nuts or replace them with additional seeds, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for the granola?
Absolutely! You should use plain pumpkin puree for the Maple Pumpkin Granola. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the final flavor. Look for 100% pure pumpkin puree on the label for the best results.

How can I store my Maple Pumpkin Granola?
I often store my Maple Pumpkin Granola in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. To maintain its wonderful crunch, make sure to keep it in a cool, dry spot, away from humidity. If it starts to lose its crispiness, you can leave the container slightly open for a few hours to revive it!

Can I freeze Maple Pumpkin Granola?
Yes, you definitely can! To freeze it, transfer the cooled granola to a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply take it out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have that crunchy goodness back in no time.

What should I do if my granola isn’t crispy after baking?
Very! If your granola isn’t crisping up as expected, it might be due to not cooling it completely or possibly adding too much moisture. To fix it, spread the granola out on a baking sheet and put it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This gentle heat will help remove excess moisture and restore its delightful crunch.

Can I modify Maple Pumpkin Granola to be nut-free?
Absolutely! If you want a nut-free version of Maple Pumpkin Granola, you can simply omit the chopped pecans entirely or replace them with additional seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty and safe snack without worrying about nut allergies.

How do I choose ripe ingredients like pumpkin and nuts for the granola?
Great question! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for lines that specify “100% pumpkin”; the color should be vibrant and deep orange. For nuts, I recommend choosing fresh, whole nuts without any dark spots or rancid smells, ensuring they are crisp and flavorful for that perfect crunch in your Maple Pumpkin Granola.