Hey there, my friend 👋. If you’re looking for a crunchy granola that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack, you’ve come to the right place. This pecan granola will make your mornings just a little bit brighter and a lot tastier. The best part? You can make it yourself in no time, and it’s packed with delicious flavors from those crispy pecans.
Now, let’s dive into what you need to make this crunchy pecan granola that’s sure to become your new favorite go-to treat!
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Important Info
- Servings: Makes about 4 servings
- Estimated Cost to make this recipe: Around $6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Additional time: None
- Calories per serving: 250 calories
- Cook method: Baking
- Season: Perfect for Fall or Winter
- Courses: Breakfast, Snack
- Cuisine: International
- Diets: GlutenFreeDiet, VegetarianDiet
How to Make Crunchy Pecan Granola
Now I’m going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | Quick oats or steel-cut oats |
| Pecans | Walnuts or almonds |
| Honey | Maple syrup or agave syrup |
| Coconut oil | Vegetable oil or butter |
| Cinnamon | Nutmeg or ginger powder |
| Vanilla extract | Almond extract or vanilla bean paste |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread the granola mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Store the granola in an airtight container and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- If you like your granola extra crispy, leave it in the oven for an extra 5-10 minutes, but be careful not to burn it!
- Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins after the granola has cooled for extra sweetness.
- For a nut-free version, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
What to Serve with Crunchy Pecan Granola
This crunchy pecan granola is perfect on its own or paired with your favorite yogurt, milk, or smoothie. You can even sprinkle it on top of a fruit salad for some extra crunch and flavor.
How do you serve the recipe?
Serve this granola in bowls with milk or sprinkle it over some creamy Greek yogurt. It’s also great as a topping for your morning smoothie bowl.
Where do you serve this recipe the most?
I love serving this granola at breakfast, but it’s also perfect for snack time or even as a dessert topping. It’s great for picnics, as it’s easy to pack, doesn’t spoil quickly, and is perfect for munching on the go.
Storage
Short-term storage (room temperature)
Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days. Make sure it’s kept in a cool, dry place.
Refrigeration:
If you want to keep it fresh for a bit longer, store it in the fridge for up to 14 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to avoid moisture.
Freezing:
For long-term storage, you can freeze your granola. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will last up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can use other nuts like almonds or walnuts if you prefer. Each type of nut will give the granola a different taste, but they all work well.
Can I add other ingredients like dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or even apricots after baking the granola. Just wait until it cools down to avoid burning the fruit.
Is this granola good for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s a great meal prep recipe. You can make a big batch and store it for up to a week or more. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks during the week.
Can I make this granola without coconut oil?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with butter or vegetable oil. Just make sure to melt the butter if you choose to use it.
Can kids help make this granola?
Yes, kids can help mix the ingredients and spread the granola on the baking sheet. Just make sure an adult is around to supervise while baking.