Irresistible Apple Pecan Granola Recipe for Cozy Mornings

Apple pecan granola is a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked granola wafting through your kitchen, enticing you to indulge in a bowl of crunchy goodness.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy mornings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would whip up batches of granola together while sharing stories and laughter. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this apple pecan granola is bound to become a staple in your home and will leave you craving more!

Ingredients for apple pecan granola

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats provide the perfect base for granola, giving it that classic chewy texture.
• Pecans: Crunchy and rich in flavor, pecans add a nutty twist that complements the sweetness of apples.
• Dried Apples: Opt for unsweetened dried apples to maintain the natural sweetness without overpowering the dish.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Use either sweetener to bind the ingredients together while adding a hint of sweetness.
• Cinnamon: This warm spice brings out the flavors of apple and adds an aromatic touch to your granola.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without making it salty.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make apple pecan granola

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures that your granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, dried apples, cinnamon, and salt. Give it all a good stir until everything is evenly distributed—like old friends reunited at a party!

Step 3: Add Sweetness

In another small bowl, mix honey or maple syrup with just enough water to loosen it up. Pour this sweet mixture over your oat mixture and stir until every oat and nut is coated. You want them all feeling loved!

Step 4: Bake It All Together

Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning. Stay close—the smell will be heavenly!

Step 5: Cool Down

Once it’s golden brown and no longer feels like sticky dough, take it out from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial; if you skip it, you might end up with clumpy granola instead of delightful clusters.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Granola

Once cooled, break apart any large clusters (if you’re feeling generous) and store your apple pecan granola in an airtight container for those moments when you need a quick snack or breakfast fix! Try serving it with yogurt or sprinkling it over ice cream for dessert—because why not?

Now that you’ve mastered this apple pecan granola recipe, I bet you’ll be whipping it up for breakfast gatherings or just because those munchies are hitting hard at three PM! Enjoy every crunchy bite as you reminisce about those warm mornings filled with laughter in Grandma’s kitchen. Happy munching!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix oats, nuts, and spices. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet, bake for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning. Finally, add dried fruits after cooling for a delightful crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warmth. For an extra sweet touch, drizzle some maple syrup before baking!

Storing & Reheating

Store your apple pecan granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want it warm again, simply pop it in the oven at low heat for a few minutes to restore its crunch.

I remember the first time I served this apple pecan granola to friends; they devoured it and insisted I should sell it! Their enthusiasm made me realize how simple ingredients could bring so much joy.

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in apple pecan granola?

Apple pecan granola features oats, chopped pecans, dried apples, honey or maple syrup, and spices. These ingredients combine to create a delicious blend of flavors and textures. You can also add other nuts or seeds for additional nutrition and crunch. The oats serve as the base, while the pecans provide a rich, buttery taste. Dried apples offer natural sweetness and chewiness that enhances the overall experience. Additionally, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile. This combination makes it a perfect breakfast option or snack.

How can I store homemade apple pecan granola?

To maintain the freshness of your apple pecan granola, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage will keep it crunchy and flavorful for up to two weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider refrigerating it; this can last for up to a month. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight, as these factors can lead to spoilage. For longer storage, you can freeze your granola in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw before serving.

Can I customize my apple pecan granola recipe?

Absolutely! Customizing your apple pecan granola is simple and fun. Feel free to swap out the pecans for other nuts like almonds or walnuts if you prefer different flavors and textures. You can also add seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. Incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can enhance sweetness and variety. Adjusting the spices allows you to personalize each batch according to your taste preferences, ensuring your granola remains unique every time you make it.

Is apple pecan granola gluten-free?

Yes, apple pecan granola can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats as your base ingredient. Many brands provide oats that are processed in facilities free from gluten contamination. When purchasing other ingredients like sweeteners or added mix-ins, always check their labels for gluten content. Making your own homemade version gives you complete control over all components, ensuring that they are gluten-free if needed. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities while still enjoying a delicious snack.

Conclusion for apple pecan granola:

In summary, apple pecan granola is a delightful combination of wholesome oats, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried apples that makes for a nourishing breakfast or snack option. Its versatility allows for easy customization with various nuts and spices to suit individual tastes. Proper storage ensures that this tasty treat stays fresh for weeks. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or topping yogurt with it, this recipe is sure to please everyone in the family while providing essential nutrients and energy throughout the day.

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Apple Pecan Granola

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast/Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

A wholesome blend of crunchy oats, rich pecans, and sweet dried apples that creates a delightful breakfast or snack, perfect for energizing your day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup unsweetened dried apples
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, dried apples, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Add Sweetener: In a small bowl, mix honey or maple syrup with a splash of water to loosen it. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all are coated.
4. Bake: Spread the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
5. Cool Down: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve crunchy clusters.
6. Serve and Store: Once cooled, break apart large clusters if desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 60g
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm twist. For extra sweetness, drizzle more maple syrup before baking.