Maple Pecan Granola

Jump To Recipe posted Nov 11, 2024 by Jessica Hoffman

If you love the combination of sweet and salty then this Maple Pecan Granola will be your new favourite granola! It’s made with maple syrup, pecans and sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty combination you won’t be able to stop eating.

maple pecan granola in a bowl with a spoon

Homemade granola with maple and pecans

Granola is a staple in my kitchen. It’s one of those things I make every couple of weeks on my food prep day and keep on hand to eat on top of yogurt parfaits, chia pudding or on its own by the handful straight from the jar!

I used to always buy granola in the grocery store until I discovered just how easy it is to make at home! I’m serious. It’s one of those things that you don’t realize how simple it is to make until you make it. And once you do, you won’t be able to stop!

This sweet and salty maple pecan granola is my all-time favourite granola recipe. I’m a huge fan of the sweet and salty combination, and this granola is no exception. The hint of salt pairs so well with the maple syrup in this recipe and gives it that sweet and salty sort of taste. If you don’t like the sweet and salty combo then you can just leave the salt out altogether.

Why you’ll love this granola

Better than store-bought. That’s right, once you go homemade, you’ll never go back! Not only is homemade granola healthier than store-bought, but I promise you it tastes wayyy better.
Best flavour….ever. Have you ever taken a bite of something and couldn’t stop eating it because it tastes so darn good? Well, that’s exactly the experience you’ll have with this granola recipe.
Great for meal prep. Granola is great to meal prep and stays for weeks in the pantry.

Maple Pecan Granola Ingredients and Substitutions

Oats: Oats give this granola its satisfying crunch and chewiness. I recommend using rolled oats for this recipe!
Rice crisps: Light and airy rice crisps add some crunch! You can also use puffed quinoa.
Pecans: Packed with healthy fats, pecans offer a rich, buttery flavor that complements the maple sweetness.
Chia seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients and help give the granola an extra crunch.
Cinnamon: Warming and aromatic, cinnamon enhances the cozy fall flavors in this granola.
Sea salt: Just a pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness.
Coconut oil: Melted coconut oil helps the granola crisp up perfectly. You can substitute with any type of neutral-tasting oil or butter.
Maple syrup: Naturally sweet and unrefined, maple syrup binds the ingredients and infuses sweetness. You can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings a delicate sweetness that rounds out each bite of granola.

*This is just an ingredient and recipe overview. The full recipe with measurements and instructions can be found below in the recipe card.

How to make Maple Pecan Granola

Step 1

Add the oats, puffed quinoa or rice crisps, chia seeds, cinnamon and sea salt to a large mixing bowl and mix together to combine.

oats, pecans, puffed quinoa and chia seeds in a mixing bowl

oats, puffed quinoa and pecans mixed together in a mixing bowl

Step 2

In a separate bowl, mix together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Then pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix together until everything is evenly coated.

coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract in a clear mixing bowl

maple pecan granola mixed in a clear mixing bowl

Step 3

Spread the granola onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the oven at 300 degrees F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

unbaked maple pecan granola on a baking sheet

maple pecan granola toasted on a baking sheet

What To Serve with Granola

There are so many different ways you can eat or serve granola. One of the best ways is to just grab a handful directly from the jar while you stand in your kitchen ;), but here are some other ways you can serve it.

In a bowl with your favourite type of milk
Sprinkled on yogurt
Sprinkled on chia pudding
Sprinkled on oatmeal
On top of toast with nut butter
On top of pancakes (I love it with these fluffy Protein Pancakes) or waffles

How To Store Pecan Granola

To keep your maple pecan granola fresh and crunchy, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. A glass jar or a sealed plastic container works well to lock in the flavors and maintain its crispiness.

Store at room temperature, for up to three weeks.

Expert Tips For Making Granola

Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: For the best texture, choose old-fashioned rolled oats over quick oats; they’ll hold up during baking and provide the ideal chewy crunch.
Press Down for Clusters: If you love chunky granola, press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too often; this helps create those irresistible clusters.
Check the granola halfway through cooking: Different ovens can cook slightly differently, so check on your granola bout 15 minutes into the cooking process. If you notice the edges are starting to brown too much, mix the granola up and then place it back in the oven.
Let it Cool Completely: Once it’s out of the oven, let your granola cool on the baking sheet without disturbing it—this will help it harden and give you those delicious, crunchy bites

A bowl of maple pecan granola with almond milk

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my granola into clusters?

For chunkier granola, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet and resist stirring too much. Adding a bit more maple syrup or an extra tablespoon of coconut oil can also help create clusters.

Can I use quick oats?

Yes, however, this will change the texture of the granola. Rolled oats are best for a crispy texture and nutty taste!

How long does homemade granola last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it will stay fresh for about three weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a month or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I add dried fruit or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Add dried fruit or chocolate chips AFTER baking and cooling to prevent them from melting or drying out in the oven. These make great additions for extra flavor and texture!

More granola recipes to try

If you tried this Maple Pecan Granola or any other recipe on the blog let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment/rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more deliciousness!

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