Homemade granola is a game-changer for breakfast lovers. This cinnamon pecan granola is packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of oats, brown sugar, honey, and a generous amount of cinnamon. It’s crunchy, sweet, and can be enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or even on its own. Plus, it’s a breeze to make and much healthier than store-bought versions. Let’s get started!
Crunchy Cinnamon Pecan Granola Recipe
30
servings10
minutes30
minutes102
kcal40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Granola:
500 g 6 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
100 g 1/2 cup sugar
120 g 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as pecans)
1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Syrup:
120 ml 1/2 cup neutral-flavored oil or melted coconut oil
120 ml 1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
Mixing bowl- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Spoon
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, packed brown sugar, chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to distribute the cinnamon and brown sugar evenly throughout the oats and nuts.
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the oil (or melted coconut oil), honey, and vanilla extract. Heat gently until the mixture is fully combined and slightly warm. This makes it easier to mix with the dry ingredients.
- Pour the warm syrup mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until all the oats and nuts are evenly coated. Make sure there are no dry spots; everything should be slightly sticky and clump together.
- Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Press down gently with a spatula to encourage clumping, which will result in those coveted granola clusters.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on the granola during the last few minutes to prevent it from burning. The granola is ready when it turns golden brown and becomes fragrant.
- Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. The granola will continue to crisp up as it cools. Resist the urge to stir it while it’s cooling if you want larger clusters.
- After the granola has fully cooled, break it into clusters as desired. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- If you prefer your granola less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey slightly.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. Quick oats are thinner and can result in a less crunchy texture. If you only have quick oats, reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the granola to prevent it from burning.
Can I substitute the nuts with something else?
Yes, you can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you have a nut allergy or prefer a different texture. You can also omit the nuts entirely if desired.
How do I make the granola gluten-free?
To make this granola gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free oats. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the vanilla extract, are also gluten-free.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey if you prefer a less sweet granola. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia, but this may slightly alter the texture.
How do I store homemade granola, and how long will it last?
Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the granola in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Can I add dried fruits or chocolate chips to the granola?
Yes, dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots are great additions. However, add them after the granola has cooled to prevent them from becoming hard or burnt. You can also add chocolate chips after cooling for a sweeter treat.
My granola didn’t clump together—what went wrong?
To get those desirable clusters, make sure to press the granola down firmly on the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring it while it cools. Adding a bit more honey can also help create clusters.
What if my granola is too crunchy or too soft?
If your granola is too crunchy, it may have been baked too long or at too high a temperature. If it’s too soft, it might need a bit more time in the oven. To fix this, you can return the granola to the oven and bake it at 300°F (150°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
