If you are craving a cozy, flavorful breakfast or snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe is exactly what you need. Sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup and bursting with the quintessential spices of pumpkin pie, this granola combines old-fashioned oats, crunchy seeds, and a touch of dried fruit to deliver a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Whether eaten by the handful or sprinkled over yogurt, this homemade granola brings a delightful crunch and a cozy seasonal vibe to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe is simple, but every component plays an essential role in building its irresistible flavor and texture. From hearty oats providing the perfect base to the pumpkin pie spice adding seasonal warmth, each ingredient comes together beautifully.
- Old-fashioned oats (3 ½ cups): The foundation of your granola, offering that ideal chewy crunch and bulk.
- Raw pumpkin or sunflower seeds (1 cup): Added for an extra nutty bite and healthy fats.
- Pumpkin pie spice (½ teaspoon): A cozy blend that fills your kitchen with autumnal warmth.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Maple syrup (⅓ cup): The natural sweetener that gives this granola its signature flavor.
- Olive oil (⅓ cup): Helps everything crisp up beautifully while adding a subtle richness.
- Dried raisins or cranberries (½ cup): For a burst of chewy, fruity sweetness in every bite.
How to Make Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with either a silicone mat or parchment paper. This sets the stage for even baking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the oats, seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Pour in the maple syrup and olive oil, then toss everything together until every oat and seed is fully coated with the sweet-spiced mixture. This ensures a deep, consistent flavor throughout your granola.
Step 3: Bake the Granola
Spread your mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet, making sure it’s in a single layer to bake uniformly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until you notice a lovely golden-brown color starting to develop and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 4: Cool Before Adding Fruit
Once baked, allow the granola to cool completely—about one hour on the baking sheet. This step is crucial as the granola hardens and achieves that perfect crisp texture. After cooling, stir in your dried raisins or cranberries for a burst of chewy sweetness.
How to Serve Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe
Garnishes
This Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe shines on its own, but feel free to sprinkle a handful over creamy yogurt, a bowl of fresh berries, or even a smooth smoothie bowl. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a handful of toasted nuts can elevate the experience even more.
Side Dishes
Pair this granola with seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pears for a light, refreshing contrast. It also works wonderfully alongside warm oatmeal or cereal for a crunch upgrade that’ll keep you satisfied well into the day.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get creative and layer the granola with Greek yogurt and pumpkin puree for a visually stunning parfait? Or pack it into mason jars with chia pudding for an on-the-go breakfast that’s both nutritious and deliciously festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe will keep wonderfully fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed prevents it from getting stale and helps maintain that perfect crunch.
Freezing
If you’ve made a big batch and want to extend its life, granola freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months, then thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked freshness, spread the granola on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes. This quickly restores its crunch without over-toasting the delicate nuts and seeds.
FAQs
Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely! Honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes, but maple syrup is preferred as it complements the pumpkin spice flavor beautifully and adds a unique depth to the recipe.
Is it possible to make this granola vegan?
This granola is naturally vegan since it uses maple syrup and olive oil rather than honey or butter, making it perfect for plant-based diets.
Can I customize the nuts and seeds?
Yes, feel free to swap out pumpkin or sunflower seeds with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans according to your preference and what you have on hand.
How crunchy will the granola be?
If you follow the baking and cooling instructions carefully, your Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe will turn out wonderfully crunchy and satisfying, with just the right bite.
Can I add fresh pumpkin to this granola?
Fresh pumpkin contains too much moisture and will affect the texture. It’s best to stick to pumpkin pie spice for that warm pumpkin flavor without compromising the crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the warmth and comfort packed into every bite of this Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe. It’s an inviting way to celebrate the cozy seasons or simply brighten your mornings with a homemade treat that’s both tasty and nutritious. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures—it might just become your new favorite granola for the year ahead!
Print
Maple Pumpkin Granola Recipe
This Maple Pumpkin Granola is a crunchy, sweet, and spiced snack or breakfast option, featuring old-fashioned oats, raw seeds, and dried fruit all enhanced with cozy pumpkin pie spice and natural maple syrup. Perfect for a seasonal treat that is both delicious and nutritious.
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups granola
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup raw pumpkin or sunflower seeds
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Add-ins
- ½ cup dried raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the oats, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, pumpkin pie spice, salt, maple syrup, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until the oats and seeds are evenly coated with the wet ingredients and spices.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the granola mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once or twice if desired, until the granola is lightly browned and fragrant.
- Cool and Add Fruit: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 1 hour. During this time, it will harden and become crunchy. After cooling, mix in the dried raisins or cranberries.
- Store and Serve: Once completely cooled and mixed, store the granola in an airtight container. Enjoy as a seasonal snack, breakfast topping, or with yogurt or milk.
Notes
- For the crunchiest granola, avoid under-baking or baking at too high a temperature to prevent burning.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even baking of the granola.
- For larger clusters, press the granola mixture firmly down on the baking sheet before baking.
- Allow the granola to cool completely to achieve its crunchy texture as it hardens while cooling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
