Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked granola, where sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and golden oats dance together in perfect harmony. This isn't just another breakfast recipe—it's a morning game-changer that will revolutionize your breakfast routine! Our Homemade Apple Pecan Granola is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that promises to elevate your breakfast from mundane to magnificent, offering a nutritious and delicious start to your day.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- Dice fresh apples into small, uniform cubes, approximately 1/4 inch in size. If you want to prevent browning, you can toss the apple pieces with a little lemon juice.
- Pour honey or maple syrup over the dry ingredients, stirring carefully to ensure all oats and pecans are well-coated. The liquid sweetener will help create crispy clusters.
- Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are distributed throughout the mixture without breaking them down too much.
- Spread the granola mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to create a thin, uniform layer that will allow for even toasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning and ensure uniform golden-brown color.
- Remove from oven when the granola is golden brown and crisp. The pecans should look toasted and the oats should have a crunchy texture.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to crisp up as it cools, which is crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Once cooled, mix in dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, ensuring it remains crisp and fresh.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor profile. Freshly chopped pecans and crisp apples make a significant difference.
- Stir the granola regularly during baking to prevent burning and ensure even golden-brown coloration.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet—this is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- For extra flavor complexity, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the mixture.
- If you prefer a lower-sugar version, you can reduce the honey and add a touch of unsweetened applesauce for moisture.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like chopped dates or blueberries for variety.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
