Maple Granola Recipe

If you are looking for a cozy, crunchy, and naturally sweet treat to brighten your mornings or snack times, this Maple Granola recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the warm flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans with the rich depth of real maple syrup, creating crispy clusters that are endlessly satisfying. Whether spooned over yogurt, mixed with milk, or munched straight from the jar, this homemade granola brings a comforting touch of sweetness and texture that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients that are easy to find but essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavor, crunch, and color. Each component plays a special role — from the hearty oats that form the base to the toasted nuts that add richness and texture, and of course the maple syrup that gives this granola its signature sweetness and aroma.

• 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation of your granola, providing that irresistible chew and wholesome texture.
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped: Adds a buttery crunch and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with maple.
• ½ cup sliced almonds: Brings a delicate nuttiness and enhances the crunch factor.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: A pinch to balance sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms up the profile with a cozy, aromatic spice.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses richness that deepens the flavor.
• ½ cup melted coconut oil or canola oil: Helps create crisp clusters and keeps the granola moist but crunchy.
• ½ cup maple syrup: The star sweetener that infuses the granola with its classic, rich maple taste.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 2 teaspoons maple extract: Boosts the maple notes for an extra punch of that beloved flavor.

How to Make Maple Granola

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 300°F and lining a half sheet pan with parchment paper. This low and slow baking ensures the granola browns nicely without burning, and the parchment makes clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together your oats, chopped pecans, sliced almonds, kosher salt, and cinnamon. This mix brings together texture, warmth, and a hint of savory balance even before you add any sweeteners.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a spouted measuring cup or small bowl, stir the brown sugar, melted coconut or canola oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract until well combined. This glossy, fragrant mixture will be the magic glue that coats every flake and nut.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Pour the wet ingredients over the oat and nut mixture, then stir well until every bit is lightly coated. This ensures your granola bakes up golden, sticky, and full of flavor.

Step 5: Bake and Stir

Spread the oat mixture evenly on the prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring and rotating the pan halfway through. This helps the granola brown evenly and develop those irresistibly crisp clusters.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Once out of the oven, let the granola cool completely on the pan without disturbance — this step is key for cluster formation. If you like, this is the perfect time to fold in extras like chocolate chips or flaked coconut for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Maple Granola

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of extra chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon on top when serving to elevate the presentation and add a bit more crunch and warmth. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries brighten up the plate and balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This Maple Granola pairs wonderfully with creamy Greek yogurt or chilled milk, turning a simple snack into a satisfying mini-meal. It also complements a bowl of warm oatmeal or can be served alongside smoothie bowls for a textured topping.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your maple granola with yogurt and fruit in a glass jar for a beautiful parfait. Or use it as a crunchy crust on baked desserts, like pies or crisps, for added flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Maple Granola keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed protects those crisp clusters from humidity and helps maintain freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze granola in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before packing it away, so it stays as crunchy as the day you baked it.

Reheating

If you enjoy your maple granola warm, you can toast it lightly in a dry skillet or in the oven for just a few minutes. This will refresh the crunch and bring back that freshly baked aroma.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts, cashews, or even hazelnuts make great alternatives. Just be mindful of their roasting times and adjust if needed to avoid burning.

Is it necessary to use both maple syrup and maple extract?

While maple syrup provides natural sweetness and moisture, the maple extract boosts the flavor intensity, giving this granola its signature maple punch. You can omit the extract, but the flavor will be a bit milder.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep the granola safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How do I get big clusters in my granola?

The key is to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly and avoid over-stirring the granola after baking. Let it cool completely on the pan without breaking it up, and you’ll get those satisfying big clusters every time.

Can I add dried fruit to this Maple Granola?

Definitely! Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots after the granola has cooled to prevent them from getting soggy or burnt during baking.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Granola is truly one of those comforting yet versatile recipes that brings everyday joy to your breakfast table or snack time. Its warm, sweet, nutty flavors and crispy texture make it easy to love and even easier to share. I encourage you to give this recipe a whirl — it’s simple, satisfying, and bound to become a staple in your kitchen before you know it!