Pumpkin Granola

There’s something magical about the combination of crisp autumn mornings and a warm bowl of Pumpkin Granola. As the leaves turn and the air gets a little cooler, I find myself craving that cozy flavor of fall—spices dancing through the air and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This Pumpkin Granola has become a staple in my kitchen, not just for breakfast, but as a delightful snack throughout the day. I remember the first time I made it; the scent wafting from the oven brought back memories of my grandmother baking in her cozy kitchen during the holidays. It’s more than just granola; it’s a reminder of family gatherings and shared moments.

Every bite is filled with crunchy oats, sweet honey, and those warm spices that remind me that the best things in life come from the heart. It’s so versatile too! Whether you sprinkle it over yogurt, add it to a smoothie bowl, or just munch on it straight from the jar, it’s bound to make your day a little brighter. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that’s not only delicious but also healthy? With wholesome ingredients like oats and nuts, this Pumpkin Granola is packed with nutrients while satisfying those cravings for something sweet and crunchy.

So, let’s get baking and fill our homes with the aroma of this scrumptious Pumpkin Granola. It’s perfect for those busy mornings or as a tasty treat to enjoy any time of the day.

What to Gather for Pumpkin Granola

Gathering the ingredients for Pumpkin Granola is a breeze, and it reflects the essence of the season. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players here are the oats, which provide a hearty base, and the pumpkin spice, which brings the warmth and comfort of fall into every bite. Let’s dive into what you’ll need.

• 6 cups regular oats: The heart of your granola, offering a chewy texture and a wholesome base.
• 6 oz pepitas: These pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 2 containers mixed nuts (24 oz each): A mix of your favorite nuts enhances both flavor and nutrition.
• 1 1/2 cups roasted sunflower seeds: These seeds provide healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice: The essential spice blend that gives the granola its warm, comforting flavor.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Helps bind the granola together and adds richness.
• 1 cup honey: Nature’s sweetener that elevates the taste and helps the granola clump.
• 6 oz dried cranberries: Added after baking for a sweet, chewy contrast.

Pumpkin Granola Instructions

Making Pumpkin Granola is a simple yet rewarding process. I love how each step builds anticipation for that warm, crunchy goodness. Let’s get started on this delightful journey.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This initial step is crucial as it ensures your granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown hue.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, pepitas, mixed nuts, roasted sunflower seeds, and pumpkin spice. You want to create a wholesome mixture where all the dry ingredients are well combined. The aroma at this stage is already inviting!

3. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and honey. This mixture will help bind your granola together and add a beautiful sweetness.

4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture. Take your time here; you want to ensure every oat and seed is coated. Stir well to combine—this is where the magic begins!

5. Spread out the mixture on two half sheet pans. I recommend lining each with parchment paper or silpat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. The more space you give it, the crunchier it will become!

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remember to stir every ten minutes. This ensures even baking and prevents burning while allowing the granola to develop that lovely golden color.

7. Remove from the oven when it’s lightly toasted. Let it cool completely on the pans. As it cools, it will harden and clump beautifully.

8. Once cooled, break up the granola and stir in the dried cranberries. This adds a sweet chewiness to the mix that you will absolutely love.

9. Store your granola in an airtight container. It will last for up to a month if you can resist eating it all at once!

Customization Ideas

One of the great joys of making Pumpkin Granola at home is the flexibility to customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours!

• Mix in your favorite nuts: Consider adding almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Sweeten to taste: If you prefer a sweeter granola, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or try adding maple syrup in place of honey.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors.
• Add seeds: Incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds for a nutritional boost!
• Experiment with dried fruits: Try raisins, chopped dates, or even apricots for different flavor profiles.
• Make it clumpier: To achieve a clumpier texture, press the granola down firmly before baking.
• Consider flavors: Add a splash of coconut extract for a tropical twist.

What Goes Well With This Pumpkin Granola

Serving your homemade Pumpkin Granola can be as creative as you want. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy it:

• With yogurt: Layer it over a bowl of Greek yogurt for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
• On smoothie bowls: Use it as a topping for smoothie bowls to add texture and flavor.
• As a snack: Munch on it straight from the jar for a healthy on-the-go snack.
• Over desserts: Sprinkle it on ice cream or desserts for an added crunch.
• For meal prep: Pack it in small containers to take to work or school for an easy snack.
• Pair with fresh fruit: Serve it alongside sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Seasonal gatherings: Bring it along to holiday gatherings or brunches as a delightful addition!

FAQ

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Granola recipe is truly special because it captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its crunchy texture and delightful sweetness, it’s perfect for breakfast or a satisfying snack. I encourage you to try making this granola yourself; it’s simple, wholesome, and incredibly delicious. Plus, once you experience the warm scents wafting through your kitchen, you’ll be hooked!

Pumpkin Granola

This Pumpkin Granola is the ultimate comfort food for fall! Crunchy oats, warm spices, and sweet honey come together to create a deliciously satisfying treat. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 24 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups regular oats
• 6 oz pepitas
• 2 containers mixed nuts
• 1.5 cups roasted sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup honey
• 6 oz dried cranberries

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This initial step is crucial as it ensures your granola bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown hue.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, pepitas, mixed nuts, roasted sunflower seeds, and pumpkin spice. You want to create a wholesome mixture where all the dry ingredients are well combined. The aroma at this stage is already inviting!
3. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and honey. This mixture will help bind your granola together and add a beautiful sweetness.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture. Take your time here; you want to ensure every oat and seed is coated. Stir well to combine—this is where the magic begins!
5. Spread out the mixture on two half sheet pans. I recommend lining each with parchment paper or silpat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. The more space you give it, the crunchier it will become!
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remember to stir every ten minutes. This ensures even baking and prevents burning while allowing the granola to develop that lovely golden color.
7. Remove from the oven when it’s lightly toasted. Let it cool completely on the pans. As it cools, it will harden and clump beautifully.
8. Once cooled, break up the granola and stir in the dried cranberries. This adds a sweet chewiness to the mix that you will absolutely love.
9. Store your granola in an airtight container. It will last for up to a month if you can resist eating it all at once!

Notes

After granola is completely cooled, place in an airtight container or resealable bag. It will last for up to a month. Keep your oil and sweetener at a 50/50 ratio for the perfect topping in your granola. We used a honey and oil combination in this recipe. To get a nice clumpy granola, press the granola into an even layer before you place it in the oven. Stir it only once during the baking process and press it down after you pull it out of the oven before it cools. It’s tricky to tell when granola is done. Remember your granola won’t be dry right out of the oven. As it cools, it will dry, so it’s hard to tell when it’s done. When your granola is lightly toasted and smells like cooked honey, it’s ready to take out of the oven. Remember to add any dried fruit after you are done baking. If you add it before baking, it will burn.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!