Easy Maple Granola Recipe

This easy maple granola recipe is a simple way to make a crunchy, sweet breakfast at home. Made with rolled oats, real maple syrup, and pantry staples, it bakes up golden and full of cozy flavor. You can mix in nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to make it just how you like it. It stores well, so you can make a batch ahead for busy mornings. Spoon it over yogurt, pour it with milk, or grab a handful as a quick snack.

The natural sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with warm spices. I loving using this recipe for a cold lunch option or for when you need a snack. This is my favorite maple granola recipe to make because it’s so simple. The maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the oats and nuts.

Maple Granola Recipe

This maple granola recipe makes about 10 cups of granola, depending on how much it shrinks during baking.

Maple Granola Ingredients

• 4 cups old fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup roughly chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2/3 cup dried fruit of your choice (cranberries, raisins, dried apricots)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup olive oil or coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp real vanilla extract
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Maple Granola Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, sliced almonds, dried fruit and pumpkin seeds. Give them a good stir so that they are well blended.
3. Pour on the olive oil, maple syrup, vanilla, sea salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Mix everything together so that all of the ingredients are coated.
4. Put the granola mixture onto a large baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper. Spread evenly. Press the granola down a bit so that it sticks together. This will give you large clumps of granola once it is cooled.
5. Bake for about 20 minutes and check on it. It should be lightly golden. If it is not golden yet, put it in for a bit longer, checking on it every minute so that it does not overbake.
6. Let the granola cool completely then break it up with your hands. You can make little pieces or large chunks.

Tips For Getting Chunky Granola

Here are some tips for making granola extra chunky and full of clusters. If you love big, crispy chunks in your granola, these tricks can help you get that perfect texture.

Use More Maple Syrup

Add extra maple syrup or honey to help the ingredients stick together. The added moisture encourages clumping. Here’s a list of the best maple syrup brands to try out.

Press the Granola Firmly

After spreading the granola on the baking sheet, press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create a packed layer.

Don’t Stir The Granola

Leaving it undisturbed while baking helps large clusters form.

Roughly Chop The Nuts

Don’t chop the nuts too small. These bulkier ingredients naturally clump together as they bake, creating those chunky pieces.

Let It Cool Completely

Once the granola is baked, let it cool completely on the baking sheet without touching it. This lets the clusters to harden and stay intact.

Maple Granola FAQ

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but rolled oats are better for granola because they hold their shape and provide more crunch. Quick oats may make the granola softer.

How do I make granola clump together?

To get clumps, press the granola down firmly on the baking sheet and avoid stirring it while it bakes. Adding a bit more liquid like maple syrup or oil can also help it stick.

Can I make granola without oil?

Yes, you can substitute applesauce or nut butter for oil to keep it moist and flavorful. Just note that it may not be as crispy.

How long does homemade granola last?

Homemade granola can last up to 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.

Can I freeze granola?

Yes, granola freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before eating. This is one of the reasons why I love this recipe so much, when I’m on the go I can just grab it for a quick snack.

More Topping And Inclusions

Here are some topping and ingredient ideas that you might have on hand in the pantry. These options let you customize your granola just the way you like it.

• Add raisins, cranberries, chopped dates, apricots, or dried mango for a sweet and chewy texture. We have a list of dried fruit ideas.
• Mix in dark, milk, or white chocolate chips after the granola cools for a hint of sweetness. I have a really fun DIY chocolate chips recipe to try out when you want to make your own.
• Top your granola with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples for a burst of freshness when you want to eat it with milk for breakfast.
• Drizzle almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter over the granola for extra flavor and creaminess.
• Sprinkle chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts for added crunch and a boost of nutrition.
• Serve granola with Greek yogurt or your favorite type of milk to make it a complete meal or snack.
• Add unsweetened or toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch and added crunch.
• Dust with pumpkin spice for a warm and aromatic flavor. Also, see my easy baked pumpkin oatmeal.
• Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, almonds, or pistachios to complement the oats and add crunch. Here is a list of nuts to try.
• Top your granola with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

More Breakfast Recipes

• Easy cocoa overnight oats
• Concord grapes overnight oats
• Healthy overnight oats recipe
• How to freeze dry food