Fall is in the air, and what better way to embrace the season than with a delicious batch of Pumpkin Spice Cranberry Granola? This wholesome treat combines the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with the tart sweetness of cranberries, making it the perfect addition to your morning routine or a delightful snack any time of day. Easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients, this granola will have your kitchen smelling like a pumpkin patch and your taste buds dancing with joy. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a crunchy, flavorful granola that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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 the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), pumpkin spice, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the oats are completely coated.
- Spread the mixture in an even, thin layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the granola is spread out to allow for even toasting and crispy texture.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to promote uniform browning and prevent burning.
- Remove the granola from the oven when it turns golden brown and becomes crisp. The mixture will continue to crisp up as it cools.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet for approximately 15-20 minutes, which helps it develop a crunchy texture.
- Once cooled, gently fold in the dried cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the granola.
- Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, maintaining its crispness and flavor.
Tips
- Choose Your Sweetener Wisely: While honey adds a lovely floral note, maple syrup provides a rich, caramel-like flavor. Feel free to experiment with both to find your perfect sweetness!
- Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Mix It Up: For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating nuts or seeds, such as pecans or pumpkin seeds. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add larger ingredients.
- Keep an Eye on It: Granola can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of minutes. Stir it every 10 minutes while baking to ensure even browning and prevent any unwanted charring.
- Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before adding the dried cranberries. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crunch.
- Storage Matters: To keep your granola fresh and crispy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay delicious for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
