Pumpkin Spice Granola

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious way to kickstart your mornings or to add a little crunch to your snacks, then this Pumpkin Spice Granola is just what you need! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to this recipe when the fall vibes start rolling in. It’s packed with warm spices and wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for a taste!

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a topping for yogurt, sprinkle it over fresh fruit, or simply snack on it by the handful. It’s a delightful addition to any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet and spicy flavors; it’s a hit with everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a batch on the weekend and enjoy fresh granola all week long.
• Customizable Add-Ins: Choose your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to personalize your granola.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich blend of spices gives every bite a warm and inviting taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients will be half the fun! They come together beautifully to create the perfect base for your Pumpkin Spice Granola. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups (240g) rolled oats (not quick cook)
• 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground ginger
• 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable/sunflower oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 cup (120g) pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
• 1/2 – 3/4 cup add-ins: pumpkin seeds, cranberries, pecans etc. (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Spice Granola is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your add-ins based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra texture.
• Go Sweet: Include some chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a sweet twist.
• Boost Protein: Mix in some chia seeds or sunflower seeds to up the nutritional value.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or cayenne pepper for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Granola

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 160C/325F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your granola bakes evenly and gets that lovely crisp texture we all adore.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, light brown sugar, ground spices, and vanilla extract. Stir them together until the oats are nice and coated in those fragrant spices. This blend of flavors sets the foundation for that classic pumpkin spice taste!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the vegetable oil, maple syrup, and pumpkin purée. Give everything a good mix until all the oats are thoroughly coated. This step is important because it helps bind everything together while baking.

Step 4: Spread on Baking Tray

Transfer the mixture onto your prepared baking tray. Spread it out evenly but don’t stress about flattening it too much; leaving some clumps will give you those delightful crunchy clusters later on!

Step 5: Bake Away!

Place your tray in the oven and let it bake for about 35-45 minutes. Remember to take it out every 15 minutes to stir so that every oat gets toasted perfectly. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once your granola has darkened and feels crisp to touch, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the tray. This step is key as cooling allows it to firm up into those tasty clusters we all love.

Step 7: Enjoy!

After cooling down, store your Pumpkin Spice Granola in an airtight container at room temperature. It keeps well for about a week—if it lasts that long! Serve with milk or yogurt, or snack on it straight from the jar!

And there you have it—a delightful recipe for Pumpkin Spice Granola that’s sure to become a staple in your home! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Granola

Making your own granola is a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate your Pumpkin Spice Granola to perfection!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices have a more potent flavor, enhancing the aromatic experience of your granola. If possible, grind whole spices just before use for the best results.

• Don’t skip the clumping: For that perfect granola texture, resist the urge to flatten it completely on the baking tray. Allowing some clumps to form helps create those satisfying crunchy clusters.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix and match different add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits based on your preferences. This customization makes the granola uniquely yours!

• Store properly: To keep your granola fresh for longer, make sure it’s stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it crunchy and delicious for up to a week.

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on how sweet you prefer your granola, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup. A little taste test before baking can guide you!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Granola

Pumpkin Spice Granola isn’t just tasty on its own; it’s incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ideas for serving this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon adds an extra warmth and enhances the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Chopped fresh fruit: Adding some sliced bananas or berries brings freshness and balances the sweetness of the granola beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Plant-based yogurt: Creamy plant-based yogurt serves as a great base for your granola, creating a delicious breakfast or snack option.
• Milk alternatives: Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are fantastic pairings that complement the flavors of pumpkin spice while keeping everything dairy-free.
• Smoothies: Pair your granola with a smoothie bowl topped with banana slices and chia seeds for a hearty breakfast.
• Sliced apples with nut butter: Enjoying apple slices dipped in almond or sunflower seed butter alongside your granola creates a delightful crunch and adds protein.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Granola in countless delicious ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Granola is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack throughout the week. It stores well, so you can whip up a batch ahead of time and have it ready whenever you need a tasty treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your granola in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature to maintain its crispiness.
• It will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing

• For longer storage, consider freezing your granola.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container with as much air removed as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• If you prefer your granola warm, simply spread it on a baking tray.
• Heat in a preheated oven at 160C/325F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or let it cool and store again!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Pumpkin Spice Granola recipe.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Granola?

Absolutely! This recipe serves as a great base for adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Feel free to mix in ingredients like almonds, sunflower seeds, or raisins to make it your own!

How long does Pumpkin Spice Granola last?

Pumpkin Spice Granola will keep for one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer shelf life, you can freeze it for up to three months.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Spice Granola?

This granola is versatile! Serve it with milk, yogurt, or sprinkle over oatmeal. You can also enjoy it by the handful as a delicious snack.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to use rolled oats for this recipe since they provide the right texture. Quick oats may become mushy and not achieve that perfect crunchy granola consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Pumpkin Spice Granola as much as I do! It’s not just a delightful blend of flavors; it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy nutritious ingredients without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning yogurt or snacking on it throughout the day, I’m sure you’ll find endless ways to savor this recipe. Happy cooking!