Crunchy, packed with heart-healthy ingredients like whole grains, nuts, and seeds…this is my new go to for breakfast and snacks. And it is SO easy to make. Once you try this you will never go back to store-bought granola!
Some of my favorite ways to enjoy this flavorful fall delight:
Sprinkled on top of apple slices topped with yogurt
Swirled into a steaming bowl of oatmeal
Healthy dessert to satisfy an evening sweet tooth…fill a small bowl with granola, heat up some oat milk and pour on top. Yum!
Perfect homemade gift for friends, neighbors, teachers…etc.
1/2 teaspoon finely ground sea salt (if using table salt reduce to 1/4 teaspoon)
1/3cup organic coconut oil, melted
1/3cup maple syrup
1/2cup organic canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350. Line a large (I use 9 x 12) rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Note: It is very important to use a baking pan with sides; otherwise, the granola could easily slide off the pan and make a real mess in your oven. Plus, this granola is so good you won’t want to waste a single bite! If you don’t have a large, rimmed baking sheet you can divide the granola into batches and use metal pans with sides or any casserole dishes that you have on hand.
In a large mixing bowl combine the oats, almonds, pepitas, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
In a medium mixing bowl whisk together coconut oil, maple syrup, pumpkin, and vanilla until thoroughly blended.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients stir well, completely coating the oats, nuts, and seeds.
Spread granola evenly onto parchment lined baking sheet, making sure to spread the mixture to all corners of the pan.
Ready for the oven!
Bake for 50 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Let cool thoroughly for at least 40 minutes before serving. The aroma while the granola is baking is so tempting. If you can’t wait, be careful not to burn your tongue when you take a nibble…I’m speaking from experience!
Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Finished Pumpkin Pie Granola
Notes
Variations
Make this gluten free by substituting certified gluten-free oats. They are relatively easy to find at major grocers.
Use agave or brown rice syrup instead of maple syrup.
Add 2/3 cup dried fruit (cranberries, sour cherries, or apples are all good choices) as soon as you remove the baked granola from the oven. Let mixture cool as directed above. Note:Look for fruit sweetened or unsweetened dried fruit. Some brands are loaded with sugar so read the labels. I always choose organic when available. If using dried apple, dice before adding. I use the cranberries and cherries as packaged; they add a nice balance to the larger pieces of almond.
Stir in ¾ cup unsweetened, shredded coconut halfway through the baking time. It will toast perfectly, yielding another yummy layer of crunchiness.
Substitute antioxidant packed walnuts or your favorite nut for almonds.
2 comments
This was a super easy recipe to put together and make. The granola is scrumptious! Even my “non-healthy eating” husband liked it. My only caution is to watch your oven speed. I went the full 50 minutes, and it was too much – some end pieces were burnt. But they won’t go to waste as our dog enjoyed those!
Lori = thanks for creating such a great website!
Hi Diane Thank you! So glad you and your husband enjoyed this recipe. Fall is the perfect season to keep a batch of this yummy granola on hand. Here’s another idea…top a pumpkin pie with whipped coconut cream and then sprinkle generously with this crunchy treat. Happy holidays!
Hi! I love to cook and teaching others to cook is even more fun! Join me in the kitchen where I share my favorite plant-based recipes and cooking tips to help make your creations a success!
This was a super easy recipe to put together and make. The granola is scrumptious! Even my “non-healthy eating” husband liked it. My only caution is to watch your oven speed. I went the full 50 minutes, and it was too much – some end pieces were burnt. But they won’t go to waste as our dog enjoyed those!
Lori = thanks for creating such a great website!
★★★★★
Hi Diane Thank you! So glad you and your husband enjoyed this recipe. Fall is the perfect season to keep a batch of this yummy granola on hand. Here’s another idea…top a pumpkin pie with whipped coconut cream and then sprinkle generously with this crunchy treat. Happy holidays!