Ingredients:
Dry:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or neutral oil like avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins (after baking):
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruit)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut (if using), chia or flaxseed (if using), pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Everything: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy, stirring halfway through.
- Cool and Add Mix-Ins: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This is important for achieving those delightful clusters. Once cool, stir in the chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
- Store: Store the pumpkin spice chocolate granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer storage.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger, nutmeg, or cloves for extra warmth.
- Texture: For larger clusters, bake the granola undisturbed and then gently break it apart after it’s cooled.
- Get creative with add-ins: Try other dried fruits, different types of chocolate, or a sprinkle of chopped crystallized ginger.
- Gluten-free: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
Enjoy your homemade granola in various ways:
- With yogurt and fresh fruit for a parfait
- As a crunchy topping for smoothies
- Straight from the container as a satisfying snack!
