When fall arrives, pumpkin spice flavors appear everywhere—from lattes to desserts—but one of the most versatile ways to enjoy the season is through homemade pumpkin spice granola. Crunchy, fragrant, and packed with wholesome ingredients, pumpkin spice granola is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or topping desserts like yogurt and ice cream.
Why Pumpkin Spice Granola Is a Must-Have
- Seasonal Flavor: Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger capture the essence of autumn.
- Healthy & Filling: Packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and a touch of natural sweeteners.
- Versatile: Eat as cereal, sprinkle on yogurt, or enjoy as a trail mix.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spices, and add-ins to your preference.
Homemade granola is also more wholesome than store-bought versions, with no preservatives or excessive sugar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds, roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries, raisins, or pumpkin chunks
Pro Tip: Use fresh spices for the most aromatic and flavorful granola.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Prep Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips from the sweetener mixture.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, nuts, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- Stir until evenly distributed.
Pro Tip: Toasting nuts beforehand (5–7 minutes at 350°F) adds a deeper flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup or honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Make sure the liquid ingredients are well combined for even coating.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients.
- Stir until all oats and nuts are evenly coated.
Pro Tip: If the mixture seems dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of additional maple syrup or oil.
5. Spread and Bake
- Spread the granola in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Watch closely during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
Pro Tip: For chunkier granola, press down slightly with a spatula and avoid excessive stirring.
6. Cool Completely
- Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet.
- It will crisp up as it cools.
- Once cooled, stir in dried fruit if desired.
Pro Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Flavor Variations
1. Classic Pumpkin Spice
- Stick with oats, nuts, seeds, and spices.
- Perfect for sprinkling over yogurt or oatmeal.
2. Maple Pecan Pumpkin Granola
- Use pecans and extra maple syrup for a sweet, nutty version.
3. Chocolate Drizzle
- Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
4. Cranberry & Pumpkin Seed
- Add dried cranberries and extra pepitas for color, texture, and flavor.
5. Savory Pumpkin Spice
- Reduce sweetener slightly and add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a spiced snack.
Tips for Perfect Granola
- Even Layer: Ensures consistent baking.
- Low and Slow: Baking at 325°F prevents burning and allows caramelization.
- Do Not Over-Stir: Stirring too much can prevent crunchy clusters.
- Cool Completely: Granola hardens and crisps as it cools.
- Store Properly: Airtight container or freezer to maintain crunch.
Pro Tip: For clumpier granola, press down lightly before baking and avoid stirring too much.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Provide fiber, help with digestion, and support heart health.
- Nuts & Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
- Pumpkin Spice: Adds flavor without calories or sugar.
- Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup and honey are less processed alternatives to refined sugar.
Pro Tip: Pair granola with Greek yogurt or milk for a balanced breakfast.
Serving Ideas
- Breakfast Cereal: Serve with milk or dairy-free alternatives.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt, fresh apples, or pumpkin puree.
- Snack: Eat straight from the jar or pack for on-the-go.
- Dessert Topping: Sprinkle over ice cream or pumpkin pie for added crunch.
- Gift: Pack in jars and tie with a ribbon for a festive fall gift.
Pro Tip: Add a dollop of nut butter to make a protein-packed snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- High Heat: Can burn nuts and oats before caramelization.
- Over-Stirring: Prevents formation of crunchy clusters.
- Adding Fruit Too Early: Dried fruit can burn if added before baking.
- Skipping Sweetener: Makes granola bland and less cohesive.
- Not Cooling Completely: Granola won’t crisp if packaged while warm.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Pre-Made Batches: Granola keeps well in airtight containers at room temperature for 1–2 weeks.
- Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Mix-Ins: Add dried fruit or chocolate chips after cooling.
Pro Tip: Portion into small snack bags for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Why Pumpkin Spice Granola Stands Out
- Fall Favorite: Captures the flavor of the season in a versatile way.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Customizable: Sweet, savory, nutty, or chocolatey—your choice.
- Versatile: Breakfast, snack, topping, or giftable treat.
Whether sprinkled over yogurt, enjoyed with milk, or eaten straight from the jar, pumpkin spice granola is a crowd-pleasing, aromatic, and satisfying treat.
