If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming snack that will make your kitchen smell like fall, then this Pumpkin Spice Granola is just what you need! There’s something so comforting about the blend of spices mixed with the nuttiness of oats. This granola is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something quick and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat with milk or yogurt or nibbled on its own, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this Pumpkin Spice Granola in under an hour!
Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts and seeds to create a personalized blend that suits your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it as a quick breakfast or snack throughout the days ahead.
Deliciously Flavorful: The warm spices combined with pumpkin create an irresistible flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Healthier Snacking: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this granola makes for a guilt-free treat any time of the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Spice Granola uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these pantry staples, and you’ll be on your way to making something truly special!

For the Base

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

For Binding

1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable/sunflower oil
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 cup (120g) pumpkin purée (not pie filling)

Optional Add-Ins

1/2 – 3/4 cup pumpkin seeds, cranberries, pecans, etc.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to suit your taste preferences.

Add Different Nuts: Swap in walnuts or almonds for a crunchy twist.
Try Dried Fruits: Add raisins or chopped dates for a hint of sweetness.
Make It Chocolatey: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips after baking for an extra indulgence.
Change Up the Spices: Experiment with cardamom or even cocoa powder for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Granola

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 160C/325F. This step ensures that your granola bakes evenly and gets nice and crispy. Line a baking tray with a Silpat, silicone mat, or greaseproof paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, light brown sugar, all those aromatic spices, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is coated in those delicious flavors. This step sets the foundation for your granola’s fantastic taste!

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the vegetable oil, maple syrup, and pumpkin purée. Mix well until everything is nicely combined. The wet ingredients help bind the dry ones together while infusing them with moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Spread on Baking Tray

Transfer the mixture onto your prepared baking tray. Spread it out evenly but don’t worry about flattening it into one layer; clumps are good! These clusters will create delightful bites later on.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop it into the oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes. Make sure to stir every 15 minutes so that all sides get toasted evenly. You want that lovely golden color and crisp texture that makes granola so addictive!

Step 6: Cool Before Storing

Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature. Cooling helps it become crunchy!

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve your homemade Pumpkin Spice Granola with milk or yogurt—or simply grab handfuls as a tasty snack! It’s perfect for breakfast or whenever you need a little pick-me-up during the day.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’re ready to enjoy delicious Pumpkin Spice Granola anytime you crave something comforting yet nutritious!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Granola

Making granola at home is a fun and rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Pumpkin Spice Granola turns out perfectly every time!

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices pack a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground ones. This can elevate your granola’s taste and give it that delicious autumn aroma.
Don’t Skip the Clumping: When spreading the mixture on the baking tray, leave some clumps. These clusters add texture and make your granola more enjoyable to eat.
Adjust Sweetness to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference. This customization allows you to create a granola that fits your taste perfectly.
Experiment with Add-Ins: While pumpkin seeds and cranberries are great options, consider adding coconut flakes or sunflower seeds for a unique twist! The variety keeps things interesting and adds extra nutrition.
Store Properly: Ensure the granola is completely cooled before storing it in an airtight container. This keeps it crunchy longer without becoming stale.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Granola

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Granola can be as simple or as creative as you like! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting treat.

Garnishes

Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or almonds on top for added crunch and healthy fats.
Fresh Fruit: Add slices of banana or berries to give a fresh touch and complement the warm spices in the granola.
Coconut Yogurt: For a creamy element, serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the granola while providing refreshing flavors.
Warm Oatmeal: Pairing your granola with warm oatmeal creates a hearty breakfast option that’s both filling and satisfying.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chai or chamomile, complements the spiced flavors beautifully, making your meal cozy and comforting.
Smoothies: A berry or green smoothie can provide a nutritious side dish, creating a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Granola in delightful new ways! Happy munching!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Granola is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, making breakfast or snacking super easy.

Storing Leftovers

Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature.
It will stay fresh for up to one week.
Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunchiness.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the granola.
Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
It can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen granola, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
You can also pop it in the oven at a low temperature (around 150C/300F) for about 10 minutes to refresh its crunch.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making your Pumpkin Spice Granola.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Granola with different add-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nuts, seeds, or dried fruits of your choice. Just keep the total amount of add-ins between 1/2 cup and 3/4 cup.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Spice Granola is crunchy?

To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure to spread the mixture evenly on the baking tray and stir every 15 minutes while baking. This will help toast all the oats evenly.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats in this recipe?

It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this Pumpkin Spice Granola. Quick oats may not hold their shape during baking and could turn mushy.

How long does homemade Pumpkin Spice Granola last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade granola will stay fresh for about one week at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful Pumpkin Spice Granola! It’s such a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and gives you a delicious snack or breakfast option ready at hand. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your favorite add-ins! Happy cooking!