Apple Pecan Granola
This apple pecan granola is a perfect use for your freshly picked orchard apples. It bakes up incredibly crispy and is packed with warm, comforting flavors. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or straight from the jar.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, and finely diced dried apple pieces.
- 3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, applesauce, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
- 4
Pour the wet ingredients over the oat mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- 5
Spread the granola mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- 6
Bake for 30 minutes, stirring gently halfway through. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
- 7
Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
Baker's tips
For the dried apple pieces, thinly slice one medium U-Pick apple and bake at 200°F until leathery and dry, or use a food dehydrator. For the applesauce, simply blend a small U-Pick apple until smooth. Store cooled granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best apples for Apple Pecan Granola?+
For apple pecan granola, use a firm baking apple that holds its shape once cooked, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, Jonagold, or a mix of two varieties gives the best flavor balance between sweet and tart.
Can I make Apple Pecan Granola ahead of time?+
Yes. Most baked apple desserts keep well for 2 days at room temperature covered loosely, or up to 5 days refrigerated. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to restore the crisp texture.
Can I freeze Apple Pecan Granola?+
Most apple bakes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap tightly in foil and freezer-safe bags, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Do I need to peel the apples?+
Peeling gives a smoother texture and is traditional for pies and butters. For rustic crisps, crumbles, and sauces the skin adds fiber, color, and flavor, leave it on if you prefer.
Where can I pick my own apples for this recipe?+
Fresh-picked apples make a real difference in baking. Use our directory to find a U-Pick orchard near you and check our ripening calendar to see which varieties are ready this week.
Explore next
Find U-Pick apples near you →
Fresh-picked apples make baking better. See orchards close to home.
Best baking apple varieties →
Compare Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, and more.
When apples are ready to pick →
Month-by-month ripening across every US region.
More apple recipes →
Browse pies, crisps, cider, butter, breads, and more.
More apple recipes
Fresh Pressed Apple Juice
Experience the pure, crisp taste of autumn with homemade fresh pressed apple juice. Using apples you picked yourself makes this drink even more special. It's a delightful and refreshing way to enjoy the season's bounty.
Baked Apples Stuffed with Pecans and Cranberries
This baked apple recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the crisp, sweet apples you just picked from the orchard. Filled with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries, these warm, spiced apples are a delightful treat. It's an easy dessert that truly highlights the fresh flavor of U-Pick apples.
Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Crumble
This classic apple crisp is the perfect way to showcase juicy, fresh-picked apples. With a warm cinnamon apple filling and a buttery oat crumble topping, it's a comforting dessert for any occasion. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.