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    Home » Recipes » Healthy Snack Recipes

    Maple Pecan Homemade Granola Clusters

    Modified: Nov 25, 2024 · Published: Aug 15, 2022 by Shelby Stover · This post may contain affiliate links · 44 Comments

    Jump to Recipe
    Pin image with text: two images of homemade granola glusters the top of a hand holding a cluster close up with more on a baking tray behind them and the bottom of a glass bowl filled with granola clusters and more around it
    Pin image with text: two images of homemade granola glusters the top of a hand holding a cluster close up with more on a baking tray behind them and the bottom of a glass bowl filled with granola clusters and more around it
    Pin image with text: Baking sheet lined with parchment paper with granola clusters on it and a hand holding on cluster close up

    Curl up with a bowl of comfort in these maple pecan granola clusters! These clusters can be enjoyed soft or crunchy but either way they make a nutrient-packed snack or breakfast! Made with only eight ingredients this homemade granola recipe is easy to whip up and have on hand for the tops of yogurt, as cereal, or just grabbed out of the fridge!

    Baking sheet lined with parchment paper with granola clusters on it and a hand holding on cluster close up

    Finding the crunchy granola clusters in a box is always the best part. But now you can enjoy that bliss with a full batch!

    These granola clusters come out of the oven soft and stay that way if kept at room temperature. However if placed into the fridge, all of a sudden you’ve got delicious, crunchy clusters full of goodness.

    Why you’ll want more and more of these homemade granola clusters:

    • Easy to make with just 8 ingredients
    • Loaded with healthy fats
    • A cozy, maple cinnamon flavor
    • Allergy-friendly (dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan)

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    As a certified nutrition coach, you won't find any brown sugar in this granola recipe as it's sweetened with only maple syrup- like this chocolate protein granola. But know that brown sugar isn't needed. This homemade granola is just as delicious and comforting as you'd expect from a nutty blend.

    Regular Oats: make sure to grab gluten-free oats if you need them. Likewise, quick oats won’t work for this recipe.

    Pecans: it doesn’t matter if you grab whole or halves as you’ll be processing them a bit. Just make sure not to grab salted.

    Large coconut flakes: you want the thick-cut pieces of coconut as these are going to make the granola recipe have some texture.

    Hazelnut butter: this is for maximum indulgence but know that any nut butter will work fine. Just make sure to use fresh nut butter so that it’s still runny.

    Maple syrup: grab the real stuff, not a corb syrup-based one or the flavor of the clusters will be reduced.

    Coconut oil: cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil has the best health perks but it also has a slightly coconut taste. So, use what you’re comfortable with.

    Vanilla extract: don't skip the vanilla! It's a small amount but it helps with the comforting maple cinnamon flavor.

    Multiple ingredients like pecans, coconut, maple syrup and more in measuring spoons and bowls wi

    How To Make Maple Granola Clusters

    1. Process the pecans and oats for 5-10 seconds, keeping them chunky.
    2. The oats and pecan mixture, coconut, and cinnamon. Mix well.
    3. Melt the coconut oil and add in the remaining ingredients
    4. Mix well until everything is coated and sticky.
    5. Dump the mixture onto a lined baking tray
    6. Use a spatula to press the mixture down to about ¼ inch and firmly together.
    7. Bake and let cool completely before breaking into clusters.

    Step By Step Photos

    Pecans, cinnamon and oats in a mini food processor
    Pulse the oats and pecans lightly.
    Maple syrup being poured into a steel bowl with coconut chips in it and a blue linen behind it
    Add in the remaining ingredients and mix until sticky.
    Homemade granola on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and more granola behind it
    Portion onto a baking tray and press together and flat.
    Cooked granola oin a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and a hand breaking it into clusters with a bowl of homemade granola and a blue linen behind it
    Bake and do not stir. Let cool fully before breaking into clusters.

    Important Teaching Tips

    The granola is super delicate coming out of the oven so don’t overlook letting it cool completely.

    Don’t just rip off clusters, use a silicone spatula to loosen up the bottom and then break clusters off with your hands.

    If you want soft clusters, leave them at room temperature. If you prefer crunchy clusters, pop them into the fridge where they’ll firm up.

    Make sure to use parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet to make it easier to break the clusters after baking.

    You’ll want to use the large flake coconut (no shredded coconut) to give the granola the best texture. Do not add dried fruit into the recipe. Dried fruit will make it so that the clusters don't bind together (though for regular homemade granola, dried fruit is amazing!).

    Note: I did make this recipe once with pumpkin seeds in place of the oats to make it grain-free. It can be done (and I think sunflower seeds would work too) though cooking times may be slightly longer.

    How To Enjoy The Custers

    These homemade granola clusters are a delicious food all by themselves, popped into your mouth out of the fridge! However, they’re also amazing as:

    • Smoothie bowl toppers
    • In a yogurt parfait
    • On top of overnight oats or chia pudding
    • In place of cereal with some creamy hemp milk.
    A glass bowl of granola clusters with clusters and a blue linen around it and a hand holding up one of the granola clusters

    Fast, crave-worthy snacks that hit your protein goals (without tracking or extra cooking time).

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Granola Clusters

    How long does granola last for?

    On the counter in a sealed container, gluten-free granola clusters will last 5-7 days. In the fridge, clusters will last 2-3 weeks in a sealed container.

    What makes granola clump together?

    The stickier your granola mixture is from ut butter and sweetener (in this case maple syrup) the better the granola will hold together. The sugar in the syrup hardens once it’s cooked and that holds the clusters together.

    Why do my granola clusters fall apart?

    If yuu left the pecans too large the granola will have a harder time sticking together. It will also fall apart right out of the oven before it is fully cooled.

    Other Snack Recipes You’ll Love

    • Gluten-free granola cups
    • Cookie dough overnight protein oats
    • Easy vanilla protein bars
    • Cookie dough balls
    • Homemade crunchy granola
    • High protein granola
    • Fudgy protein brownies
    • Peanut butter and jam protein balls
    • Easy protein pancakes
    • Protein cookies
    • Banana protein donuts
    • The best high-protein snacks
    • Salted caramel protein fluff
    • Gluten-free pantry staples
    • High protein snack ideas
    • No-bake snacks
    Baking sheet lined with parchment paper with granola clusters on it and a hand holding on cluster close up

     Homemade Granola Clusters

    Shelby Stover
    These easy granola clusters are easy to make and gluten-free! Made with a crunchy blend of pecans and coconut seeds and sweetened with a hint of maple they make the BEST topper to any smoothie or yogurt bowl.
    5 from 21 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 25 minutes mins
    Cooling time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 5
    Calories 356 kcal

    Video

    Equipment

    • 1 Silicone baking sheet

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup Regular rolled oats Gluten-free if needed
    • ½ cup Halved pecans Generous half cup
    • ½ cup Large coconut flakes
    • ¼ cup Hazelnut butter
    • ¼ cup Maple syrup
    • 2 tbs Coconut oil
    • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat the oven to 300 degrees farhenheit.
    • In a mini food processor, process the pecans and oats for 5-10 seconds. You don’t want them to be a powder. Make sure there are still lots of chunks.
    • In a small bowl, combine the oat mixture, coconut, and cinnamon. Mix well.
    • Melt the coconut oil and add in the remaining ingredients (alternatively, you could whisk them together first and pour them in).
    • Mix well until everything is coated and sticky.
    • Line a baking tray with parchment paper and dump out the granola mixture. Use a spatula to press the mixture down to about ¼ inch and firmly together.
    • The better pressed down and even it is, the better your clusters will be.
    • Bake for 22 minutes and let cool completely once done (for 30 minutes).
    • Use a silicone spatula to loosen the granola and use your hands to break it into small clusters.

    Notes

    The granola is super delicate coming out of the oven so don’t overlook letting it cool completely. If you want “harder” clusters, pop the granola into the fridge for an hour where they’ll firm up.
    Makes roughly 15-20 clusters or 3-4 cups
    Don’t just rip off clusters, use a silicone spatula to loosen up the bottom and then break clusters off with your hands.
    If you want soft clusters, leave them at room temperature. If you prefer crunchy clusters, pop them into the fridge where they’ll firm up.
    Brown sugar cannot replace maple syrup.
    Disclaimer:

    Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data"

    Nutrition

    Calories: 356kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 7mgPotassium: 278mgFiber: 5gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 7IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 83mgIron: 2mg
    Keyword gluten-free, Granola, homemade granola
    Have You Tried This Recipe?Please leave a star rating and comment below. Mention @fitasamamabear or tag #fitasamamabear!

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    Comments

    1. Jere Cassidy says

      August 15, 2022 at 1:55 pm

      5 stars
      I love this idea of making granola in clusters and your recipe works great and is perfect to munch on.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:55 am

        I never thought to make it into clusters until I kept only eating that part of the granola haha

        Reply
    2. MacKenzie says

      August 15, 2022 at 11:10 pm

      5 stars
      These granola clusters are perfect. Can’t wait to try it with my morning yogurt bowl. So much better than store bought,

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:55 am

        They're SO YUMMY in yogurt, enjoy!

        Reply
    3. Genevieve says

      August 16, 2022 at 1:53 am

      5 stars
      I really love granola and this was a super delicious flavor combination. I'm a sucker for both pecans and maple so this was a winner for me. Thank you for the delicious recipe and helpful notes!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:56 am

        It's such a comfort flavor, glad you enjoyed them!

        Reply
    4. Rupali says

      August 16, 2022 at 5:01 am

      5 stars
      I made a large batch of it, and it makes me so happy to crunch through these at breakfast! The maple flavor just makes it wonderful.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:56 am

        Hehe glad you liked it!

        Reply
    5. k says

      August 16, 2022 at 10:53 am

      5 stars
      I shouldn't be, but I am so in love with the crunch of granola. I try to limit it cuz I know it's a 'sometimes' snack. But these clusters?! OMG they are so good! I like that I can batch out my crunch craving and save the rest for later.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:56 am

        Haha granola is one of my biggest weaknesses to be honest so I feel yah!

        Reply
    6. Sherry says

      August 16, 2022 at 9:44 pm

      5 stars
      I have been addicted to granola lately and wanted to learn how to make my own granola pieces. Your maple pecan homemade granola recipe was so easy to make and it tasted amazing!!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:56 am

        Glad it hit the spot!

        Reply
    7. Megan says

      August 17, 2022 at 8:30 am

      5 stars
      Shelby, this is such a delicious treat!! I LOVE the hazelnut butter option, as they're my favorite nut, and it puts the whole flavor of these over the top. Definitely dessert-meets-snack/breakfast!! SO yummy, thank you!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:56 am

        Hazelnuts just make everything more INDULGENT!

        Reply
    8. jennifer says

      August 17, 2022 at 8:32 am

      5 stars
      The perfect snack for kids' lunchboxes, and by kids lunchboxes, I mean . . my purse and gymbag!!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:57 am

        Haha definitely perfect for purses!

        Reply
    9. Janessa says

      August 17, 2022 at 10:14 am

      5 stars
      Clusters are definitely the best part of granola! These turned out so tasty and chunky- perfect for packing along for a quick snack on the go.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:57 am

        They truly are!

        Reply
    10. Donny says

      August 19, 2022 at 5:43 pm

      5 stars
      These are so good! And all your tips were super helpful. I probably would not have waited long enough for them to cool but I'm glad I did, lol.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 21, 2022 at 6:53 am

        Haha it is HARD to wait for them to firm up. I'll be the first to admit that half the tray is gone before then...

        Reply
    11. nancy says

      August 20, 2022 at 12:29 pm

      5 stars
      i make a big batch every sunday to munch thru the week. So tasty and your tips were really helpful

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 21, 2022 at 6:54 am

        Such a great meal prep recipe, glad you loved them!

        Reply
    12. Stacey says

      August 20, 2022 at 12:42 pm

      5 stars
      I love that these are in nice clusters for snacking! Rarely do I add milk to granola. I can bring these on a hike in a bag for munching. I like the maple pecan flavor too!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 21, 2022 at 6:54 am

        I'm the same! My kids want milk sometimes but mainly we just munch lol

        Reply
      • Sharina says

        April 26, 2023 at 8:58 pm

        5 stars
        Brought these homemade granola clusters on our family picnic and they were a hit! I love the crunchy while kids love the soft and chewy. We also topped these with whipped cream, so yummy!

        Reply
        • fitasamamabear says

          April 27, 2023 at 12:40 pm

          Omg they'd be perfect with whipped cream!

          Reply
    13. Andrea says

      August 20, 2022 at 5:24 pm

      these granola clusters are the perfect snack! oh so good!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 21, 2022 at 6:54 am

        Glad ou enjoy them!

        Reply
    14. Sarah says

      August 20, 2022 at 6:36 pm

      5 stars
      These have got my husband written All over them he loves and kind of ceral cluster, we akways have several boxes in the cupboard. Never thought to make my own. Might have to make a double batch as I'm sure I'll need to 'taste test' lots before I give then to him 😀

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 21, 2022 at 6:55 am

        Haha clusters are just so easy to eat! But it's SO easy to make your own... double the batch lol I eat half to tray waiting for them to cool lol

        Reply
    15. Katie says

      August 22, 2022 at 8:42 am

      5 stars
      Oh these are an absolute dream! The best crunch from a homemade granola I have ever had!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        August 24, 2022 at 7:47 pm

        Happy to hear it, that's the best part!

        Reply
    16. Glenda says

      September 14, 2022 at 7:20 pm

      5 stars
      This is my new favorite snack! I love al the texture and the maple syrup hazelnut butter combination. So good!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        September 14, 2022 at 8:35 pm

        Haha they're such a pop in your mouth one! I love them too!

        Reply
    17. Glenda says

      October 09, 2022 at 12:16 pm

      5 stars
      These are the best lunchbox treats and after school snacks! Oh my goodness they're delicious! The kids think they're getting cookies and I'm okay with that!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        October 11, 2022 at 12:41 pm

        They're just so easy to eat!

        Reply
    18. Jo Keohane says

      April 26, 2023 at 3:11 pm

      5 stars
      wow these are utterly yummy. I'm always looking for GF breakfast ideas, thank you for the recipe!!

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        April 27, 2023 at 12:39 pm

        Haha so easy to eat right?1

        Reply
    19. Addison says

      April 26, 2023 at 6:03 pm

      5 stars
      These granola clusters were so crunchy and delicious! Such a great snack or kids or adults.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        April 27, 2023 at 12:39 pm

        Hehe they are!

        Reply
    20. Jere Cassidy says

      April 26, 2023 at 6:40 pm

      5 stars
      I gave up on any store-bought granola and found your recipe to make my own. I love the flavor and the cluster idea for a fun snack.

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        April 27, 2023 at 12:39 pm

        Honestly store bought is just over priced and it's so easy to make!

        Reply
    21. Louise says

      April 27, 2023 at 1:00 am

      5 stars
      My daughter and I LOVE these clusters!!!
      We eat them as cereal in the morning with milk but also as a snack after dinner!

      The coconut is perfect in them! So we use a extra virgin coconut oil as we both love the flavor.

      Thanks for a great recipe 🙂

      Reply
      • fitasamamabear says

        April 27, 2023 at 12:40 pm

        I'm glad you both love them! They're sooo easy to eat i have to stop from eating the batch lol

        Reply
    5 from 21 votes

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    I'm Shelby, a Certified Strength & Nutrition Coach who has spent the last 10 years helping women feel more comfortable in their skin though home strength training and healthy food- no diets, no shortcuts

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