Brown Butter Maple Granola

Brown Butter Maple Granola

There’s something truly magical about making Brown Butter Maple Granola in the comfort of your own kitchen. Picture this: a crisp autumn morning, the leaves are turning golden, and the scent of warm, nutty granola fills the air. I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was looking for a wholesome breakfast option that was not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of toasted oats, crunchy nuts, and the rich aroma of brown butter creates a perfect harmony that no store-bought granola can replicate.

As I carefully stir the mixture, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This recipe has become a staple in my household, offering a delightful start to the day or a perfect snack to keep us energized. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable! Whether you’re adding your favorite dried fruits or a sprinkle of chocolate, the Brown Butter Maple Granola always delivers. And who could resist that crunchy texture? Each bite is a reminder of the love and care that goes into homemade cooking. So, let’s dive into this wonderful recipe together and make your mornings a little sweeter.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
230 kcal
Protein:
4 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Frying Pan, Oven

The Best Thing About This Brown Butter Maple Granola

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Brown Butter Maple Granola stands out for so many reasons! Here are a few that make it a beloved recipe in my kitchen.

1. The Rich, Nutty Flavor

The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. As it caramelizes, the butter transforms, giving the granola a warm, toasty flavor that elevates your morning routine. It’s a game changer!

2. Homemade Goodness

There’s a unique satisfaction in making your own granola. Unlike store-bought versions, this one is free from preservatives and packed with wholesome ingredients. You can feel good about what you’re eating!

3. Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Want to add some dried mango or swap the nuts for seeds? Go ahead! The Brown Butter Maple Granola can easily be tailored to fit your cravings and preferences.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This granola stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to a month. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something quick and nutritious. Just grab a handful, and you’re good to go!

5. A Delicious Snack

Not just for breakfast, this granola makes for a fantastic snack too. Whether you’re hiking, at work, or just lounging at home, a handful of this crunchy goodness is sure to satisfy your hunger.

What to Gather for Brown Butter Maple Granola

Brown Butter Maple Granola

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating the perfect granola. In this recipe, we’re using a blend of wholesome items that not only taste amazing together but also provide a great mix of textures. The key players include hearty oats, sweet coconut, and crunchy nuts that will give your granola that satisfying crunch.

  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats – The base of your granola, providing that necessary chewiness.
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut – Adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flavor.
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds – For a nice crunch and nutty flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans – These lend a buttery richness to the granola.
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness and contributes to the overall caramel flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup – The natural sweetener that ties everything together.
  • 1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Unsalted Butter – For that beautiful brown butter flavor.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla – Adds richness and complexity.
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries – For a fruity pop that complements the nutty flavors.

Step by Step Guide for Brown Butter Maple Granola

Brown Butter Maple Granola

Making Brown Butter Maple Granola is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of this tasty treat.

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 300 degrees F. This is crucial for achieving the perfect crunch. Line a large baking sheet with either a Slipat or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Setting it aside now will save you time later.

  2. Next, take a large mixing bowl and combine the old-fashioned oats, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they’re evenly mixed. The aromas will start to mingle, creating a mouth-watering preview of what’s to come.

  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the Land O Lakes® Unsalted Butter. Keep an eye on it as you swirl it occasionally; you’ll want it to turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a nutty aroma. This step is what brings the entire dish to life! Once this happens, remove it from heat.

  4. Pour the melted brown butter into a medium bowl and immediately add the maple syrup and vanilla. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re smooth and fully combined. You’ll notice the rich color and texture come together beautifully.

  5. Now it’s time to pour this luscious brown butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the dry ingredients are well-coated. This is where the magic truly happens, as all the flavors come together.

  6. Transfer the granola mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. This will help everything to bake uniformly. If you want extra crunch, press it down slightly with a spatula.

  7. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Every 10 minutes, take it out and stir the granola to ensure even toasting. You’ll want to watch it closely as it transforms into a lovely golden brown, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma.

  8. Once your granola is golden brown, remove it from the oven. Now is the time to stir in the dried cranberries. This will add a burst of color and flavor to the mix. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet, as it will continue to harden as it cools.

  9. Finally, once cooled, transfer your granola to an airtight container where it can be stored for up to a month. Each time you reach for a handful, you’ll remember the joy of making this delicious Brown Butter Maple Granola!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the granola inside to ensure even cooking.
  • Brown Butter Technique: Watch the butter closely as it turns brown; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
  • Mixing Well: Ensure the wet ingredients coat every bit of the dry mixture for better flavor distribution.
  • Cool Completely: Letting the granola cool on the baking sheet is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

How to Switch It Up

Brown Butter Maple Granola

While the Brown Butter Maple Granola is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are some great ideas!

  • Storage: Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy.
  • Freezing: You can freeze portions of the granola for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
  • Variations: Try using different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique twist!
  • Sweeteners: Experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
  • Add-Ins: Consider adding seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition. Dried fruits like raisins or apricots can also enhance the flavor.

Accompaniments for Brown Butter Maple Granola

There are so many wonderful ways to serve Brown Butter Maple Granola. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

  • With Yogurt: Serve your granola over a bowl of creamy yogurt. It adds a delightful contrast and makes for a hearty breakfast.
  • As a Snack: Grab a handful of granola for a quick pick-me-up during your day. It’s perfect for busy schedules!
  • Pair with Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries or sliced bananas complement the granola beautifully, adding freshness and extra flavor.
  • For Smoothie Bowls: Sprinkle granola on top of smoothie bowls for added texture and taste.
  • Breakfast Parfaits: Layer granola with yogurt and fruit in a glass for a stunning presentation.
  • Gift Idea: Package the granola in a mason jar, and you have a thoughtful homemade gift for friends or family.

FAQ

Brown butter is made by cooking regular butter over low heat until the milk solids turn golden brown, giving it a rich, nutty flavor. This process adds depth to recipes like Brown Butter Maple Granola, enhancing its taste significantly. The result is a beautiful golden color and a unique aroma that transforms any dish into something special. It’s a simple technique that can elevate your cooking!

While you can use quick oats, I recommend sticking with old-fashioned oats for Brown Butter Maple Granola. Old-fashioned oats hold their shape and provide the desired texture in granola, creating that perfect crunch. Quick oats may become too soft and mushy, which can alter the final result. If you’re looking for the best texture, opt for the traditional rolled oats!

To keep your Brown Butter Maple Granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will preserve its crunchiness and flavor. You can also freeze portions of granola if you want to keep it for longer; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

The beauty of Brown Butter Maple Granola is its versatility. You can add a variety of nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to personalize it to your liking. Consider adding pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or dried apricots. You can even mix in dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat! Feel free to experiment with whatever you enjoy most.

Conclusion

The Brown Butter Maple Granola is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes breakfast exciting. It’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to your taste preferences, ensuring everyone will enjoy it. I encourage you to try making it and discover how it can brighten your mornings!

Brown Butter Maple Granola

Brown Butter Maple Granola

The ultimate breakfast treat, Brown Butter Maple Granola combines the rich flavor of brown butter with sweet maple syrup and crunchy nuts, making it the perfect start to your day. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this easy recipe is a delicious way to satisfy your morning cravings!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Frying Pan
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries

Instructions
 

  • 1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with a Slipat or parchment paper. Set aside.
  • 2. In a large bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, chopped pecans, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt. Set aside.
  • 3. In a small saucepan, melt the Land O Lakes® Unsalted Butter over medium heat and continue to cook, swirling occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and pour into a medium bowl. Add the pure maple syrup and vanilla. Whisk until combined.
  • 4. Pour the brown butter maple mixture over dry ingredients. Stir until dry ingredients are well-coated.
  • 5. Pour the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread granola into an even layer. Bake for 35 minutes or until granola is golden brown, stirring every 10 minutes.
  • 6. Remove from oven and stir in dried cranberries. Let the granola cool completely. Store in an air-tight container for up to 1 month.

Notes

  • Storage: Store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy.
  • Freezing: You can freeze portions of the granola for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
  • Variations: Try using different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique twist!
  • Sweeteners: Experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
  • Add-Ins: Consider adding seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition. Dried fruits like raisins or apricots can also enhance the flavor.
Keyword Brown Butter Granola, Granola with Nuts, Healthy Granola Snack, Maple Granola Recipe

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