If you love the cozy flavors of fall with a touch of sweet and salty goodness, this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack or breakfast staple. Imagine crunchy oats and nuts cloaked in luscious pumpkin purée and rich caramel syrup, accented by a hint of sea salt that makes every bite irresistible. This granola is perfect for adding warmth to your mornings or munching on a flavorful treat any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the hearty oats providing a satisfying crunch, to the pumpkin purée that lends a natural sweetness and vibrant color, and the flaky sea salt that perfectly balances the caramel’s richness.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The base of your granola, offering a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: Adds a buttery crunch and subtle sweetness to every bite.
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds: These bring a lovely crunch and earthy taste, plus an extra festive touch.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée: Infuses the granola with seasonal warmth and natural moisture for that soft coating.
- 1/3 cup caramel syrup or caramel flavoring: The star ingredient providing luscious sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or melted butter: Helps bind the mixture and promotes even browning in the oven.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar (optional): For an extra layer of sunny-sweet notes if you crave more sweetness.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Blends cinnamon, nutmeg, and other cozy spices to evoke that classic autumn vibe.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and rounds out the caramel and pumpkin flavors.
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt): Balances the sweetness beautifully and adds a pop of flavor with each bite.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures that your granola bakes evenly without sticking, making cleanup a snap.
Step 2: Create the Warm Caramel-Pumpkin Mixture
In a saucepan, gently melt the coconut oil together with the caramel syrup and pumpkin purée, stirring until the mixture is smooth and combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant boost. This warm blend is what transforms ordinary oats into that irresistible salted caramel pumpkin delight.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together the oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. These dry ingredients lay the foundation for your granola’s texture and flavor, so be sure to mix them well.
Step 4: Coat the Dry Mix with the Pumpkin-Caramel Sauce
Pour the luscious warm mixture over the dry ingredients and use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss until every oat and nut is luxuriously coated. This is the step where the magic happens, turning a simple granola into a caramel pumpkin sensation.
Step 5: Spread and Bake to Golden Perfection
Evenly spread the coated mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through. The stirring helps the granola brown evenly and develop that perfect crunch we’re after.
Step 6: Let It Cool Completely
Once it’s out of the oven, allow your granola to cool fully on the baking sheet. As it cools, it crisps up into those delightful clusters packed with salty-sweet goodness.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to two weeks. This means you have plenty of time to enjoy this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe at your leisure!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe
Garnishes
This granola shines on its own, but adding fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries can bring freshness and a pleasant contrast. Sprinkle a few extra pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of caramel syrup on top, and you’ve got a visually stunning and deliciously textured bowl.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside creamy yogurt or your favorite milk for a delightful, nutrient-packed breakfast. It’s also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a dessert twist that will leave everyone asking for more.
Creative Ways to Present
Use the salted caramel pumpkin granola as a crunchy topping on oatmeal or pumpkin mousse. You can layer it into parfaits with whipped cream and fruit or even sprinkle it over warm baked apples for an elegant holiday treat or casual snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your granola fresh in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or humidity. It will maintain its crunch and flavor for up to two weeks, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting.
Freezing
If you want to preserve your granola even longer, freezing it is a great option. Place the granola in a freezer-safe bag or container, seal tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to restore its crisp texture.
Reheating
Though typically enjoyed at room temperature, you can warm your granola briefly in a low oven or toaster oven if you prefer it toasty and fragrant. Just a few minutes will revive the crunchy clusters for an extra comforting snack.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully and provide a different crunch and flavor profile that complements the salted caramel and pumpkin notes.
Is it possible to make this granola vegan?
Yes, simply use coconut oil instead of butter and select a vegan-friendly caramel syrup. Also, ensure your optional maple syrup is pure to keep this treat vegan and delicious!
Can I skip the caramel syrup and use brown sugar instead?
You can, though the caramel syrup adds a unique depth and glossy coating to the granola. If using brown sugar, consider melting it with the coconut oil and pumpkin purée to mimic the caramel’s texture.
How do I get big clusters in my granola?
Press the granola firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid stirring too much mid-bake to encourage chunkier clusters. Letting it cool undisturbed also helps cluster formation.
Can I double this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe?
Yes, doubling works well—just be sure to use a larger baking sheet or bake in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe is a cozy, crunchy celebration of autumn’s best flavors wrapped in a little sweet and salty magic. It’s so simple to make yet packed with personality and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself. Give it a try and bring a little pumpkin caramel joy to your pantry!
Print
Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Granola combines the warm flavors of pumpkin purée, caramel, and pumpkin pie spice to create a rich, crunchy, and slightly sweet snack or breakfast topping. Perfectly balanced with a touch of flaky sea salt and crunchy pecans and pumpkin seeds, this homemade granola is baked to a golden crisp and offers a delightful seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup caramel syrup or caramel flavoring
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or melted butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the granola does not stick and for easy cleanup.
- Melt the Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan, gently melt the coconut oil along with the caramel syrup and pumpkin purée, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, ensuring even distribution.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the warm caramel-pumpkin mixture over the dry ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat every oat and nut evenly with the wet mixture.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the coated granola evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to promote even baking and prevent burning, until the granola turns a golden brown color.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the granola to cool on the baking sheet completely. This cooling step lets the granola crisp up properly.
- Store Properly: Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, maintaining freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; instant oats will result in mushier granola.
- If you want a sweeter granola, feel free to add the optional maple syrup or brown sugar.
- Stirring halfway through baking prevents burning and ensures even toasting of the granola.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Store the granola in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
