Pumpkin Seed Granola Recipe

For the base of this deliciously crunchy granola, you'll first need some oats. These are mixed together with chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. For the wet ingredients, you'll need to mix some melted coconut oil with agave syrup and vanilla extract. Once poured over the dry ingredients, mixed well, and baked to perfection, a final scattering of raisins is added to the mix before storing.

Add pecans to the bowl of a food processor and pulse until chopped.

In a separate medium bowl, stir together the coconut oil, agave syrup, and vanilla extract.

Spread granola mixture in an even layer onto 2 parchment-lined baking sheets.

Remove the granola from the oven, scatter raisins on top, and leave to cool completely.

This granola makes a great accompaniment to a range of fruits, milks, and yogurts. Our favorite way to enjoy it is with a good dollop of Greek yogurt and a scattering of raspberries and blueberries. You can even add an extra drizzle of agave syrup or honey to add some extra sweetness if desired. The smooth and creamy yogurt works wonderfully alongside the crunchy, spiced granola and slightly tart berries.

If you're a fan of plant-based alternatives, try our pumpkin seed granola with almond or coconut milk. The subtle nuttiness of these milk options can add an extra layer of flavor to the granola experience. Another great option is to scatter a handful of granola over a smoothie or homemade acai bowl, adding a little satisfying crunch while easily keeping everything vegan-friendly. Whether you prefer the classic combinations or want to experiment with more creative pairings, this pumpkin seed granola is a super versatile recipe that's easy to make and ready to effortlessly enhance any breakfast or snack.

Absolutely! The terms pumpkin seed and pepita are often used interchangeably. Pepitas are the green, hulled form of pumpkin seeds that you will typically find sold in health food stores. They are a fantastic choice for enhancing the nutty and earthy flavors in granola, and the form we opted for in this recipe. These little green powerhouses not only add a delightful crunch but also contribute a wealth of nutrients to your granola.

In their raw form, straight from the pumpkin, the seeds still offer all the same health benefits, but will have a tough whiteish-yellow protective shell around them. Pumpkin seeds are less commonly sold in this form, though still completely edible! You can also use un-hulled pumpkin seeds in this recipe and follow exactly the same method, as the tougher outer shell will crisp up nicely as the granola bakes, making them just as easy to crunch away on as part of your delicious healthy breakfast.