Save This Spiced Pumpkin Seed Granola Clusters recipe brings together everything I crave in a snack or breakfast—the sweet crunch, the warm aroma of cinnamon, and hearty clumps you can grab by the handful. These clusters are the ultimate answer to store-bought granola that never gets the size or crispness quite right. With just a few pantry favorites and a single bowl, you can turn your kitchen into a cozy bakery and stash away crunchy, nourishing snacks for days.
I set out to make these during pumpkin season one year and they have become the granola everyone in my house requests each fall. I even give jars as gifts and they disappear in a flash.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: adds heartiness and chew look for plump whole flakes for the best structure
- Raw pumpkin seeds: also called pepitas offer crunch and a buttery flavor select bright green seeds with no cracks
- Pure maple syrup: brings natural sweetness choose grade A or B for rich caramel tones
- Virgin coconut oil: helps achieve perfect crispness choose unrefined for a hint of coconut flavor
- Brown sugar: deepens the sweetness and helps clustering use lightly packed organic if available
- Ground cinnamon and cloves: give warmth and signature autumn spice look for fresh-spices with a strong scent
- Fine sea salt: balances the sweetness make sure it is evenly granulated
- Egg white: works as a natural binder for tight clusters use a cold fresh egg for best results
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor opt for pure vanilla whenever possible
- Optional mix-ins: chopped dried cranberries or dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper this prevents sticking and encourages even browning
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a big mixing bowl whisk together the maple syrup melted coconut oil brown sugar egg white and vanilla extract Whisk until glossy and completely smooth to ensure all the flavors are well combined
- Blend the Dry Ingredients:
- Sprinkle the rolled oats pumpkin seeds cinnamon cloves and salt over the wet mixture Stir gently but thoroughly so every oat and seed is coated and glossy which is key for robust clusters
- Form Clusters and Pan:
- Pour the mixture onto your lined sheet pan Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer about half an inch thick Gently press down and use your hands to squeeze portions together for larger chunks
- Bake to Golden Crunch:
- Place the sheet pan in the oven Bake for twenty minutes then rotate the pan to promote even browning Continue baking another fifteen to twenty minutes Wait for deep golden edges and a firm feel The aroma will tell you it is done
- Cool and Break Into Clusters:
- Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the pan It crisps up as it rests Once cool break into large clusters using your hands Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks
Save Pumpkin seeds are my absolute favorite for their creamy crunch and bright green color I remember making this with my daughter for her lunchbox and she proudly shared handfuls with her friends at school
Storage Tips
Let the clusters cool completely before packing them away This keeps moisture out Store in a glass jar or sealed tin for extra crunch They never seem to last long in my house but I have had them stay fresh for up to two weeks if kept fully sealed in a dark cool spot
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in sunflower seeds if you are out of pumpkin seeds Wildflower honey can take the place of maple syrup Dried figs or apricots chopped fine work instead of cranberries for a Mediterranean flair
Serving Suggestions
Pile a handful on Greek yogurt with fresh fruit Sprinkle over roasted sweet potatoes or salads for extra crunch Toss with dark chocolate chips once cool and serve as a dessert snack mix
Cultural Context
People have been making honey and seed clusters in different cultures for centuries This recipe follows the classic idea of simple wholesome ingredients baked into something memorable Each batch fills the air with spice and always calls everyone to the kitchen
Seasonal Adaptations
Change up the spices with nutmeg or cardamom during winter Add roasted pecans in late autumn Mix in dried cherries for a spring pick-me-up
Save Big crunchy clusters are all about pressing the mixture firmly onto the sheet pan Avoid overstirring during baking for chunkier pieces Always let cool completely on the tray for the best crisp texture
Recipe Help
- → What type of pumpkin seeds work best?
Raw or roasted hulled pumpkin seeds are ideal for maximum crunch and flavor.
- → Which spices complement the clusters?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom add warmth and aromatic depth to the granola clusters.
- → Can this be used in breakfast bowls?
Yes, clusters work well as a topping for yogurt, smoothie bowls, and oatmeal.
- → How do I get crunchy clusters?
Press the mixture tightly on the baking sheet and avoid stirring while baking for chunkier pieces.
- → Are these clusters gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free snack option.
- → What sweeteners pair best?
Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar provide natural sweetness to the clusters.