Imagine a breakfast so irresistible that it transforms your morning routine from mundane to extraordinary. This isn't just granola – it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich, nutty essence of browned butter, the bold kick of espresso, and the satisfying crunch of perfectly roasted pumpkin seeds. Whether you're a breakfast enthusiast, a coffee lover, or someone who craves something beyond the ordinary, this granola recipe will revolutionize your morning palette and leave you craving more with every single cluster.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup butter, browned
- 1/2 cup espresso, brewed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the granola from sticking.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brewed espresso, honey, vanilla extract, and the browned butter. Make sure to incorporate all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until all the oats and seeds are thoroughly coated with the espresso glaze.
- Transfer the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing it down gently to form big clusters.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; the granola should be golden brown and fragrant.
- Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This will help the clusters to firm up.
- If desired, once cooled, stir in the dried fruit for added sweetness and texture.
- Once cooled, break the granola into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Enjoy it as a snack, with yogurt, or as a topping for your favorite breakfast!
Tips
- Brown Butter Magic: Take your time when browning butter. The golden-brown color and nutty aroma are crucial for developing deep, complex flavors.
- Cluster Control: Press the granola mixture firmly on the baking sheet to create those coveted big clusters. The more you press, the better they'll hold together.
- Watch Carefully: Granola can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking and stir halfway through.
- Cooling is Key: Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows it to crisp up and form those delightful clusters you're aiming for.
- Customization Options: Feel free to swap dried fruits or add nuts to make this recipe uniquely yours. Experiment with different mix-ins to keep things interesting!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
