Homemade Maple-Vanilla Pecan Granola

1. Flavor Mixture Preparation

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and table salt. Set this flavor mixture aside. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

2. Toasting Pecans

Warm the vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped pecans to the skillet, stirring them frequently. Cook until they emit a fragrant aroma and start to darken slightly, which should take about 4 minutes.

3. Oats Toasting

To the skillet with the pecans, stir in the rolled oats. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the oats turn golden and the pecans are well-toasted, approximately 6 minutes.

4. Final Cooking Step

Pour the prepared maple syrup mixture into the skillet with the pecans and oats. Stir the mixture frequently, cooking until it is fully absorbed and the granola has darkened a shade, around 3 minutes. Transfer the granola onto the lined baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer.

5. Cooling and Serving

Allow the granola to cool for 20 minutes. Once cooled, break it into bite-sized chunks. The granola is now ready to be enjoyed as a deliciously crunchy topping or a snack on its own.