Ultimate Pumpkin Seed Granola Clusters Recipe Perfect for Fall

Written by

David

Posted on November 9, 2025

pumpkin seed granola clusters - featured image

Baked Goods

November 9, 2025

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Introduction

Imagine the warm, nutty aroma of toasted pumpkin seeds wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet hints of maple syrup and cinnamon. That’s exactly what you’ll get when you make these Ultimate Pumpkin Seed Granola Clusters. I came up with this recipe one chilly autumn morning when I was craving something crunchy, wholesome, and irresistibly sweet—but I didn’t want the sugar overload of store-bought granola. The result? A fall-inspired treat that has quickly become a household favorite.

These pumpkin seed granola clusters are perfect for snacking, topping your morning yogurt, or even gifting to friends and family. They’re crunchy, slightly sweet, and packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied all day long. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy breakfast or need a quick snack to fuel your day, this recipe will become a must-have in your kitchen.

Plus, guess what? It’s insanely easy to make. If you’re like me and love recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal fuss, this one’s going to be your new go-to. Grab your apron and let’s dive into the fall flavors of pumpkin seed granola clusters together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Crunch: These granola clusters are the ultimate combination of crispy and chewy—every bite is pure satisfaction.
Simple Ingredients: No need to make a special trip to the store; chances are, you’ve got most of these ingredients already.
Fall-Inspired Flavors: With earthy pumpkin seeds, sweet maple syrup, and warm spices, this recipe embodies everything we love about autumn.
Customizable: Whether you love dried cranberries, almonds, or coconut flakes, you can make this recipe your own.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and good fats, these clusters make the perfect guilt-free snack.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the sweet crunch of these granola clusters—trust me, I’ve tested it out!
Great for Gifting: Make a batch, pack it in a cute jar, and you’ve got an amazing homemade gift for the holidays.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. Unlike store-bought granola, you get to control the sweetness, texture, and flavor combinations. Plus, the pumpkin seeds add such a unique nuttiness—it’s a little unexpected, but so delicious. It’s an easy way to bring a little homemade love to your breakfast bowl or snack routine.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Old-fashioned rolled oats: The base of any great granola recipe. Make sure to use the traditional kind, not quick oats.
Raw pumpkin seeds: These add crunch and a nutty flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Maple syrup: Sweet and natural, it’s the key to giving these clusters their irresistible taste.
Coconut oil: This helps crisp up the granola and adds a subtle, tropical flavor.
Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Ground cinnamon: A classic autumn spice that ties everything together.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a warm, comforting note.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
Dried cranberries: Optional, but they add a chewy texture and a pop of tartness.
Chopped almonds: Another optional add-in for more crunch and flavor.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. This recipe is all about making it your own!

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
Baking sheet: A rimmed sheet works best to keep everything contained.
Parchment paper: Keeps the granola from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup a breeze.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing and spreading the granola evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters when it comes to the perfect cluster ratio!

No fancy equipment needed here—just your everyday kitchen essentials. If you don’t have parchment paper, silicone baking mats work great as well.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (270g) old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup (140g) raw pumpkin seeds, and any other add-ins you’re using, like 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds or 1/2 cup (70g) dried cranberries.
In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil over low heat. Stir in 1/3 cup (80ml) maple syrup, 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, pressing it down firmly with the back of the spoon to create a single, even layer.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on it—granola can go from golden to burnt quickly!
Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet without disturbing it—this helps the clusters stick together.
Once cooled, break the granola into clusters of your desired size. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro tip: If you want extra-large clusters, press the mixture tightly before baking and handle it gently when breaking it apart.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t skip the cooling step: Letting the granola cool completely is key to achieving those perfect clusters.
Press firmly: Pressing the mixture tightly onto the baking sheet before baking ensures you get crunchy clusters instead of loose granola.
Watch the bake time: Granola can burn quickly if left unattended, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
Customize the sweetness: If you prefer less sugar, reduce the brown sugar slightly and add more dried fruits for natural sweetness.
Mix thoroughly: Ensuring every oat and seed is coated in the wet mixture prevents uneven baking.

With these tips, you’ll nail the recipe every single time. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!

Variations & Adaptations

Dietary adaptations: Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option or swap coconut oil for melted butter if you prefer.
Seasonal variations: Try adding pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon for an extra autumnal twist.
Flavor customization: Mix in dark chocolate chips after the granola has cooled for a touch of indulgence.
Nut-free option: Skip the almonds and add more seeds, like sunflower or chia seeds, for extra crunch without the nuts.
Personal touch: I once added a handful of crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet combo—it was a huge hit!

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly adaptable—you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These pumpkin seed granola clusters are best enjoyed at room temperature for maximum crunch. Serve them:

On top of yogurt with fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
As a quick grab-and-go snack for busy days.
With milk for a cereal-style treat.
Sprinkled over smoothie bowls for added texture.
Packaged in a jar with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

To store, keep the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to two months—just let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

If you love a deeper flavor, let the clusters sit overnight; the spices and sweetness intensify beautifully.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These pumpkin seed granola clusters aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Protein-packed: Thanks to the pumpkin seeds and oats, you’ll get a nice dose of plant-based protein.
Rich in fiber: Oats and seeds support digestion and keep you full for longer.
Healthy fats: Coconut oil and pumpkin seeds are great sources of healthy fats to fuel your day.
Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats for a celiac-safe treat.
Low-sugar: You control the sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought granola.

It’s the perfect way to indulge in a delicious snack while nourishing your body.

Conclusion

These Ultimate Pumpkin Seed Granola Clusters are everything you want in a homemade treat—crunchy, sweet, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re whipping them up for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, they’re guaranteed to impress.

I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can adapt it for the season, personalize the flavors, or just enjoy it as-is. Every bite reminds me of cozy autumn mornings and the joy of homemade comfort foods.

So grab your mixing bowl and give these clusters a try! If you do, I’d love to hear how you made them your own—leave a comment below or share your photos. Happy baking, friends!

Now go ahead and spread some fall cheer with these scrumptious granola clusters. You won’t regret it!

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used, but they may result in less crunchy clusters since they’re finer and cook faster.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Simply use agave syrup or another plant-based liquid sweetener instead of honey or regular maple syrup.

Can I substitute pumpkin seeds with other seeds or nuts?

Absolutely! Sunflower seeds, chopped pecans, or walnuts work beautifully as substitutes.

How long will these granola clusters stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for about two weeks at room temperature or up to two months in the freezer.

What’s the best way to get extra-large clusters?

Press the granola mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and avoid breaking it apart too much when cooled.

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