Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola.
If you’re searching for a granola recipe that perfectly blends nutty flavors, chewy textures, and a hint of sweetness, look no further than this Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola. Inspired by the rich, toasty notes of browned butter, this recipe transforms the classic cookie into a crunchy, satisfying breakfast or snack option. You’ll find joy in every bite as the flavors meld together, making it a delightful addition to yogurt, smoothies, or simply enjoyed by the handful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola is not just any granola; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The nutty pistachios paired with the rich, caramel-like essence of brown butter create a warm and inviting profile. The addition of tart cherries provides a lovely contrast, while the coconut flakes and pepitas add a delightful crunch. This granola is versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, as a topping for desserts, or even as a stand-alone snack. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking!
Ingredient Notes
- Brown Butter: The star of the show! Browning the butter adds depth and a nutty flavor that elevates this granola.
- Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; they provide the perfect base.
- Pistachios: Coarsely chopped for that satisfying crunch and a beautiful pop of green color.
- Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Adds chewiness and a subtle sweetness. Opt for large flakes for more texture.
- Dried Tart Cherries: These bring a burst of sweetness and a hint of tartness that perfectly balances the flavors.
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): For added crunch and nutrition, these seeds are a great addition.
- Ground Flaxseed: A source of omega-3 fatty acids, this ingredient helps bind the granola together.
- Kosher Salt: A touch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: For sweetness and depth of flavor; feel free to use coconut sugar as a substitute.
- Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps the granola clump together.
- Olive Oil: A healthier fat option that helps achieve the perfect texture in your granola.
- Chocolate Chips (optional): For those who want an extra indulgent touch, add dark chocolate chips after baking.
Recommended Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl: To combine all your dry ingredients before mixing them with the wet ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for spreading out the granola evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Spatula: For mixing and spreading the granola on the baking sheet.
- Oven Mitts: Always essential for safely handling hot baking sheets.
Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola. Made Stepwise
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by browning your butter. Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and begins to foam. Continue cooking until it turns a golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Be mindful not to burn it! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, coarsely chopped pistachios, unsweetened coconut flakes, dried tart cherries, pepitas, ground flaxseed, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Mix well to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth. This mixture will help bind the granola together and add that delicious brown butter flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold everything together until all the dry ingredients are well-coated and evenly moistened.
Step 5: Bake the Granola
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the granola mixture evenly across the sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. The granola should be golden and fragrant when done.
Step 6: Cool and Add Chocolate Chips
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is crucial as it allows the granola to clump together. Once cooled, if desired, stir in the chocolate chips.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or simply by the handful!
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
- Nuts: If you have nut allergies, substitute pistachios with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Sweeteners: Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Coconut: If you’re avoiding coconut, you can use additional oats or even quinoa flakes.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
- Be sure to keep an eye on the granola as it bakes; ovens can vary, and you want to avoid burning.
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
- Feel free to customize the dried fruits; cranberries or raisins can be great alternatives to tart cherries.
- The granola can be enjoyed immediately after cooling, but it’s even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
How to Store & Reheat
Store your Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you prefer your granola warm, simply reheat it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Reader Q&A
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts would work beautifully in this granola. Just be sure to chop them coarsely for the best texture.
How can I make this granola vegan?
To make this granola vegan, simply replace the brown butter with a plant-based butter substitute and use agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
Can I freeze this granola?
Yes! You can freeze the granola in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Is it possible to make this granola without added sugar?
You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup, but keep in mind that sugar helps with clumping and flavor. Consider using mashed bananas or applesauce for natural sweetness instead.
Similar Recipes
Let’s Eat
This Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola is not just a breakfast option; it’s a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you’re topping your morning smoothie bowl or snacking on it straight from the jar, each bite brings the comforting taste of cookies with the wholesome goodness of granola. Perfect for meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a batch of this delicious granola that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Brown Butter Pistachio Cookie Granola.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Brown the Butter - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until golden brown and nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, pistachios, coconut flakes, cherries, pepitas, flaxseed, salt, and brown sugar. Mix well.
- Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients - In a separate bowl, whisk cooled brown butter, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients and fold together until evenly moistened.
- Step 5: Bake the Granola - Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheet with parchment and spread granola evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Step 6: Cool and Add Chocolate Chips - Let granola cool completely on the baking sheet before stirring in chocolate chips if desired.
- Step 7: Store and Enjoy - Transfer to an airtight container and enjoy with yogurt, milk, or by the handful!
Notes
- Keep an eye on the granola while baking to avoid burning.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Customize with different dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
- Let flavors meld for a day or two for even better taste.
