Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola

The cozy scents of maple and warm cinnamon fill the kitchen as this Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola recipe bakes into golden clusters that cool on the counter.

Each bite brings a gentle tang from the sourdough, the crunch of toasted oats and pecans, and just enough sweetness to feel like a treat.

Enjoy it as a comforting cereal with warm or cold milk, a nourishing snack throughout the day, or spooned over creamy yogurt for an easy cottage-style breakfast — simple, cozy, and delicious.

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A pan of coked granola homemade in a cottage kitchen on a silver baking pan.

I love having a large jar of Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola sitting on the counter, ready for quick breakfasts or an easy snack options. I love making different flavors too!

You can easily make this warm spiced granola from your sourdough starter, your own, with a few seasonal touches. Add a spoonful of Homemade Apple Pie Spice Recipe or Pumpkin Pie Spice | Easy Homemade Recipe, or stir in Creamy Homemade Pumpkin Puree for a cozy autumn twist. It’s also wonderful layered over Homemade Yogurt Step-By-Step Recipe with a swirl of Homemade Cottage-Style Peach Preserves (no pectin) or Homemade Cherry Jam Low Sugar with Pomona Pectin for something simple and cozy.

If you love sourdough snacks, this Easy Homemade Sourdough Animal Crackers | Freshly Milled Flour is a wonderful recipe to have on hand. They’re crisp, lightly sweet, and full of that nostalgic vanilla-lemon flavor that reminds me of the old Barnum & Bailey crackers from childhood.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Warm flavor: Maple syrup and cinnamon give this granola a cozy, spiced sweetness perfect for any season.
  • Perfect crunch: Slow baking creates crisp, golden clusters that hold together beautifully.
  • Sourdough twist: Using discard or starter adds light tang and depth without extra work.
    Make-ahead friendly: Stays fresh for weeks, making it easy to keep a wholesome snack on hand.

A new favorite in our kitchen—thank you for this beautiful recipe! I added shredded coconut and dried strawberries. Will be making it weekly. ~Kate

Ingredients for making sourdough granola in measuring cups, bowls, on a wooden counter top in a kitchen.

Ingredients

  • Rolled Oats: The hearty base that gives this granola its classic crunch and satisfying texture.
  • Sourdough Discard: Adds a light tang and helps bind the mixture for those golden, crunchy clusters.
  • Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens and caramelizes the granola as it bakes for rich maple flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans: Bring nutty depth and a buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with warm spices.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps the oats toast evenly and adds a subtle, smooth richness to every bite.
  • A full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
A pan of coked granola homemade in a cottage kitchen on a silver baking pan.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh discard: Make sure your sourdough discard smells pleasant and slightly tangy, not overly sour. Fresh discard adds subtle flavor without overpowering the granola’s sweetness.

Mix thoroughly: Take time to coat all oats, nuts, and seeds evenly in the wet mixture. This ensures every bite bakes to the same crisp, golden texture.

Bake low and slow: Keep your oven temperature steady at 325°F to prevent burning the nuts or over-browning the oats. A slower bake helps form those signature crunchy clusters.

Check oven temperature: Bake on the middle rack and use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy. Most ovens run hotter or cooler than the dial, so adjust by about 25°F if needed for even baking.

Rotate the pan: Turn the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even toasting from edge to center. It helps prevent hot spots and gives a uniform golden color.

Cool completely: Let the granola cool fully on the baking sheet before stirring or storing. This helps it crisp up properly and form nice clusters instead of breaking apart.

Store it right: Once cooled, keep your granola in an airtight glass jar at room temperature. Proper storage preserves its crunch and flavor for several weeks.

A women is pouring a uncooked granola mixture onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper in a cottage kitchen.

How To Make Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly oil it if you prefer easy cleanup.

A large mixing bowl of coconut oil, maple syrup, and sourdough discard.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, sourdough discard or starter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.

A large ceramic mixing bowl on a wooden counter top in a cottage kitchen has nuts and seeds in a sourdough mixture.

Step 3: Add the rolled oats, chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

* Wait to add the dried fruit until after the granola has cooked and cooled. We have found this results in the best outcome.

A women is pouring a uncooked granola mixture onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper in a cottage kitchen.

Step 4: Spread the granola mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet, pressing lightly to help form clusters.

A ceramic pan of homemade sourdough granola on a wooden counter top in a cottage kitchen.

Step 5: Bake on the middle rack for 25–30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking, until the granola is lightly golden and fragrant.

A cooked pan of sourdough discard granola coming fresh out of the oven in a cottage kitchen.

Step 6: Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring. This allows the clusters to crisp as they cool.

A bowl of yogurt and homemade granola in a cottage kitchen.

Step 7: Once cooled, stir in any dried fruit or chocolate chips if desired. Adding them after cooling keeps the fruit from burning and prevents the chocolate from melting. Store in an airtight glass jar at room temperature for up to two weeks.

A bowl of yogurt and homemade granola in a cottage kitchen.

Freezing & Storage

  • Room Temperature: Once the granola has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dry spot for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed well helps preserve its crunch and warm maple flavor.
  • Freezer Storage: For longer storage, divide the granola into portions and place in airtight freezer bags or containers. Press out any excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Frozen granola will keep well for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
  • How to Refresh: To bring back crispness after thawing, spread the granola on a baking sheet and warm it in a 300°F oven for about 5–10 minutes. Let it cool before sealing again for storage.

How To Gift Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola

  • Mason jars: Fill a glass jar with granola and tie a ribbon or twine around the lid. Add a handwritten tag with the flavor and date.
  • Cellophane bags: Spoon granola into clear food-safe bags and tie with seasonal ribbon for a rustic, cozy touch.
  • Gift baskets: Pair a jar of granola with homemade yogurt, peach preserves, or vanilla extract for a complete breakfast-inspired gift.
  • Add a personal note: Tuck in a handwritten card or printed recipe so they can make their own batch later.

FAQ

Yes, an active starter works fine in this recipe. It will still bake into crisp, golden clusters.

Rolled oats give the best crunchy texture. Quick oats will work, but the granola will be smaller and slightly softer.

It should look lightly golden and smell toasty. The granola will crisp as it cools, so don’t overbake it.

Yes, granola is perfect for make-ahead. Once cooled, store it in an airtight jar for up to two weeks or freeze for longer.

Dried fruit can overcook in the oven. For best results, stir it in after the granola has cooled completely.

Of course. Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.

Let it cool fully before sealing, and store in a dry, airtight container. Avoid storing it while it’s still warm, or it may soften.

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Another favorite from my kitchen to yours, where the seasons guide the table and every meal is an act of love — may this recipe become a favorite in your kitchen too.
With gratitude & love,
Emily

A pan of coked granola homemade in a cottage kitchen on a silver baking pan.
4.67 from 6 votes

Maple Cinnamon Sourdough Granola | A Cozy Cottage Recipe

Author: Emily Rider
This cozy, golden brown granola fills your kitchen witht he warm scent of maple and cinnamon. It's the perfect way to use up sourdough discard for a crcuncy, wholesome breakfast or snack.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Cooling Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack, Sourdough
Cuisine: American, Cottage Style
Servings: 5 cups
Calories: 291kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1  Wooden spoon
  • 1 Large baking sheet (15×21 inches) or two 9×13 inch sheets
  • 1 Parchment paper or oil for greasing

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Rolled Oats 200g
  • 1 cup Dried Fruit 160g
  • ¼ cup Maple Syrup or Honey 160g
  • 1 cup chopped Pecans 114g
  • ½ cup Sourdough Discard or Starter 100g
  • ½ cup Pumpkin Seeds 82g
  • ½ cup Sunflower Seeds 70g
  • 2 tbsp Coconut Oil melted (26g)
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract 8g
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon 4g
  • ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg 2g
  • ½ tsp Sea Salt 2g

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Set oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet (15×21 inches) or two 9×13 inch sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Melt: Warm the coconut oil in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until fully melted.
  3. Combine: In a large bowl, mix melted coconut oil with sourdough discard or starter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Mix: Add rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
  5. Spread: Evenly distribute the granola mixture on the prepared baking sheet. If not using parchment paper, lightly oil the pan.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. For even baking, gently flip the granola, but be careful as it can be messy.
  7. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the granola to cool completely on the sheet.
  8. Store: Once cooled Stir in dried fruit or chocolate chips if desired and store in an airtight glass jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. You can transfer to a ½ gallon or 1 gallon wide-mouth mason jar for storage.

Video

Notes

  • Use Quality Ingredients: To make delicious sourdough granola, be sure to use high-quality rolled oats, dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. Fresh and flavorful ingredients will enhance the overall taste of the granola.
  • Customize the Dried Fruits and Nuts: Feel free to personalize your granola by choosing your favorite dried fruits and nuts. Whether it’s cranberries, raisins, almonds, or walnuts, the options are endless, so get creative and tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the granola while it’s in the oven to prevent overbaking. It’s crucial to achieve a golden brown color and crisp texture without burning the granola.
  • Storage: Once the granola has cooled, store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Mason jars or sealable bags work well for storing granola, keeping it crunchy and flavorful for a longer period.
  • Enjoy with Your Favorite Pairings: Delicious Sourdough Granola pairs wonderfully with yogurt, milk, or fresh fruit. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match and enjoy this delightful treat at any time of day.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 520mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 17g

Did you make this recipe?

If you gave it a try and loved it, I’d be so grateful if you came back to leave a 5 “⭐️” rating. Use the buttons below to share, comment, or connect—I truly enjoy seeing and celebrating your beautiful bakes.

Close-up of a woman in a peach blouse smiling and leaning against a kitchen counter, with fresh flour and wheat berries visible beside her.

Emily Rider

Cottage lifestyle blogger and home miller with 25+ years of sourdough and fresh-milled flour experience.
Sharing cozy homemade recipes that help you bake with confidence, celebrate each season, and savor the beauty of everyday cottage living.

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4.67 from 6 votes (4 ratings without comment)

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6 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    A new favorite in our kitchen—thank you for this beautiful recipe! I added shredded coconut and dried strawberries. Will be making it weekly.

    1. Katie, your comment truly made my day—thank you!❤️ I love hearing how you made the granola your own. The addition of shredded coconut and dried strawberries sounds absolutely delightful—what a beautiful twist! I’ll definitely be trying that combo in my next batch. We always keep a jar in the pantry for snacking and topping yogurt—it’s such a versatile staple.

      If you’re open to it, I’d love to share your version in the recipe’s “Variations” section, with credit to you, of course. I treasure feedback like this—it helps me shape recipes that truly serve this cozy community. Thank you again for being here and baking along with me!😊

  2. 5 stars
    I LOVE THIS RECIPE!! It was a slam dunk in our home and didn’t last long!

    Question- If I wanted to make a chocolate version, do I just add cocoa powder pre bake and sub cinnamon for vanilla?

    1. Hi Lily! I’m so glad y’all loved the recipe—it makes my day!

      Yes, to make a chocolate version, you can add cocoa powder before baking and omit the cinnamon (keep the vanilla!). If you’d like to take it up a notch, feel free to fold in some mini or regular chocolate chips once it’s cooled—totally optional but so good!

      Let me know how it turns out if you try it!

  3. Hi ! I plan on making this today. I want to add raisins. Would I cook it with the raisins in it or add them after it’s done ? Thank you ! ☺️

    1. Hi Linda! We would recommend adding the raisins after it’s done cooking. This way, they’ll stay plump and sweet rather than getting too hard after the cooking process. Let me know how it turns out—enjoy! 🥰🍇