Eleven Madison Park Granola

Updated Jan. 19, 2024

Prep & Baking Times

• Total Time: 40 minutes (includes prep and baking)

• Baking Time: 35 to 40 minutes

• Servings: ~6 cups

Ingredients

• 2¾ cups rolled oats

• 1 cup shelled pistachios (roughly chopped or left whole for texture)

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut chips

• ⅓ cup pumpkin seeds

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (adjust for salt preference, see reviews)

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• ⅓ cup maple syrup

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¾ cup dried sour cherries

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preheat & Dry Ingredient Mix

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine rolled oats, pistachios, coconut chips, pumpkin seeds, and kosher salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Pro Tip: Let the dry mixture rest for 30 minutes (per user feedback) to allow oats to absorb liquid before adding wet ingredients for optimal texture.

Step 2: Prepare Syrup Base

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, and olive oil. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until sugar dissolves completely (3–5 minutes). Critical: Do not boil or caramelize; remove from heat once sugar is dissolved and cool slightly to avoid scorching dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Pour the cooled syrup over the dry mixture. Gently fold until every oat and nut is coated evenly. Ensures uniform baking and flavor development.

Step 4: Spread & Bake

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment/silicone mat. Transfer the mixture to the sheet, spreading into a thin, even layer (½-inch thick).

• Bake at 300°F: 35–40 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes (prevents hot spots).

• Pro Alternative (for deeper caramelization): Bake at 225°F (107°C) for 2–3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes (recommended by former staff).

The granola is ready when lightly golden and crisp (squeeze a handful—should hold shape but crumble easily).

Step 5: Cool & Finish

Remove from oven and fold in dried sour cherries while warm. Cool 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and texture to crispify. Transfer to an airtight container.

Community Reviews & Pro Tips

Salt Adjustment

• User Feedback: "1 tbsp kosher salt is equivalent to ~1 tsp table salt (e.g., Diamond Crystal). Reduce to 1–2 tsp table salt if sensitive."

• Expert Fix: "Use coarse sea salt for a subtler profile; avoid Morton’s if saltiness is overpowering (DC Kosher is preferred)."

Baking Optimization

• Time & Temp: Extend to 2–3 hours at 225°F (longer baking = deeper caramelization; avoid exceeding 45 minutes at 300°F to prevent sugar burn).

• Pre-Rest: Let wet ingredients absorb 30 minutes before baking to soften oats, enhancing chewiness.

Texture & Customization

• Add-Ons: 2 tbsp chia seeds, sliced almonds, or dried cranberries work well.

• Storage: Keeps fresh 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.

"Best granola ever! Adjust salt per brand, and you’ll never make another recipe again." — Repeat user.