Sometimes you just need something quick, satisfying, and nourishing, whetherit’s a snack, a breakfast boost, or a way to curb those sweet and crunchy cravings. This pumpkin seed and cinnamon granola is just the thing. It’s cozy and delicious for fall yogurt bowls or simply enjoyed by the handful with a warm cup of tea. Plus, you can make it your own by adding your favorite extras like shredded coconut, dried fruit, poppy seeds, chia seeds, or anything else you love.
This granola isn’t just delicious, it’s brain-nourishing, too. The oats bring magnesium, a mineral that supports relaxation and healthy brain signaling. Pumpkin seeds add a boost of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant linked to protecting brain cells. And the extra virgin olive oil infuses polyphenols like oleocanthal, known for their anti-inflammatory effects that help keep the brain resilient. A crunchy snack with serious benefits.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the EVOO, maple syrup, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds and raisins. Mix until incorporated.
Pour the granola onto the baking sheet and spread into a 1/2 inch layer.
Bake the granola for 18 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. Set aside to fully cool. Break up granola slightly so that it is crumbly, with some larger pieces intact.
Store in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 10 days.
Recipe Note
Created by Laura Morris CPT and Jennifer Ventrelle RD
This recipe was created by Laura Morris, a multifaceted professional chef, certified nutrition consultant, and personal trainer, along with Jennifer Ventrelle, NeuroReserve medical advisor and a registered dietitian and Assistant Professor at Rush University. Jennifer is also the lead dietitian for major prevention studies like the U.S. POINTER Study on cognitive decline. Together they co-authored the published book ‘The Official MIND Diet’ – a comprehensive “instruction manual” on how to seamlessly integrate the MIND diet into our everyday lives. They have also created MIND Diet programs to help others make brain healthy living and eating a core piece of their routine, with step-by-step guidance. These delicious dishes and tools they created not only aid in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's but also support weight loss goals.
We at NeuroReserve are committed to equipping you with the diet and nutrition you need for lasting brain health. As you make progress with your diet, our product RELEVATE can help fill in the gaps where your diet falls short. RELEVATE is designed upon the framework of the evidence-backed Mediterranean and MIND diets, and includes 17 nutrients for long-term brain health. Click here to learn more about RELEVATE.
