Easy Peanut Butter Granola

Share the flavor, share the love.

Granola is a classic breakfast staple that never seems to go out of style. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and oh-so-versatile. This Easy Peanut Butter Granola recipe combines the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter with wholesome oats, making it a breakfast option that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or straight out of the jar, this granola is destined to become your new favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about homemade granola. Not only can you control the ingredients, ensuring they’re all natural and wholesome, but you also get to customize the flavors to suit your preferences. This Easy Peanut Butter Granola recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, so you can have a delicious breakfast ready to go all week long.

Ingredients

To make this delightful peanut butter granola, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• ½ cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, your choice!)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes

Each ingredient serves a purpose in creating a deliciously crunchy and flavorful granola. The oats provide the base, while the peanut butter adds richness and protein. The maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener, and the cinnamon brings warmth and complexity.

How To Make Easy Peanut Butter Granola

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your granola will bake evenly and get wonderfully crispy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and sea salt flakes. Stir them together until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until the peanut butter is soft and easy to stir. Mix the two ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture. Stir well until all the oats are coated. You want every single oat to bask in the peanut buttery goodness!

Step 6: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, pressing it down lightly. This helps it clump together as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be golden brown but not burnt!

Step 8: Let it Cool

Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to harden as it cools.

Step 9: Store and Enjoy

Once cooled, break it into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Your Easy Peanut Butter Granola is ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips

To make the most of your granola-making experience, consider these tips:

• If you want clumpier granola, press the mixture down firmly on the baking sheet before baking.
• Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit after baking.
• For added flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture.
• Keep an eye on the granola as it bakes, as different ovens may have slight variations in temperature.

Variations and Customizations

This Easy Peanut Butter Granola is highly customizable! Here are some ideas to mix it up:

• Add chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a sweet twist.
• Experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew butter.
• Include coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
• Incorporate seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition.

Remember, the possibilities are endless, and you can make this granola your own!

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about two weeks, although we doubt it will last that long because it’s just too delicious! If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing.

FAQ

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Absolutely! You can substitute honey, agave syrup, or any liquid sweetener of your choice. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may alter the flavor a little.

Is this granola gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this granola can be made gluten-free. Always check the packaging to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

Can I make this granola nut-free?

Yes! You can replace the peanut butter with sun butter or oat butter to make it nut-free. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly.

How can I make this granola more nutritious?

You can boost the nutrition by adding seeds (like chia or pumpkin seeds), dried fruits, or even protein powder to the mix before baking. Just adjust the quantities as necessary to maintain the right consistency.

Conclusion

Making your own granola has never been easier or more delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this Easy Peanut Butter Granola that will elevate your breakfast game. It’s not only a fantastic way to start your day, but it also makes for a great snack or topping. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy the crunchy, peanut buttery goodness, and share your own variations and customizing ideas with us. Happy granola making!

Share the flavor, share the love.