Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of granola. The crunch, the flavor, and the versatility make it a staple in any kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola that is not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you enjoy it with yogurt, as a topping for smoothie bowls, or simply snacked on its own, this granola is bound to become a favorite in your home.
Reasons to Love Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola
This Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola is packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy and satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this granola comes together quickly.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Nutritious: The oats and peanut butter offer a great source of fiber and protein, perfect for keeping you full.
- Deliciously Crunchy: The baking process gives the granola its delightful crunch, making it utterly addictive.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at once and enjoy it throughout the week.
Gather These Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 ½ cups rolled oats (regular or gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free all-purpose as a substitute)
- â…“ cup pure maple syrup
- â…” cup drippy peanut butter
- ¼ cup oil (coconut or canola for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Setup & Equipment
To make your granola-making experience seamless, gather the following equipment:
- Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet will ensure even baking.
- Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for mixing your ingredients.
- Spatula: A spatula will help you mix and spread the granola evenly.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to ensure your granola bakes properly.
Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your granola bakes evenly, resulting in a perfect crunchy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the granola from sticking and make it easier to remove once baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 ½ cups of rolled oats and 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir until well mixed. If you’re using gluten-free flour, ensure it’s well incorporated with the oats.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the ⅓ cup of pure maple syrup, ⅔ cup of drippy peanut butter, ¼ cup of oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until all of the oats are coated with the peanut butter mixture. The oats should feel sticky but not overly wet.
Step 6: Spread on Baking Sheet
Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, pressing it down slightly to encourage clumping.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning; you want it golden brown and crunchy.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. Once cooled, break it into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Tailor It to Your Diet
One of the best parts about making your own granola is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ideas to tailor this Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola to your preferences:
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Consider adding almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Incorporate Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots can add a sweet and chewy contrast to the crunchy granola.
- Try Different Nut Butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter to change up the flavor.
- Sweeten to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter granola, add a bit more maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking.
Learn from These Mistakes
While making Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your granola as it bakes. It can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
- Not Letting It Cool: Cooling allows the granola to harden and become crunchy. Resist the urge to touch it until it’s completely cool.
- Skipping the Flour: The flour helps bind the oats together, giving your granola those delightful clusters. Don’t skip it!
- Not Stirring Midway: Stirring halfway through baking promotes even browning and prevents burning.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
One of the best things about Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola is how well it stores. Here are some tips:
This granola can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider keeping it in the fridge or freezer, where it can last for up to a month. Use small glass jars or reusable bags for portioning out snacks for on-the-go munching!
- Use it as a Topping: Sprinkle it over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor.
- Mix into Baked Goods: Incorporate it into muffin or cookie recipes for an extra crunch.
- Snack on It: Enjoy it as a nutritious snack straight from the jar!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this granola nut-free?
Yes! You can substitute the peanut butter with sun butter or another nut-free butter to make it nut-free.
How do I make this granola vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as long as you use maple syrup and not honey. All ingredients are plant-based!
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, they will yield a different texture. Rolled oats give the best crunch and clusters.
Can I add chocolate chips to this granola?
Absolutely! For a sweeter treat, mix in chocolate chips after the granola has cooled completely.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to embrace your inner chef and whip up a batch of Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola. This delightful recipe will not only fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma but also provide you with a delicious and nutritious snack. Enjoy every crunchy bite and feel free to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!
Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and flour, stirring until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup, peanut butter, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until the oats are coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing down slightly to encourage clumping.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown and crunchy.
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking into clusters and storing.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Mix in chocolate chips after cooling for a sweeter treat.
