Gluten-free, Soy-free option
Up your granola game with this recipe. Making your own granola is not only easy, but it’s also much cheaper than buying it at the store. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the delightful smell of peanut butter and maple syrup. Want to take this recipe to the next level? Follow the flavor addition ideas and add ground cinnamon or chocolate chunks (or both!).
Peanut Butter Granola emerges as a symphony of nutty flavors and wholesome textures, inviting a world of delicious possibilities into your breakfast routine or snack time. This recipe takes the classic appeal of granola and elevates it with the irresistible allure of peanut butter, resulting in a treat that’s both comforting and nourishing.
The heart of this creation lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. The stage is set with gluten-free old-fashioned oats, providing a sturdy canvas for the flavorful journey ahead. The addition of dry-roasted peanuts introduces a satisfying crunch and a burst of nuttiness that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy indulgence of peanut butter.
The genius of Peanut Butter Granola lies in the ingenious use of powdered peanut butter. This ingredient not only infuses a concentrated peanut flavor but also contributes to the granola’s delightful clumping texture, making each bite a delightful experience. A touch of baking powder and a pinch of salt ensure the granola’s even browning and the perfect balance of flavors.
The magic happens in the melding of wet and dry elements. A luxurious blend of refined coconut oil, peanut butter, and pure maple syrup becomes the adhesive that binds the granola together. Microwaving this mixture transforms it into a velvety, fragrant concoction that’s nothing short of a peanut butter lover’s dream. The addition of vanilla extract lends a gentle undertone of sweetness and warmth.
The granola mix comes to life as it’s gently stirred into the wet mixture. For those seeking extra layers of flavor, cinnamon and chocolate chunks can be introduced, adding dimensions that range from cozy spice to decadent richness.
The baking process is designed to create the perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The granola bakes to a golden hue, the aroma of peanut butter and toasted oats filling the air. An unconventional cooling period within the oven allows the granola to set into irresistible clusters, ready to be broken into delectable chunks.
Peanut Butter Granola, whether enjoyed as clusters on its own, paired with your favorite yogurt, or sprinkled atop smoothie bowls, transforms snack time into a moment of nutty bliss. With every spoonful, the fusion of nutty notes and comforting sweetness embraces the palate, offering a delightful way to fuel your day with taste and wholesomeness.
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 15 minutes, plus 1 hour with oven off
YIELD: 5 heaping cups (550 g)
INGREDIENTS:
- 2⅓ cups (210 g) gluten-free old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup (73 g) dry-roasted peanuts, or peanuts of choice
- ⅓ cup (42 g) powdered peanut butter
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ¼ cup (54 g) refined coconut oil
- ⅓ cup (86 g) peanut butter (soy-free if needed)
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) pure maple syrup
- 2 tsp (10 ml) pure vanilla extract
OPTIONAL FLAVOR ADDITIONS
- Cinnamon: 1½ tsp (12 g) ground cinnamon
- Chocolate Chunks: ¾ cup (140 g) vegan chocolate chunks
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9 x 13–inch (23 x 33–cm) baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free oats, peanuts, powdered peanut butter, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
- In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the refined coconut oil, peanut butter, and pure maple syrup. Microwave the mixture in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
- Add the oat mixture to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined. If you’re adding chocolate chunks, fold them into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Lightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking, then press the mixture firmly into the dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the granola in the cooling oven for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Once cooled, break the granola into chunks.
- This homemade granola is now ready to enjoy as a wholesome snack or a versatile topping for yogurt, smoothie bowls, or desserts.
