Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked granola wafting through your home. This Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola recipe is not just a delightful treat for your taste buds, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a topping for your favorite desserts. Say goodbye to store-bought granola packed with sugar and preservatives; this homemade version is both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Once you try this Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola, you will want to make it over and over again. Here’s why:

– **Healthier Option**: Control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives.
– **Customizable**: Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to make it uniquely yours.
– **Budget-Friendly**: Making granola at home is much cheaper than buying it pre-packaged.
– **Quick & Easy**: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can have granola ready in no time.
– **Delicious**: The combination of peanut butter and maple syrup creates a flavor that is hard to resist.

What Goes In

To make your own Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups rolled oats (regular or gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons flour (you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute)
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 2/3 cup drippy peanut butter (choose a natural variety for the best flavor)
• 1/4 cup oil (coconut or canola oil work best for flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start baking, gather these tools and equipment:

• Baking Sheet – A large baking sheet for spreading out the granola.
• Mixing Bowl – To combine all the ingredients.
• Spatula – For mixing and spreading the granola on the baking sheet.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To accurately measure your ingredients.
• Oven – Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking the granola.

Method: Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola

Follow these simple steps to create your Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the granola bakes evenly and becomes perfectly crunchy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and flour. Stir them together until well mixed. This will be the foundation of your granola, providing fiber and texture.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the pure maple syrup, drippy peanut butter, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. The peanut butter should be creamy to ensure it blends well with the oats.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry oat mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together until the oats are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that crunchy texture.

Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, pressing it down gently with the spatula. This helps the granola clump together while baking, resulting in those lovely crunchy clusters.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as granola can go from golden to overly toasted quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once the granola is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will harden further. Once cool, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

Make your Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola festive with these fun additions:

• Fall Flavors: Add pumpkin spice or cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Winter Treats: Mix in some dried cranberries or chopped dark chocolate for a holiday twist.
• Summer Vibes: Toss in some coconut flakes and tropical dried fruits like mango or pineapple.
• Spring Freshness: Incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Author’s Commentary

This Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola is one of my go-to recipes for busy mornings and snack attacks. I love how versatile it is; you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and maple syrup creates a sweet and nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible! Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it), this granola can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. It also makes for a fantastic meal prep option! Make a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have a healthy snack or breakfast ready to go throughout the week. Simply add it to yogurt, smoothies, or enjoy it with milk for a quick breakfast.

Common Qs About Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola

Can I use another nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can all work well in this recipe. Just ensure you choose a drippy variety for the best results.

How can I make this granola sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter granola, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or add a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking. However, be careful not to add too much, or it might burn during the baking process.

Can I add nuts or seeds to the granola?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed since different ingredients may affect how quickly the granola cooks.

Is it possible to make this granola in a dehydrator?

Yes, you can absolutely dehydrate granola! Spread the mixture onto dehydrator trays and set it to a low temperature (around 115°F or 46°C) for several hours until it’s dry and crunchy. It’s a great option for preserving the nutrients in your ingredients.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the details and tips for creating your own Simple Crunchy Peanut Butter Granola, there’s no excuse not to whip up a batch tonight! It’s a straightforward recipe that will fill your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. Once you taste the first crunchy bite, you’ll know you’ve made a treat that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to embrace the joy of homemade granola!