If you’re craving a delightful snack that perfectly balances crunch, sweetness, and that irresistible peanut butter goodness, this Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a crispy granola base infused with honey and maple syrup, holding the creamy richness of peanut butter and topped with decadent chocolate—a little bite of heaven that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. These cups are perfect for breakfast on the go, a post-workout pick-me-up, or an anytime indulgence that feels homemade and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Each one plays a pivotal role, whether it’s adding sweetness, binding the mix, or bringing that rich, nutty character that makes these granola cups genuinely addictive.
- 3 1/2 cups quick cooking oats: The crunchy, fiber-filled base that gives structure and heartiness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps bind the dry ingredients.
- 1/2 cup honey: Naturally sweetens and keeps the mixture slightly sticky for perfect shaping.
- 1/4 cup peanut butter: Brings creamy texture and that signature peanut taste to the granola itself.
- 1/4 cup honey: Boosts the gooey sweetness within the granola layer, ensuring everything sticks together beautifully.
- 1/3 cup maple syrup: Adds warmth and complexity, elevating the flavor profile.
- 1 cup peanut butter (melted): This is the luscious filling that makes each cup irresistibly creamy.
- 3 squares chocolate almond bark: For a glossy, rich topping that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: A little magic to smooth out the chocolate topping; add a few drops more if necessary for perfect texture.
How to Make Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Granola Base
Start by combining the quick cooking oats and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the first 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 cup peanut butter, mixing them thoroughly to get an evenly sticky, oat-loaded blend. This mixture will be the crispy, chewy foundation your cups are built on, so make sure every oat is well coated and ready to bake.
Step 2: Add Sweeteners and Bind
Next, drizzle in the remaining 1/4 cup of honey and the 1/3 cup of maple syrup. Stir gently but completely to integrate the syrupy sweetness with the oats, enhancing flavor while helping the mixture to hold together when pressed into your muffin tin.
Step 3: Bake Your Granola Cups
Press the granola mix firmly into a greased muffin tin, shaping the base and sides of each cup. Bake at 325°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until golden and fragrant. The baking step intensifies the oats’ crunch and gives the cups their hold and shape once cooled.
Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter Chocolate Topping
While the granola cups cool, melt the 3 squares of chocolate almond bark with the 1 cup of melted peanut butter and 1/4 cup heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until silky smooth. Spoon the mixture on top of each cooled granola cup, smoothing it evenly for a glossy, rich finish. Pop them back into the fridge until the chocolate sets firm.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Personally, I love a sprinkle of toasted chopped peanuts or a dash of flaky sea salt on top after the chocolate sets. It adds those complementary crunchy and savory notes that dance beautifully with the sweet, nutty flavors in the cups.
Side Dishes
Pair these Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe treats with a chilled glass of almond milk or your favorite fruit smoothie. Fresh berries or sliced banana on the side also make for a refreshingly bright contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving them in mini cupcake liners or on a rustic wooden board with small jars of peanut butter and honey for a fun, interactive snack platter. They also make adorable edible cups filled with fresh yogurt and berries for breakfast charm at a brunch gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness and to keep the chocolate perfectly set, refrigeration is your best friend, lasting around a week.
Freezing
These cups freeze wonderfully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep up to 2 months frozen, making for an easy grab-and-go snack anytime you have a peanut butter craving.
Reheating
Since these cups are best enjoyed with their crunchy texture and chocolate topping intact, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a softer bite, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave works perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to both the base and filling, making each bite even more exciting with little peanut pieces hidden inside.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep your Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
You can swap maple syrup with agave nectar or even extra honey if you prefer, but keep in mind that each sweetener will slightly change the flavor depth of the granola base.
How long does it take for the chocolate topping to set?
When chilled in the fridge, the chocolate topping should firm up fully in about 30 to 45 minutes, giving you that perfect glossy finish with no melting mess.
Are these cups suitable for kids’ lunchboxes?
Definitely! They’re a wholesome, tasty snack packed with protein and fiber, perfect for keeping little ones energized during their busy school days.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe enough if you love simple yet scrumptious snacks that satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt. Making them is such a joy, and the best part is sharing these crunchy, creamy delights with friends and family. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and give these granola cups a try—you might just find your new go-to snack for every occasion!
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Peanut Butter Granola Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 12 granola cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peanut Butter Granola Cup recipe combines crunchy oats, sweet honey, and creamy peanut butter into a delightful homemade granola base, topped with a rich chocolate almond bark ganache. Perfect for a wholesome snack or a sweet treat, these granola cups hold together neatly and offer a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Granola Cups
- 3 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
Chocolate Topping
- 3 squares chocolate almond bark
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (plus a few drops more if needed)
- 1 cup peanut butter (melted)
Instructions
- Prepare the granola mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of quick cooking oats, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup peanut butter, and 1/3 cup maple syrup. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to form a sticky granola base that will hold its shape.
- Form the granola cups: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. Press the granola mixture firmly and evenly into each muffin cup, shaping it into cup-like forms. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the cups are golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before removing from the pan.
- Prepare the chocolate peanut butter topping: In a small saucepan, gently warm 1 cup of melted peanut butter and 3 squares of chocolate almond bark together on low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream, adding a few extra drops if the mixture seems too thick, to create a luscious ganache consistency.
- Assemble the granola cups: Spoon the chocolate peanut butter ganache into the cooled granola cups, spreading evenly to cover the surface. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature or place in the refrigerator for faster setting. Once set, serve and enjoy your delicious peanut butter granola cups.
Notes
- Make sure to press the granola mixture firmly into the muffin tin to help the cups hold their shape after baking.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can add a bit of powdered sugar to the ganache mixture.
- Store the granola cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use nut-free chocolate.
