If you are craving a wholesome, crunchy breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing, then the Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe is your new best friend. These delightful little cups pack all the goodness of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit into a convenient, handheld treat that’s perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or even an energizing snack. The balance of sweet honey and nut butter binds everything together, creating a golden, crispy texture that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe are surprisingly straightforward yet incredibly important. Each element brings a unique flavor, texture, or nutritional benefit that makes the final product so irresistible and balanced.
- 2 cups rolled oats: The base of your granola cups, providing heartiness and a lovely chew.
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener and sticky binder to hold everything together.
- 1/2 cup nut butter (almond or peanut): Adds creaminess and a rich, nutty depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts): Introduces crunch and a boost of healthy fats and protein.
- 1/4 cup seeds (chia or flaxseed): These little powerhouses deliver fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries): A chewy burst of natural sweetness and color.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Warms the flavor and adds a comforting spice note.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
How to Make Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is the perfect temperature to toast the oats and nuts to a golden crisp without burning. This foundational step ensures your granola cups develop that irresistible crunch.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt. This blend incorporates the texture and flavors that form the heart of your granola cups. Take a moment to notice the aroma that cinnamon brings—it’s a hint of the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the honey or maple syrup with the nut butter until you have a smooth, harmonious mixture. This sticky duo acts as the glue, ensuring every oat and nut piece clings together during baking. Pour this over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly so every bite is perfectly coated.
Step 4: Shape the Cups
Grease your muffin tin lightly to prevent sticking, then press about two generous tablespoons of the granola mixture into each cup. Don’t be afraid to pack them tightly! This step shapes your granola into neat, sturdy cups that hold their form and are easy to grab.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tray in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll want to watch for a golden-brown hue and a toasty fragrance filling your kitchen—signaling they are ready. Once baked, allow the cups to cool completely in the tin before removing. This cooling time is essential for them to firm up and maintain their shape.
How to Serve Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe, consider topping them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of fresh honey. Fresh berries or slices of banana add vibrant color and a juicy contrast to the crunchy texture. Sprinkling a few extra seeds or chopped nuts on top can also enhance the look and add dimension.
Side Dishes
Pair these granola cups with a glass of chilled almond milk or your favorite smoothie for a full, satisfying breakfast. A side of fresh fruit salad or a small portion of cottage cheese can complement the flavors beautifully while providing extra nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the muffin tin! Serve your granola cups in a breakfast bowl surrounded by a mix of fresh fruits. You could even add a crispy scoop atop a creamy acai bowl for a fun twist. For brunch parties, arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside mini jars of nut butter and jam, creating a charming self-serve station.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep when you want quick, grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to make a larger batch, these granola cups freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually or layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and store for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To revive the crunch, warm the granola cups in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them a bit soft and chewy instead of crisp and crumbly.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts or seeds in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or seeds like pecans, pistachios, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Each swap will bring its unique flavor and texture to your granola cups.
Is the honey necessary, or can I use only maple syrup?
You can use maple syrup as a one-to-one replacement for honey if you prefer a vegan option or enjoy its flavor. It will work just as well to bind the ingredients and add sweetness.
How do I make these granola cups vegan?
Simply use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a plant-based nut butter. This keeps the recipe entirely plant-based while maintaining all the deliciousness.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Yes, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even small pieces of dried apricot make great additions. Add them just before baking or sprinkle on top after baking for best results.
Are these granola cups suitable for kids?
Definitely! The crunchy texture and natural sweetness make them kid-friendly, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to include nuts, seeds, or fruits that your children love.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about making and enjoying your own Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these cups serve up a lovely balance of crunch, sweetness, and wholesome ingredients that start your day off on the right foot. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it becomes a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation!
Print
Breakfast Granola Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 granola cups (approximately 12 servings)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Breakfast Granola Cups are a wholesome and delicious way to start your day. Made with rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, they are baked into convenient individual cups perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks. Packed with fiber and protein, they combine crunch and sweetness in every bite, with optional additions of dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (almond or peanut)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup seeds (chia or flaxseed)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking your granola cups.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the honey or maple syrup with the nut butter until smooth and well blended. This sticky mixture will help bind the granola together.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the honey and nut butter mixture over the oat mixture, stirring thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are coated evenly.
- Prepare muffin tin: Grease a muffin tin lightly to prevent sticking and press approximately two tablespoons of the granola mixture into each cup, forming a compact cup shape.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the granola cups turn golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and remove: Allow the granola cups to cool completely in the muffin tin before gently removing them to maintain their shape.
- Serve: Enjoy these granola cups as a grab-and-go breakfast or snack, optionally topped with yogurt or fresh fruit.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter depending on taste preference or allergies.
- Maple syrup is a vegan alternative to honey.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the muffin tin helps the cups hold their shape after baking.
- Allowing granola cups to cool fully results in better structural integrity.
- Store granola cups in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to enhance flavor, if desired.
