If you’re on the lookout for a breakfast or snack that feels like a little celebration in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe. These crunchy, sweet, creamy cups are like having your granola, yogurt, and fresh fruit all wrapped up in a perfectly portable package. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you get irresistibly crisp granola shells baked to golden perfection, ready to be filled with luscious yogurt and topped with vibrant fruits and chia seeds. It’s quick, customizable, and a wholesome way to brighten your mornings or power your afternoons.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Granola Yogurt Cups lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the hearty oats that provide that signature crunch to the peanut butter that adds richness and binds everything together. The maple syrup introduces a natural sweetness while a hint of vanilla and cinnamon lifts the flavor to another level. Here’s everything you’ll gather to create this delightful treat:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats: The crunchy base of the granola, offering texture and wholesome fiber.
- ½ cup peanut butter (runny consistency): Adds creaminess and natural nutty flavor, helping to bind the granola cups.
- ⅓ cup maple syrup: Natural sweetener that caramelizes lightly during baking for great depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended): Brings warmth and aromatic sweetness to the mixture.
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional but recommended): A subtle spice that elevates the granola with cozy notes.
- Pinch of salt (optional but recommended): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweet and nutty elements.
- Yogurt (for topping): Creamy, tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with the crunchy cups.
- Fresh fruit (for topping): Adds bursts of freshness and color to each cup.
- Chia seeds (for topping): For a superfood boost and a tiny crunchy bite.
How to Make Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms, generously grease six cavities of a muffin pan using coconut oil or your preferred choice. This ensures the granola cups will release easily without sticking, preserving their delicate shape.
Step 2: Mix the Granola Base
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, runny peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything until it’s well incorporated into a sticky, textured mixture. This blend is the heart of your granola cups, promising crunch and sweet, nutty flavor once baked.
Step 3: Form the Cups
Divide the mixture evenly among the greased muffin cavities. Then, using your fingers or the back of a tablespoon, gently press down and create a hollow well in the center of each cup. This well will be your perfect little nest for the creamy yogurt topping.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the muffin pan into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn beautifully golden brown around the edges. Once done, let the cups cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully loosening them with a knife and moving them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here leads to crunchier, sturdier cups.
Step 5: Assemble Your Granola Yogurt Cups
This is the fun part! Spoon your favorite yogurt into each granola cup, filling the hollow centers you created earlier. Then top with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas and sprinkle with chia seeds for that final boost of nutrition and crunch. The combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and fresh is absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe, consider garnishing with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness, shredded coconut for tropical flair, or a handful of toasted nuts for crunch and depth. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can add a burst of color and freshness that makes your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
These cups shine as a standalone snack or breakfast, but pairing them with a crisp apple or a warm cup of herbal tea creates a balanced and satisfying meal. If you want to indulge a bit more, a small side of scrambled eggs or avocado toast complements the creamy and crunchy interplay wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your granola yogurt cups in clear glass jars or petite bowls lined with edible flowers for a charming brunch presentation? You can also layer yogurt and granola inside a tall glass for a parfait-style twist. For a grab-and-go option, pack the cups in a lunchbox with separate fruit containers to keep things fresh until you’re ready to devour them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely, since they’re so delicious), store the baked granola cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps keep their crunch intact without moisture softening the shells.
Freezing
To enjoy these granola cups later, freeze the baked shells before filling them with yogurt. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen granola cups will last up to a month, so you can prep ahead for a quick and healthy snack anytime.
Reheating
When ready to eat, gently warm the frozen granola cups in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to restore crispness. Let them cool slightly before adding yogurt and toppings, ensuring the yogurt doesn’t melt or get too runny.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters besides peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter work brilliantly here, each adding its own unique flavor and creaminess to the Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe.
What type of yogurt is best for topping?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice for its thick texture and tangy flavor, but feel free to use any yogurt you love, including dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan twist.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep the recipe completely gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
How long do the granola cups stay crisp after adding yogurt?
Once filled with yogurt, the granola cups are best enjoyed immediately to maintain their crunchiness. If prepping ahead, keep the granola cups and yogurt separate until ready to serve.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Definitely! Use maple syrup instead of honey (if you prefer), a dairy-free yogurt, and your favorite nut or seed butter made without added dairy to keep everything vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe is one of those treasures that balances health, flavor, and ease so effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, these cups make each bite a joyful moment. Don’t be surprised if they become a go-to staple in your kitchen because honestly, who can resist crunchy granola formed into edible cups filled with creamy yogurt and bursts of fresh fruit? Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite snack or breakfast ritual.
Print
Granola Yogurt Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Granola Yogurt Cups are a delightful and healthy snack or breakfast option featuring a baked oat-based granola cup filled with creamy yogurt and topped with fresh fruit and chia seeds. With a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, these cups are perfect for meal prep and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Granola Cups
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup runny peanut butter
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of salt (optional but recommended)
Toppings
- Yogurt (for topping)
- Fresh fruit (for topping)
- Chia seeds (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease 6 cavities of a muffin pan with coconut oil to prevent sticking and help the cups come out easily.
- Mix Granola Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, runny peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Fill Muffin Pan: Evenly divide the granola mixture among the 6 greased muffin cavities. Using your fingers or the back of a tablespoon, create a small well or indentation in the center of each cup for the yogurt filling later.
- Bake Granola Cups: Bake the cups in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cups to cool in the muffin pan for 15 minutes to set properly.
- Remove and Cool Completely: Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen each granola cup, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which ensures they firm up and hold their shape well.
- Assemble the Yogurt Cups: Once the granola cups are fully cooled, spoon your favorite yogurt into the wells. Top with fresh fruit and sprinkle chia seeds or any other desired toppings to add texture and flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Notes
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or any other nut butter of your choice.
- Feel free to use any type of yogurt: Greek, regular, dairy-free, or flavored varieties.
- Customize your fruit toppings based on seasonality and preference; berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples work great.
- These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days once assembled to maintain freshness.
- For a crunchier texture, consider toasting the oats slightly before mixing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
