Breakfast Granola Cups Easy and Nutritious Recipe

November 25, 2025May 30, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

List of Primary Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups rolled oats

– ½ cup almond butter

– ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

– ½ cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), chopped

– ¼ cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)

– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

– ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

– ¼ teaspoon salt

– ½ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), chopped

These ingredients form the base of your breakfast granola cups. The rolled oats give them structure and crunch. Almond butter adds a creamy texture, while honey or maple syrup provides natural sweetness. Mixed nuts and seeds bring healthy fats and protein. Dried fruit adds a chewy bite, balancing the texture.

Optional Toppings

– 1 cup Greek yogurt (for serving)

– Fresh fruits (berries or banana slices)

The optional toppings make your granola cups even better. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it a perfect match. Fresh fruits like berries or banana slices offer extra flavor and nutrients. You can mix and match these toppings to suit your taste.

Equipment Needed

– Muffin tin

– Mixing bowls

– Microwave-safe bowl

– Measuring cups and spoons

Having the right equipment makes the process easier. A muffin tin shapes your granola cups perfectly. Mixing bowls help you combine ingredients without mess. A microwave-safe bowl is essential for melting the almond butter and honey. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy, leading to better results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Muffin Tin

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with non-stick spray.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

– In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups rolled oats, ½ cup chopped mixed nuts, ¼ cup seeds, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

– Stir until everything is well mixed.

Combining Wet Ingredients

– In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup almond butter and ¼ cup honey or maple syrup.

– Microwave in 20-second bursts until it’s smooth and easy to stir.

– Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and mix well.

Forming Granola Cups

– Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients.

– Stir everything until the oats are evenly coated.

– Fold in ½ cup chopped dried fruit.

– Divide this mixture into the muffin tin cups.

– Use the back of a spoon to pack it down firmly.

Baking and Cooling

– Place the muffin tin in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.

– Let the cups cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

– Gently remove them and cool completely on a wire rack.

Tips & Tricks

How to Ensure Firm Granola Cups

To make firm granola cups, pack the mixture tightly into the muffin tin. This step helps them hold their shape when baked. Press down with the back of a spoon firmly. If you want your cups to be crispier, adjust the baking time. Try baking for an extra 5 minutes for a crunchier texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need an alternative for almond butter, consider using peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. Both options work well and add unique flavors. For a sweetener, you can swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup. Each will give a different taste, so feel free to experiment!

Serving Suggestions

When serving, think about yogurt flavors. You can use plain Greek yogurt, vanilla, or even coconut yogurt. Top the cups with fresh fruits, like berries or banana slices. These add color and extra nutrients, making your breakfast both tasty and appealing.

Variations

Dietary Variations

If you want a vegan option, swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter and use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps your cups sweet and creamy without any animal products. For gluten-free adjustments, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worry.

Flavor Variations

To spice things up, think about adding some nutmeg or pumpkin spice. These warm spices bring a cozy taste to your granola cups. You can also mix in chocolate chips or coconut flakes for a sweet twist. Both add great texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!

Adding Protein

If you want to boost the protein in your granola cups, try adding a scoop of protein powder to the mix. This simple addition makes your breakfast even more filling. For toppings, consider using nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. They not only add protein but also give your cups a nice finish.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storage

Store your granola cups in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and crunchy. You can place them in the fridge or at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they stay fresh longer. But room temperature is fine for a few days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze granola cups for later use. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight bag. This method helps prevent sticking. For best results, thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can also heat them in the microwave for a quick snack.

Shelf Life

Granola cups stay fresh for about one week at room temperature. In the fridge, they last up to two weeks. Look for signs of spoilage, like a strange smell or mold. If you notice either, it’s best to discard them. Enjoy your tasty and healthy breakfast!

FAQs

How can I make these granola cups gluten-free?

To make these granola cups gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. You can also choose gluten-free nuts. This ensures your breakfast is safe for those with gluten allergies.

Can I make these granola cups nut-free?

Yes, you can make these granola cups nut-free. Instead of almond butter, use sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter. These options work well and provide a similar texture.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you prefer not to use Greek yogurt, try dairy-free yogurt. Coconut yogurt or almond yogurt are great choices. They add creaminess without dairy.

How long do these granola cups last?

These granola cups last about one week when stored in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for best results. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them.

Can I make these granola cups ahead of time?

You can make these granola cups ahead of time with ease. Bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, just fill them with yogurt and top with fruit. Enjoy!

These granola cups are simple to make and great for breakfast or snacks. You learned about the key ingredients, like oats and nuts, and tips for perfecting the recipe. Remember to pack the mixture tightly for firmness and try various toppings to enhance flavor. With options for different diets and flavors, you can easily customize these cups. Store them right to keep them fresh. Enjoy your tasty treats and explore all the ways to make them your ow