Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat)
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly. It evokes memories of childhood lunches and afternoon snacks, and now you can relive those moments with a healthy twist. This Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola recipe is a delightful homage to that timeless duo, bringing together the creaminess of peanut butter and the sweetness of fruit in a crunchy, wholesome package. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even as a topping for your favorite yogurt, this granola is a pantry staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat) is not just delicious; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will make you feel good about what you’re eating. It’s customizable, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked oats and peanut butter! You can enjoy it as a quick breakfast or a snack on the go, and the best part? You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a fruit fanatic, this granola will satisfy your cravings.
What Goes In
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: I used conventional honey-roasted peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor.
- 1/2 cup honey: This natural sweetener binds the granola and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 2 cups old-fashioned whole-rolled oats: Make sure to avoid quick-cook or instant oats, as they will make the mixture too dry.
- 1 cup finely chopped lightly salted or salted peanuts: For added crunch and flavor.
- 1/2 cup raisins: A classic addition that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: For a tart contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
- 1 cup oat bran: This boosts the fiber content and can be substituted with 1/2 cup oat flour if preferred.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, as the saltiness of peanut butter and peanuts varies significantly.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- Baking sheet: A rimmed sheet is ideal for spreading the granola evenly.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mini-Prep Plus 4-Cup Food Processor: Perfect for chopping peanuts and grinding oats if needed.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat), Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your granola bakes evenly, giving it that perfect golden color and crunch.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and honey. Use a spatula to mix them together until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture.
Step 3: Mix in the Oats and Dry Ingredients
To the peanut butter mixture, add the old-fashioned oats, finely chopped peanuts, raisins, dried cranberries, oat bran, and salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the peanut butter and honey mixture.
Step 4: Spread on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Press it down gently with a spatula to create a compact layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Bake until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the granola from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into clusters and transfer it to an airtight container. This granola can be stored for up to two weeks (if it lasts that long!).
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- Nut Butters: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- Dried Fruits: Use chopped dates, apricots, or figs instead of raisins and cranberries for variety.
- Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Seeds: Incorporate sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added nutrition and crunch.
Author’s Commentary
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat) is a versatile recipe that I love to adjust based on what I have in my pantry. The balance of sweet and salty, coupled with the satisfying crunch, makes it hard to resist! If you’re a fan of Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try this granola for breakfast. It brings that same comforting flavor into your morning routine. And if you’re looking for a fun way to use up some jam, consider making Jam Thumbprint Cookies to pair with your granola!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
To keep your Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing it. To freeze, simply place the granola in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can eat it straight from the freezer, or let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
Quick Questions
Can I use another sweetener instead of honey?
Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this granola without nuts?
Absolutely! You can omit the nuts if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free version. Just increase the amount of oats or add seeds for crunch.
What can I serve this granola with?
This granola is perfect with milk, yogurt, or even sprinkled over smoothies for added texture and flavor.
Is this granola gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Before You Go
Indulging in homemade granola is not only satisfying but also a healthier choice for snacking and breakfast. With the rich flavors of peanut butter and the sweetness of dried fruits, this Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat) will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any time of the day. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously nostalgic treat!
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Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola (Whole Foods Copycat)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and honey until smooth.
- Step 3: Add the old-fashioned oats, finely chopped peanuts, raisins, dried cranberries, oat bran, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the granola mixture evenly. Press down gently.
- Step 5: Bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden brown and fragrant.
- Step 6: Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet, then break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
- Freeze for up to three months for longer storage.
- Feel free to substitute sweeteners like maple syrup or agave.
