Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola Cups: A Unique Twist on a Classic

Peanut butter and jelly: a flavor combination that’s always a winner. Now, imagine that iconic duo transformed into crunchy, chewy, and utterly delicious granola cups! These are perfect for a quick breakfast on the run, a fun lunchbox surprise, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.

They’re a unique and satisfying way to enjoy a classic flavor. This recipe takes the beloved PB&J and turns it into a portable, wholesome treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into creating these delightful granola cups!

Deconstructing the Classic: A Granola Cup Transformation

The beauty of these peanut butter and jelly granola cups lies in the reimagining of a classic. We’re taking the familiar flavors of peanut butter and jelly and embedding them within a crunchy, oat-based granola cup.

This transformation not only makes them portable and convenient but also adds a satisfying textural element. The combination of chewy oats, crunchy peanuts, and bursts of sweet jelly creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Gathering Your Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

Here’s what you’ll need to create these unique treats:

• 2 Tbsp Butter, Softened: Butter is used for greasing the cups in your pan so the granola cups don’t stick while adding flavor. Make vegan by substituting coconut oil or another favorite oil.
• 2 1/2 Cups Oats (Rolled or Old-Fashioned): Oats form the base of the granola, providing fiber and a satisfying chewiness.
• 2 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal: Rice Krispies add a delightful crunch and lightness to the granola cups.
• 1 Cup Roasted Peanuts, Whole or Halved: Peanuts contribute a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Roasted peanuts provide a deeper flavor profile.
• 1 Cup Raisins: Raisins add natural sweetness and chewiness.
• 3/4 Cup Peanut Butter: The creamy, nutty base that holds everything together and provides that classic PB&J flavor.
• 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor.
• 1/2 Cup Honey: Honey acts as a natural sweetener and binding agent, adding a touch of floral sweetness. Substitute Agave or Maple syrup**You may want to reduce brown sugar to 1/4 cup with these substitutes due to their levels of natural sweetness.
• 1/4 Tsp Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 Tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional): Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note.
• 1/3 Cup Grape Jelly (or your favorite flavor): The fruity element that completes the PB&J experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Granola Cups

Here’s a detailed guide to crafting these unique peanut butter and jelly granola cups:

1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Generously grease each cup of a muffin or cupcake pan with the softened butter. A pastry brush works well, but a paper towel is a perfectly acceptable alternative. This crucial step prevents the granola cups from sticking to the pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, Rice Krispies cereal, peanuts, and raisins. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Set this mixture aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate, larger bowl, combine the peanut butter, brown sugar, honey, salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Use a whisk or rubber spatula to mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the oat mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Use a large spoon or rubber spatula to mix until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture. This ensures that the granola cups hold together well.
5. First Granola Layer: Fill each muffin cup about one-third full with the granola mixture. This layer forms the base of the cups. Press down firmly on the granola mixture in each cup using greased fingers, the back of a spoon, or a rubber spatula. This creates a compact base for the jelly.
6. Add the Jelly: Measure the jelly into a small bowl and mix it with a fork to slightly loosen its structure. This makes it easier to spread. Place a heaping teaspoon of jelly into the center of each granola cup. It’s important to keep the jelly in the center because it will spread during baking. If too much jelly seeps to the edges, it can burn.
7. Second Granola Layer: Fill the remaining space in each muffin cup with the rest of the granola mixture, slightly heaping each cup before pressing down. Press down firmly on the top layer of granola using your preferred method. The granola cups should be about even with the top of the muffin pan after pressing.
8. Bake the Granola Cups: Bake the granola cups in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly golden brown and smell irresistibly delicious.
9. Cool and Release: Remove the granola cups from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, use a butter knife to carefully loosen the edges of each cup and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for an additional 5-10 minutes. This prevents them from sticking and allows them to crisp up further.
10. Enjoy and Store: Once cooled, these peanut butter and jelly granola cups are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container or ziplock bag at room temperature.

Variations and Tips for Perfect Granola Cups

• Jelly Variations: Feel free to experiment with different jelly flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, or even mixed berry would be delicious.
• Nut Substitutions: If you have nut allergies or prefer other nuts, you can substitute the peanuts with almonds, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
• Dried Fruit Additions: You can add other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped apricots, or dried cherries. Be sure to chop larger pieces into smaller ones.
• Making them Vegan: To make these vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the honey with agave or maple syrup.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet granola cup, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey.

These peanut butter and jelly granola cups are a unique and satisfying way to enjoy a classic flavor combination. They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a lunchbox treat, or a mid-afternoon snack. With their customizable ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a batch of these delicious granola cups in no time!