These Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruit make for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack. They feature a crunchy granola base filled with creamy yogurt and topped with fresh fruit, making them a nutritious and visually appealing treat. Plus, they can be made ahead for an easy grab-and-go option!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the Granola Cups:

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 2 tbsp flaxseeds
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• For the Filling:

  • 1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
  • 1 cup fresh fruit (berries, sliced bananas, or diced mango)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, coconut, flaxseeds, and cinnamon.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the butter, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
3. Pour the butter mixture over the oat mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cover and chill until cool.
4. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
5. Using moist hands, press the oat mixture firmly onto the bottoms and sides of each muffin cup.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. If the centers puff up, press them down with a spoon.
7. Let the granola cups cool in the muffin tin, then carefully remove them.
8. To serve, spoon yogurt into each granola cup and top with fresh fruit.

Make-Ahead Tip:
Store granola cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before filling and serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 25mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 1mg

The Appeal of Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruit

These granola cups are an excellent alternative to store-bought breakfast bars and sugary cereals. They offer the goodness of whole grains, the protein boost from yogurt, and the natural sweetness of fruit without any artificial ingredients. Their versatility makes them suitable for various dietary preferences, whether you prefer dairy-free yogurt, gluten-free oats, or a nut-free version.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its ability to be prepared in advance. The granola cups can be made and stored, allowing you to quickly assemble a nutritious breakfast without extra preparation in the morning. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for healthy snack options for kids, or simply someone who enjoys a fresh and balanced meal, these granola cups fit the bill perfectly.

Health Benefits of Granola Cups

Granola cups are not just tasty; they are also packed with essential nutrients that promote overall well-being. Each component offers specific health benefits, making this dish a smart choice for those who want to eat healthily without compromising on taste.

• Oats: Rolled oats provide a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. They also contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that supports heart health by reducing cholesterol levels.
• Nuts: Nuts like almonds, pecans, and walnuts contribute healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, including vitamin E and magnesium, which support brain function and heart health.
• Flaxseeds: These tiny seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a powerful addition to any diet.
• Honey: A natural sweetener, honey provides antioxidants and antibacterial properties while offering a touch of natural sweetness without refined sugars.
• Yogurt: A great source of probiotics, yogurt promotes gut health, supports the immune system, and provides calcium for strong bones.
• Fresh Fruit: Fruits like berries, bananas, and mangoes offer vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars that add flavor and nutrition to these granola cups.

Customizing Your Granola Cups

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize the granola base, yogurt filling, and fruit toppings according to your preferences.

• Granola Base Variations: If you prefer a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats. For a nut-free version, replace nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Filling Options: While plain or flavored yogurt is the most common choice, you can also use Greek yogurt for a protein boost or dairy-free alternatives like coconut, almond, or soy yogurt.
• Fruit Toppings: Berries, bananas, mangoes, and even pomegranate seeds work well. You can also add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for extra texture.
• Sweetener Substitutions: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a vegan option.

Tips for Making the Perfect Granola Cups

To achieve the best texture and flavor, follow these tips:

• Press the Mixture Firmly: When shaping the granola cups in the muffin tin, press the mixture firmly to ensure the cups hold their shape after baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Overbaking can make them too hard, while underbaking can result in a crumbly texture. Keep an eye on the edges, which should turn golden brown.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the granola cups to cool in the tin before removing them. This prevents them from falling apart and helps them maintain their crispness.
• Use a Non-Stick Muffin Tin: Greasing the muffin tin properly or using silicone liners makes it easier to remove the granola cups without breaking them.
• Pat Dry the Fruit: If using juicy fruits like berries, pat them dry to prevent excess moisture from making the granola soggy.

How to Store and Serve Granola Cups

One of the biggest advantages of these granola cups is their make-ahead convenience. Here’s how you can store them for later use:

• Refrigeration: Store the granola cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add yogurt and fruit just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: The granola cups can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before filling and serving.
• Meal Prep Tip: If you prefer a ready-to-go option, prepare the granola cups in advance and portion the yogurt and fruit into small containers for a quick assembly.

For serving, arrange the granola cups on a platter with different toppings, allowing family members or guests to personalize their own cups. Pair them with a smoothie, coffee, or herbal tea for a complete and nutritious breakfast or snack.

Why Granola Cups Are a Great Option for Kids

These granola cups are an excellent way to encourage children to eat a healthy breakfast or snack. Kids love the crunchy texture and the ability to pick their own toppings. Here are some ideas to make them even more appealing to young eaters:

• Fun Shapes: Use silicone molds in fun shapes instead of a muffin tin to create unique granola cups.
• Mini Size: Make smaller granola cups for kid-friendly portions.
• Let Kids Decorate: Allow kids to assemble their own granola cups by choosing their favorite fruits and drizzling honey or nut butter on top.
• Add a Chocolate Drizzle: A small drizzle of dark chocolate can make these even more enticing for picky eaters while still keeping them nutritious.

Conclusion

Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruit are an easy, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy a wholesome breakfast or snack. Their combination of crunchy granola, creamy yogurt, and fresh fruit makes them a delightful treat that appeals to all ages. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, they provide a balanced option that supports overall health and well-being.

The versatility of these granola cups allows for endless customization, making them suitable for different dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Whether you’re preparing them for a busy morning, a school snack, or a brunch gathering, they are a convenient and tasty choice that can be made ahead of time.

With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, these granola cups offer a perfect balance of convenience and nutrition. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, try making these Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruit—you’ll love their delicious taste and wholesome benefits!