Get ready to transform your snacking experience with these irresistible Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups – a perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and wholesome goodness that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine biting into a delicate cup filled with the rich flavors of dark chocolate, tangy dried cherries, and hearty rolled oats, all bound together with creamy almond butter. These aren't just granola cups; they're a portable, nutritious treat that will revolutionize your breakfast, snack time, and dessert game in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and salt. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the almond butter and honey. Microwave on high for about 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract to the almond butter and honey mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Pour the almond butter mixture over the rolled oats in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring that all the oats are coated with the almond butter mixture.
- Fold in the dried cherries and dark chocolate chips, mixing gently to distribute them evenly throughout the oat mixture.
- Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down firmly to pack the mixture into each cup. Make sure the tops are smooth and even.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the granola cups to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This will help them hold their shape.
- After cooling, carefully remove the granola cups from the muffin tin and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store the cooled Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Granola Cups as a snack, breakfast, or a healthy dessert!
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose rolled oats with minimal processing and dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor.
- Press firmly: When filling the muffin tin, pack the mixture tightly to ensure your cups hold together well after baking.
- Watch carefully while baking: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your granola cups to prevent burning – golden brown edges are your sweet spot.
- Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing the cups to cool in the tin and then on a wire rack helps them set and maintain their shape.
- Store smart: Keep in an airtight container to maintain crispness, and they'll stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature or even longer in the refrigerator.
- Customize your cups: Feel free to swap dried cherries with cranberries or add chopped nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
