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This homemade granola recipe has been a staple in my home for over 3 years! In fact, it’s one of the first recipes I ever developed as a food blogger, along with my almond flour brownies and gluten-free blueberry muffins. I also can’t stress enough how incredibly EASY this recipe is to make. I was on TikTok last week and I watched a fellow food blogger make a homemade granola with like 12 ingredients and I was like… NO no, no need for that. So I finally carved out the time to share this 5-ingredient granola recipe with you!

I should also note that this is one of those recipes that is super easy to customize. Need to make it nut-free? Replace the chopped nuts with additional oats and unsalted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (also, check out the nut-free section on my blog for more nut-free recipes!). Craving something more chocolate-y? Toss in some dark chocolate chunks once the granola has cooled. Or, if you need a sugar-free granola recipe, replace the maple syrup with your favorite sugar-free liquid sweetener – it’s that simple!

Happy homemade granola making, friends! And if you give this recipe a try, I’d really love it if you left a comment and a 5 STAR review on this post. Your support means the world to me!

Homemade granola on a baking sheet with a serving spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make this Homemade Granola Recipe

Peanut Butter: For a personalized touch, opt for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice. To keep it health-conscious, go for a natural, unsweetened variety.

Melted Coconut Oil: Customize your granola with melted butter, olive oil, or any vegetable oil as alternatives to coconut oil.

Maple Syrup or Honey: Tailor the sweetness to your liking by choosing between agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or a sugar-free syrup for a low-sugar twist. The decision between maple syrup and honey is entirely based on your flavor preference.

Rolled Oats: For a gluten-free recipe, ensure the oats you buy are entirely gluten-free, like these ones from Bob’s Red Mill! Opt for old-fashioned oats to achieve a hearty and satisfying texture in your granola.

Chopped Unsalted Nuts: Make your granola uniquely yours by selecting nuts that align with your taste or dietary preferences. I used almonds and cashews in my granola, but really any unsalted nuts will do! For a nut-free alternative, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Homemade granola served with yogurt and fresh raspberries in a bowl.

Is this Homemade Granola Recipe Healthy?

Yes, this homemade granola recipe is relatively healthy. It incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like oats, nuts, and coconut oil, providing a good balance of essential fats, fiber, and protein. Additionally, the recipe allows for customization, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences and ensuring a wholesome breakfast or snack!

Homemade granola pouring out of a glass jar.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Mix It Up: Experiment with different nut and seed combinations to tailor the granola to your taste buds.
  • Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the granola during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
  • More Clusters: For delightfully big granola chunks, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

Elevate your breakfast with this super easy homemade granola recipe! It comes together with just 5-ingredients, one bowl, and in under 30 minutes. This healthy granola recipe is sweetened with maple syrup, and a delicious addition to yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, and/or cashews)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup or honey.
  • Add in the rolled oats and chopped nuts, then mix to combine.
  • Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet and spread the granola into an even layer across the baking sheet.
  • Bake the granola for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and use a spatula to flip and toss the granola. Put it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the granola in the turned-off oven for 30 minutes.
  • Remove granola from the oven and let it cool completely before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 4g

If you have bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder at home then you can make the most delicious 3 ingredient brownies! Something about me is I’m constantly stocking up on bananas. Not only because my toddler LOVES them, but they’re the star ingredient of so many of my healthy recipes. I use them most mornings in my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, then I always save some to make my 4 ingredient banana bread, and any leftovers get frozen for healthy protein smoothies!

Bananas are also the perfect base to this 3 ingredient brownies recipe. They provide structure and a natural sweetness to this gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and totally sugar-free recipe! The only other ingredients you’ll need are peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Then, grab just one bowl and you’ll be on your way to making the most rich and fudgy brownies that are light and healthy, but still taste indulgent!

the side of a 3 ingredient brownie resting on top of another brownie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Requires only three pantry staples.
  • Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have brownies ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and contains no added sugars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
  • Nut Butter Choices: Peanut butter adds a robust flavor, while almond or cashew butter offers milder alternatives. And for a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead!
  • Optional Add-Ins: For extra sweetness, mix in maple syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
3 ingredient brownies on a table stacked on top of each other.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
5 from 5 votes

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies made with just three simple ingredients: bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert that's gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and sugar-free. Plus, it all comes together in just one bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Optional add-ins:

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, and maple syrup (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownie are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 140kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g

Healthier sweet treats are kinda my thing. I recently set out to recreate as many of my favorite classic candy recipes to make them healthier, gluten-free, and dairy-free. My 4-ingredient healthy snickers have been a huge hit, and so have my 4-ingredient date caramels. I even made a healthy homemade butterfingers recipe for halloween last year and OMG they were gone in three days! These healthy twix bars were the obvious next choice because, well – who doesn’t love a twix?! This healthy twix bars recipe absolutely nail the classic flavors and textures we’re all addicted to when it comes to the traditional candy bar. A buttery shortbread crust, smooth and perfectly sweet caramel, and crispy chocolate shell make the perfect quick and easy sweet candy-inspired treat!

overhead image of healthy twix bars on parchment paper with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with wholesome ingredients – No refined sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free – Perfect for various dietary needs.
  • Easy to make – Just a few simple steps, no complicated techniques required.
  • Rich, chewy, and delicious – Just like the classic Twix bars but with a healthier twist!

What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Healthy Twix Bars

  • Almond Flour – Creates a light, buttery shortbread base while keeping the recipe gluten-free. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Coconut Oil – Used in all three layers for moisture, structure, and a silky texture.
  • Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the bars while adding a subtle caramel-like flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavors of both the shortbread and caramel layers.
  • Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, creamy caramel-like texture without any refined sugar. Swap with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips – The perfect finishing touch for that classic Twix-like chocolate layer. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste!
close up image of healthy twix bars with flaky salt on top.

How to Make Healthy Twix Bars

  1. Prepare the Shortbread: Mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Press into a lined 9×9-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let cool.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer: Heat peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a saucepan until smooth and bubbly. Pour over the shortbread layer and refrigerate until set.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then spread over the caramel layer. Refrigerate again until firm.
  4. Slice & Enjoy! Remove from the fridge, cut into bars, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use regular flour? – No, almond flour is key to the texture and gluten-free nature of this recipe.
  • Can I make these nut-free? – Yes! Swap almond flour for oat flour and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • What makes these “healthy”? – These bars use natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and no processed ingredients.
  • How do I store them? – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months!
healthy twix bar with a bite taken out.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For a crispier shortbread layer, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
  • Want a thicker caramel layer? Add an extra ¼ cup of peanut butter!
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.
5 from 5 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars

These homemade Healthy Twix Bars are made with just six simple ingredients, featuring a buttery almond flour shortbread, creamy peanut butter caramel, and a rich dark chocolate topping. They’re gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened, making them a better-for-you sweet treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust. Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the peanut butter to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer. Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the twix bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size” bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 11g

I. LOVE. DATES. They’re just one of those snack cabinet staples I can’t live without. I love turning them into 4-ingredient date caramels, healthy snickers, cookie dough date bites, or even enjoying them completely on their own. I’m always on the hunt though for creative ways to dress up my dates, and I just knew these smashed dates would be delicious! There’s just something about getting that perfect ratio of date to peanut butter to chocolate in this smashed dates recipe that makes these – dare I say… the best dates ever?! You also can’t beat that they’re just 3 ingredients and entirely no bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep and uses only 3 ingredients!
  • Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with natural sweetness, protein, and healthy fats, these dates are as nutritious as they are delicious.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
overhead image of smashed dates with peanut butter and chocolate on a baking sheet.

What You’ll Need to Make Smashed Dates

  • Medjool Dates: These plump and naturally sweet fruits are the star of the recipe, offering a chewy texture and caramel-like flavor.
  • Unsweetened Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and a protein-packed, nutty richness to complement the sweetness of the dates. Substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter for based on your needs/preferences.
  • Melted Chocolate Chips: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for a rich topping. Opt for dairy-free or refined sugar-free chocolate if needed, I love these Hu Kitchen chocolate gems!

How to Make Smashed Dates

  1. Prep the Dates: Slice each medjool date lengthwise to remove the pit, then lay them flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Smash and Fill: Use the bottom of a glass or your hand to flatten each date. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over each one.
  3. Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt your chocolate chips, drizzle over the dates, and transfer them to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate hardens.
  4. Enjoy: Sprinkle with flaky salt, serve, and enjoy!
a bite taken out of a smashed date with peanut butter and chocolate.

Topping Options

  • Flaky Salt: A must for balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavors.
  • Chopped Nuts: Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling crushed peanuts, almonds, or pistachios on top.
  • Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes over the chocolate.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Pit Removal Hack: Use a small knife or your fingers to easily remove the pit from the dates.
  • Smashing Technique: If your dates stick to the glass, lightly grease the bottom with a bit of oil or butter.
  • Storage: Store smashed dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for 3 months!
hand holding a smashed date with peanut butter, chocolate, and flaky salt.
5 from 1 vote

Smashed Dates with Peanut Butter and Chocolate

These smashed peanut butter and chocolate dates require just three ingredients and minimal effort! With naturally sweet medjool dates, creamy peanut butter, and rich melted chocolate, this recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it perfect for everyone. A sprinkle of flaky salt ties it all together, creating the ultimate indulgent yet wholesome snack or dessert!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10 servings

Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 10 medjool dates
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Open up each date, remove the pit, then lay it flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Press down on each date to smash it until it’s as thin as you’d like. Then, spread some peanut butter on top of each smashed date.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over each date, then transfer the dates to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate has hardened. Top with flaky salt and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 20g

I LOVE a single serve dessert! My go-to is usually either my single serve gluten-free cinnamon roll, or if I need some extra protein I’ll quickly throw together a single serve protein cookie. But lately, I’ve been alllll about this 3-ingredient peanut butter mug cake. I love that I can take it straight out of the microwave and onto the couch with me, and enjoy it warm (!!!) while I binge whatever show I’m watching that week. I typically enjoy it all on its own, but if I’m feeling crazy I’ll add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a handful of sprinkles! Please, have fun with this recipe, and most importantly – ENJOY!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fast and Easy: Ready in under 5 minutes, this mug cake is perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
  • Simple Ingredients: Only 3 pantry staples are needed, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
  • Customizable: Add mix-ins or toppings to make it your own while still keeping it simple.

What You’ll Need to Make Peanut Butter Mug Cake

Egg: The egg acts as a binder, giving the mug cake its structure and fluffy texture. I wouldn’t recommend trying to replace the egg with something else, since it’s vital to holding this mug cake together.

Peanut Butter: Adds richness, a nutty flavor, and protein to the cake. Use creamy or natural peanut butter for best results. However, if you can’t have peanut butter use any nut, seed, or granola butter in its place!

Sugar: Sweetens the mug cake. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference or use alternatives like coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option!

3 ingredient peanut butter mug cake on a tea towel.

Here’s a link to the microwave-safe mug I used – on Amazon!

How to Make Peanut Butter Mug Cake

  1. Start by cracking an egg into a microwave-safe mug.
  2. Add the peanut butter and sugar, then mix well until smooth and lump-free.
  3. Microwave for 1 minute. Check the texture; if it’s undercooked, microwave for an additional 10 seconds.
  4. Allow to cool slightly, then enjoy it straight from the mug!

Topping/Mix-In Options

  • Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle a few on top before microwaving for a melty chocolate finish.
  • Banana Slices: Add a natural sweetness and pair perfectly with peanut butter.
  • Crushed Nuts: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds on top.
  • Drizzles: Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or melted chocolate after cooking.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Microwave Timing: All microwaves vary in power. Start with 1 minute, then check and add time in 10-second increments if needed.
  • Texture: For a gooier center, slightly undercook the cake by a few seconds.
  • Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter may result in a slightly denser texture but works perfectly. Stir well before using to incorporate the oils.
close up image of 3 ingredient peanut butter mug cake with a spoon.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This mug cake is:

It’s a perfect quick dessert or snack that’s as easy as it is delicious!

3 ingredient peanut butter mug cake with extra peanut butter on top.
5 from 1 vote

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Mug Cake

This 3-ingredient peanut butter mug cake is the ultimate quick and easy dessert, ready in just 5 minutes! Made with simple pantry staples, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and customizable with your favorite toppings – perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth anytime.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 4 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 microwave-safe mug

Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1-2 tablespoons sugar depending on how sweet you'd like it

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a microwave-safe mug and mix together until fully combined and smooth.
    3-Ingredient-Peanut-Butter-Mug-Cake-Step-1
  • Microwave the mug cake for 1 minute, then remove from the microwave and let cool for at least a few minutes before eating (it will be VERY hot!).
    3-Ingredient-Peanut-Butter-Mug-Cake-Step-2

Nutrition

Serving: 1mug cake | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 29g | Sugar: 16g