Does anyone else make springtime resolutions? The promise of warmer weather always gives me a boost of energy, and I find myself motivated to eat better, get active, and spend more time outdoors.
Spring is also the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen. It feels natural to move away from heavy, hearty, and hot dishes of winter and toward meals that are lighter. Case in point? This granola. When warmer weather hits, this is my idea of a perfect meal.
About The Recipe
I think most of us go through a banana and peanut butter phase sometime in life. Just like Elvis. This granola recipe combines this classic flavor combination in the most indulgent way.
This granola is rich and delicious – and can almost pass for a dessert. If you’re trying to keep it light, sprinkle a small amount on top of yogurt. But if you’re hungry and in the mood for something substantial, pour yourself a big bowl and savor each bite. It’s full of healthy ingredients that will give you a steady stream of energy all morning: Oats, peanut butter, coconut oil, flax seed, etc.
The best part? One batch of granola costs right around $4 to make. Ounce for ounce, this granola is cheaper than most grocery store granola. And can I just say – it’s much, much better too!
Enter To Win a $50 Gift Certificate From Albion
Want to look super cute while working out or running errands this spring? Lucky for you, the folks over at Albion are giving away a $50 gift certificate to one CRB reader! They are also providing a coupon code for 15% off of any Albion order.
I absolutely love Albion’s clothing. It’s somehow comfortable and supremely flattering at the same time. I work from home about half the time, and Albion has allowed me to stay comfortable and fashionable whether I’m working in my home office, in a coffee shop, or taking a walk over my lunch break. Take a look for yourself. Their swimsuits and clothing are really, really cute!
Albion Coupon Code
To get 15% off of your Albion order, use the coupon code recipe15. (Act quickly! The promotion ends on March 10, 2014. (P.S. Check out their sale section! I am in love with the Flatter Me hoodie in wine.))
Here’s How To Enter
Banana and Peanut Butter Granola Recipe
Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 35 min
If you prefer a granola that clumps together, add another tablespoon or two of honey. Also, avoid stirring the granola after you take it out of the oven. This will help keep it chunky as opposed to breaking apart.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup coconut oil
3 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
1/3 cup ground flax seed
1/4 cup sliced almonds
3/4 cup banana chipsDirections:
Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a 15x10x1 inch baking sheet with cooking spray.
Place peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, or until peanut butter is melted. Add oats and flax seed. Mix well so the oats are evenly coated. Spread on the baking sheet.
Bake granola for 25 minutes, stirring about half way through. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Once granola is cool, stir in banana chips. Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Serve with milk or on top of yogurt.