Clean and Healthy Peanut Butter Granola

Homemade granola is the perfect quick & nutritious snack, but most of the store bought versions actually quite unhealthy.  Often loaded with high amounts of sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, they're a nightmare for your body that is labeled as "healthy".

Making your own granola at home is not only super easy, it also allows you to control exactly what you're putting into your body.  In this recipe we're swapping out nasty & unhealthy vegetable oil for coconut oil which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids + adds a really nice light flavor to the granola.  We're also substituting refined white sugar for raw organic honey which is an excellent source of antioxidants + B vitamins.  What we're adding in is peanut butter, unsweetened shredded coconut, crunchy peanuts, and plump raisins - yummmmmy!

This granola recipe is out of this world good!  While it's perfect as a snack on its own, give it a try on top of greek yogurt, or as your morning cereal with almond milk!

**I have to mention that today's recipe comes from one of Adams friends, Shimmy.  He stayed at our house a few weeks ago and him & I bonded over our love of fitness and all things peanut butter.  He was kind enough to share his recipe for clean PB granola with me - so thanks, Shimmy!!**

 

Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats {not instant}
1 cup roasted peanuts; halved
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup coconut oil
3/4 cup raw organic honey
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter {I used an organic variety where the only ingredient was peanuts}
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins


Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.  Lightly spray a 13x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray {I use a coconut oil version}.

In a large bowl combine oats, peanuts, coconut, wheat germ, cinnamon, and salt.  Set aside.

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine coconut oil, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract.  Stir constantly until the mixture is creamy & completely combined.  Do not allow to simmer.

Pour the peanut butter mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients, and mix well to incorporate.

Spread granola into your prepared pan and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until firm and golden brown.  Allow granola to cool in pan, then break it into chunks.

Transfer to an airtight container; add in raisins, and mix until combined.

To extend freshness, store in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!