Name: Peanut Butter Granola with Chocolate Chips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups small flake rolled oats; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup runny honey; 2 tablespoons oil; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Granola with Chocolate Chips Recipe

This recipe is simple to make and uses pantry-friendly ingredients you may already have on hand. The combination of peanut butter and honey creates a warm, nutty sweetness that pairs perfectly with the toasted oats and coconut. It also bakes into satisfying clusters, which makes every bite extra delicious.

Another reason to love this granola is its versatility. You can enjoy it with milk, sprinkle it over smoothie bowls, layer it into parfaits, or grab a handful for a quick snack. The chocolate chips make it feel a little special, while still being wholesome enough for everyday use.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups small flake rolled oats
1 cup shredded coconut
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup runny honey
2 tablespoons oil
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup mini dark chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 320°F. Spread the oats evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10 minutes. This step helps build flavor and gives the granola a deeper, nuttier taste.

While the oats are toasting, add the shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt to a large mixing bowl. Once the oats are finished, transfer them to the bowl and stir everything together carefully.

In a medium saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, oil, and vanilla extract. Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring gently until smooth. Be careful not to overheat it, since that can make the mixture too thick or lumpy.

Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated. If the mixture seems a little dry, add another tablespoon of oil to help it come together.

Divide the granola mixture between two lined, rimmed baking sheets and spread it out evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on it during baking so it does not burn.

As soon as the granola comes out of the oven, sprinkle the mini dark chocolate chips over the top. Do not stir. Let the granola cool completely without touching it so the chocolate can harden and the clusters can set.

Once fully cooled, break the granola into clusters and transfer it to an airtight container for storage.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 20 servings.

The total time is 45 minutes. That includes about 10 minutes for toasting the oats, 15 to 20 minutes for baking, and additional time for mixing and cooling.

Variations

You can easily customize this granola to suit your taste. Swap the shredded coconut for chopped nuts if you want extra crunch, or add seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for more texture.

For a different flavor, try using almond butter instead of peanut butter. You can also replace the dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even dried fruit added after the granola has cooled.

If you enjoy a slightly warmer spice profile, add a pinch of nutmeg or a little extra cinnamon. For a sweeter finish, a handful of raisins or chopped dates can be mixed in once the granola is completely cool.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure it is completely cooled before storing, or it may lose its crisp texture.

For longer storage, you can keep it in the freezer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Granola usually does not need reheating, but if you want to refresh its crispness, spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in a low oven for a few minutes. Let it cool again before storing.

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of small flake oats?

Yes, old-fashioned rolled oats work well in this recipe. The texture may be slightly heartier, but the granola will still turn out delicious.

Can I make this granola without coconut?

Yes, you can leave out the coconut if you prefer. You may want to replace it with more oats or add chopped nuts or seeds for texture.

Why do I need to toast the oats first?

Toasting the oats before mixing helps deepen their flavor and gives the finished granola a more golden, crunchy texture.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for extra texture. It will add little peanut pieces throughout the granola.

What kind of oil works best?

A neutral oil such as canola, vegetable, or light olive oil works well. Melted coconut oil is another good option if you like its flavor.

Why should I not stir the chocolate chips right away?

Letting the chocolate chips sit on the hot granola without stirring allows them to soften and then firm up as they cool, helping create clusters instead of a messy coating.

How do I keep the granola from burning?

Check it often during baking and remove it once it turns golden brown. Granola can go from perfectly toasted to overbaked quite quickly.

Can I add nuts or seeds to the recipe?

Yes, nuts and seeds are great additions. Stir them in with the dry ingredients before baking for extra crunch and flavor.

How do I get bigger granola clusters?

Press the granola mixture gently onto the baking sheets before baking and avoid stirring it too much while it cools. Letting it cool completely undisturbed also helps.

Is this granola good for breakfast?

Yes, it is perfect for breakfast. Serve it with milk, spoon it over yogurt, or enjoy it with fresh fruit for a satisfying start to the day.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Granola with Chocolate Chips is an easy homemade recipe that delivers great flavor and texture with very little effort. The toasted oats, coconut, and peanut butter create a rich, crunchy base, while the chocolate chips add just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you serve it for breakfast, snack on it during the day, or use it as a topping, this granola is a dependable recipe you will want to make again and again.