Name: The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (or quick-cooking oats, but NOT instant oats); 0.5 cup chopped nuts, seeds, or additional rolled oats (e.g., sunflower seeds); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon apple pie or pumpkin pie spice (or substitute with cinnamon); 1 medium banana, mashed (or substitute with applesauce); 3 Tablespoons peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter such as almond or pumpkin seed butter); 2 Tablespoons maple syrup (adjust more to taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1/2 cup yogurt; Fresh berries or any fresh fruits; Nuts or seeds (optional toppings)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 46 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a delightful and nourishing breakfast or snack, look no further than The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe. These charming little cups combine the satisfying crunch of homemade granola with creamy yogurt and vibrant fresh fruits, creating a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re treating yourself to a weekend brunch or preparing an easy grab-and-go snack, this recipe is both comforting and exciting, promising smiles with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface, filled with three main layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is made up of light brown rolled oats and sunflower seeds, covering the whole base of the bowl with a rough texture. On the left side, there is a creamy pale yellow mashed banana layer that looks soft and slightly chunky. On the right side, next to the banana, there is a thick dollop of dark brown almond butter with a smooth but slightly grainy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering taste, texture, and that eye-catching appeal. From the hearty oats providing a wholesome base to the fresh fruits that add color and brightness, every component is thoughtfully chosen to make these granola cups truly shine.

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: This offers the perfect hearty texture; avoid instant oats as they won’t hold up well when baked.
0.5 cup chopped nuts, seeds, or extra oats: Adds crunch and nutritional boosts; sunflower seeds are a great option, but it’s flexible to your preference.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A tiny pinch to enhance all the natural flavors.
1 teaspoon apple pie or pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon): Brings warmth and a cozy spice note to the granola cups.
1 medium mashed banana: Acts as a natural sweetener and binder; applesauce can be a great substitute.
3 tablespoons peanut butter: Adds richness and helps the cups stick together; any nut or seed butter works well too.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the spices and fruit.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): A subtle vanilla note that elevates the flavor complexity.
1/2 cup yogurt: Your creamy filling that pairs beautifully with crunchy granola.
Fresh berries or other fresh fruits: The stars on top, adding freshness and natural sweetness.
Nuts or seeds (optional): For extra texture and garnish to personalize your cup.

How to Make The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 345°F (175°C). This sets the stage for creating those crispy, golden cups that hold all the delicious fillings to come. Having the oven hot and ready ensures the granola cups bake evenly and develop that irresistible crunch.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the rolled oats, salt, and your chosen warm spice—whether apple pie spice, pumpkin pie spice, or cinnamon. This combination will infuse the granola cups with that inviting aroma and flavor that makes mornings so much better.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the mashed banana, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Stir everything together until you have a well-combined, sticky mixture. The banana and peanut butter act as natural binders, which help the cups form and crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Shape the Granola Cups

Scoop about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the oat mixture into each cup of a silicone muffin tin. Using a spoon or your fingers, firmly press the mixture down and shape it up the sides, forming a bowl-like shape. This is the secret to The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe, creating the perfect vessel for yogurt and fruit. If you don’t have a silicone muffin tray, make sure to grease a regular muffin pan well so the cups don’t stick.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the granola cups turn golden brown with crispy edges. The aroma alone will have you eager to try them. Once baked, allow the granola cups to cool in the tin before removing, so they firm up to retain their shape perfectly.

Step 6: Fill and Garnish

When the cups have completely cooled, gently pop them out. Just before serving, fill each cup with about a tablespoon of your favorite yogurt. Then top with fresh berries, fruits, and any additional nuts or seeds for extra crunch and color.

How to Serve The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe

The image shows a stack of three granola cups filled with creamy white yogurt and fresh fruit. Each granola cup is golden brown and textured with oats and nuts. The bottom cup has Greek yogurt topped with blueberries and sliced green kiwi visible inside. The middle cup has yogurt with a neat row of blueberries on top and bits of green kiwi around them. The top granola cup holds creamy yogurt with a slice of bright red strawberry, a slice of green kiwi, and a blueberry on top. The stack is placed on a white plate, with scattered blueberries around it, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to another level. Sprinkle chia seeds, toasted coconut flakes, or drizzle a little honey over the top for sweetness and visual appeal. The fresh fruits themselves, like juicy berries or tangy kiwi slices, add not only bright color but bursts of fresh flavor that compliment the crunchy granola.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a green smoothie or a chilled glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. If you’re serving it as a brunch option, a mixed green salad or avocado toast makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive touch, serve the granola cups on a wooden board with an array of colorful fruits, small bowls of nuts and seeds, and various yogurt flavors so guests can customize their own cups. Alternatively, layer yogurt, granola, and fruit in clear glasses to create parfait-style presentations inspired by The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any unused granola cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This way, you’ll have a quick base ready for whenever you’re craving a healthy snack or breakfast without the wait.

Freezing

These granola cups freeze beautifully in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Pop them into the freezer and pull out as many as you need—no thawing required if you’re adding yogurt and fruit fresh each time.

Reheating

If you prefer your granola cups warm, simply pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a short burst. Heat them gently to revive their crispness without burning the edges, then fill and enjoy immediately.

FAQs

Can I substitute the banana with something else?

Absolutely! Mashed applesauce works wonderfully as a substitute and still helps bind the granola cups while adding mild sweetness.

Are these granola cups gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.

What kind of yogurt works best?

Any yogurt you love is perfect—Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and protein, while dairy-free alternatives work great for those avoiding dairy.

Can I make these without nuts?

Yes! You can skip the nuts or seeds or replace them with extra oats or pumpkin seeds if you prefer a nut-free version.

How long do these granola cups stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they usually stay fresh and crunchy for about three days.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about The BEST Granola Cups with Yogurt and Fruits Recipe that makes mornings brighter and snack times more joyful. It’s simple to make, customizable, and completely satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a household favorite.