Certainly, I’d be happy to provide you with detailed information about Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters, including its history, components, preparation steps, and the estimated time needed to make it.
What are Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters?
Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters are a delicious and nutritious snack or breakfast option. They are bite-sized clusters made from a combination of rolled oats, peanut butter, ripe bananas, and various other ingredients. These clusters are typically baked until they become golden brown and crispy, resulting in a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
History:
While granola clusters, in general, have been a part of various cultures for centuries, the combination of peanut butter and banana in granola clusters is a more recent twist on the classic granola recipe. The exact origin of this specific flavor combination is not well-documented, but it likely gained popularity due to the well-known pairing of peanut butter and bananas in other dishes, such as sandwiches and smoothies.
Components:
To make Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters, you will need the following components:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Steps to Prepare Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix these wet ingredients until they are well combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and cinnamon (if using). Continue mixing until all the ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a sticky, well-coated mixture.
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Form Clusters: Using a spoon or your hands, form small clusters of the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between the clusters to allow for even baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the clusters turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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Cool and Store: Once done, remove the clusters from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will harden and become more solid. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Estimated Time to Prepare:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 20-25 minutes
- Cooling: 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling time)
These Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters are not only a tasty snack but also a great source of energy and nutrients. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast, an on-the-go snack, or a delightful addition to your cereal or yogurt.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (about 60g)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 6g
Health Information:
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Healthy Fats: Peanut butter in this recipe provides healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are heart-healthy and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
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Complex Carbohydrates: Rolled oats are a source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy. They also contain dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full.
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Protein: This snack contains a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for repairing and building tissues in the body. It can also help you feel satisfied and reduce cravings.
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Low Cholesterol: This recipe is naturally cholesterol-free, which is beneficial for heart health. High cholesterol intake can contribute to heart diseases.
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Low Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, making it suitable for individuals on a low-sodium diet. Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure.
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Rich in Nutrients: The addition of nuts and dried fruits provides essential vitamins and minerals. Nuts offer healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins, while dried fruits can provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
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Natural Sweeteners: The recipe uses honey or maple syrup as sweeteners, which are more natural options compared to refined sugars. However, it’s essential to use them in moderation.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Bananas are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, and vitamin C supports the immune system.
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Fiber Content: This snack is relatively high in dietary fiber due to the oats and dried fruits. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and supports overall gut health.
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Cautious Portion Control: While Peanut Butter & Banana Granola Clusters offer several health benefits, it’s important to consume them in moderation. Due to the inclusion of calorie-dense ingredients like peanut butter and honey/maple syrup, portion control is key, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used in your recipe. It’s always a good practice to read product labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary needs and preferences.
