Peanut Butter Chocolate Granola

Granola is one of my favourite snacks, and it's perfect for when you need an energy boost. I go through granola at an alarming rate because it's so addicting - it seems like once you start munching on it you just can't stop! This is especially true with this granola recipe because the peanut butter and chocolate combination is always SO delicious. The recipe is super easy since it has minimal ingredients and a short baking time, so it's perfect to whip up for a quick, satisfying snack (especially for all you university students busy studying for midterms right now). I made this particular batch a couple weekends ago to give as a birthday present to a family friend, so it also makes a great gift for fellow granola lovers!

Ingredients:

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup honey

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

 2 cups rolled oats

1/3 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and spray a large cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray, or grease with butter/canola oil/

In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey and microwave for about 20-30 seconds, until the peanut butter melts. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla until combined. Add in the oats and stir until they are completely coated in the peanut butter mixture.

Spread the granola mixture evenly onto the prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 7-8 minutes, then mix the granola around with a spatula or large wooden spoon. Bake for another 2-4 minutes, until the granola is lightly browned. Remove from oven and place the cookie sheet on a wire rack to cool until the granola is crunchy. The granola will harden as it cools, so don't keep it in the oven for any longer even if it doesn't seem crunchy right when you take it out. 

Once the granola has completely cooled, stir in the chocolate chips. If you don't wait for it to cool then the chocolate will melt (which would also be delicious, so it's your preference). Store at room temperature in an airtight container or jar.

*Recipe adapted from Peanut Butter Fingers