Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

Introduction

Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups are a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful breakfast or snack in a fun, portable form. These crunchy, golden granola cups are filled with creamy yogurt and topped with vibrant, fresh fruit, creating the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re prepping for a busy morning, hosting a brunch, or looking for a healthy sweet treat, these bite-sized cups are a nutritious and satisfying choice.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how simple yet impressive they turned out. Pressing the granola mixture into muffin tins to form little edible bowls felt like a creative twist on a classic parfait. When they came out of the oven, perfectly crisp and golden, I couldn’t wait to fill them with silky yogurt and colorful fruit. Each bite delivered the perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and natural sweetness.

What I love most about Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups is their versatility. You can switch up the yogurt flavors, experiment with different fruits, or even add a drizzle of honey or nut butter for extra indulgence. They’re naturally packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making them a well-rounded option for any time of day. No matter how you customize them, these granola cups are a delicious and nourishing way to brighten your morning or satisfy a snack craving.

Perfect for:

• Healthy breakfasts
• Brunch buffets
• On-the-go snacks
• Kid-friendly treats
• Light and refreshing desserts

Why You’ll Love This Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups Recipe

Here’s why Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Crunchy and Creamy: The contrast between the crispy granola cup and smooth yogurt is irresistible.
• Naturally Sweetened: Made with honey or maple syrup, these cups are a wholesome alternative to processed snacks.
• Customizable Toppings: Use your favorite fruits, nuts, seeds, or even a drizzle of honey.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make them ahead of time for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
• Kid-Approved: Fun to eat and easy to make, these cups are perfect for little hands.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 6 granola cups
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 5g, Protein: 8g, Healthy Fats: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup coconut oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (or any preferred yogurt)
• Fresh fruit for topping (berries, kiwi, banana, mango, etc.)
• Optional: Chia seeds, shredded coconut, or dark chocolate chips for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Rolled Oats: Provide a hearty and fiber-rich base for the granola cups.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness without refined sugar.
• Coconut Oil: Helps bind the granola and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
• Greek Yogurt: A creamy and protein-rich filling that pairs well with fresh fruit.
• Fresh Fruit: Adds natural sweetness, color, and vitamins.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Granola Mixture:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a muffin tin lightly with oil or cooking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.

Shape and Bake the Granola Cups:

4. Form the Cups: Divide the granola mixture evenly into the muffin tin, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to form a cup shape.
5. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Cool Completely: Let the granola cups cool in the tin for 10 minutes before carefully removing them.

Assemble the Yogurt Cups:

7. Fill with Yogurt: Once the granola cups have cooled, spoon Greek yogurt into each one.
8. Add Fresh Fruit: Top with your choice of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, or banana slices.
9. Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with chia seeds, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of honey.

How to Serve Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

• Classic with Fresh Berries – Fill the cups with Greek yogurt and top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a refreshing, colorful treat.
• Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup – Add a drizzle of honey or pure maple syrup for natural sweetness and extra flavor.
• Tropical Style – Use coconut yogurt and top with diced mango, pineapple, and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• With Nut Butter Swirl – Swirl in almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter into the yogurt before topping with fruit for a protein-packed variation.
• Chocolate Lover’s Delight – Mix in a few mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs with the yogurt and fruit for a slightly indulgent yet healthy treat.
• Drizzled with Berry Compote – Make a quick berry compote by simmering mixed berries with a little honey or sugar, then drizzle it over the yogurt for a jam-like topping.
• With a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or extra granola on top to enhance texture and add extra crunch.
• Autumn-Inspired – Fill the cups with cinnamon-spiced yogurt, top with diced apples or pears, and finish with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Protein-Packed Version – Use high-protein yogurt and top with chia seeds or flaxseeds to make it a more filling and nutritious snack.
• Dessert Style with Whipped Yogurt – Whip Greek yogurt with a little vanilla extract and sweetener, then pipe it into the granola cups and top with fruit for an elegant dessert-style presentation.

Additional Tips for Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

• Use Honey or Maple Syrup for Binding – Instead of refined sugar, use honey or maple syrup to help bind the granola together while adding natural sweetness.
• Press the Granola Firmly – When shaping the cups in the muffin tin, press the granola mixture firmly against the bottom and sides to ensure they hold their shape after baking.
• Use a Silicone Muffin Pan – A silicone muffin pan makes removing the granola cups easier and prevents them from breaking apart. If using a metal tin, line it with parchment liners or grease it well.
• Toast the Granola Cups – Bake the granola cups at a low temperature (325°F/163°C) to prevent burning while allowing them to crisp up nicely.
• Let Them Cool Completely – Allow the granola cups to cool in the pan before removing them. This helps them set and hold their shape.
• Greek Yogurt for Creaminess – Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier texture and higher protein content. You can sweeten it with a touch of honey or vanilla extract if desired.
• Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle chopped nuts, seeds, or toasted coconut on top of the yogurt before adding fruit for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Use a Variety of Fruits – Mix and match fruits like berries, mango, kiwi, and pomegranate seeds for a colorful and flavorful topping.
• Make Ahead for Convenience – Prepare the granola cups in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. Fill with yogurt and fruit just before serving to keep them fresh.
• Drizzle with a Sweet Finish – Add a final touch by drizzling honey, melted dark chocolate, or nut butter over the top for extra flavor and indulgence.

Recipe Variations for Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

1. Chocolate Lover’s Granola Cups: Add cocoa powder to the granola mixture and top with chocolate chips.
2. Tropical Granola Cups: Use coconut yogurt and top with mango, pineapple, and shredded coconut.
3. Berry Bliss Cups: Fill with mixed berry yogurt and top with extra berries.
4. Nut Butter Granola Cups: Swirl almond or peanut butter into the yogurt for extra richness.
5. Pumpkin Spice Granola Cups: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the granola for a fall twist.
6. Protein-Packed Cups: Mix protein powder into the yogurt for an extra protein boost.
7. Apple Cinnamon Cups: Top with cinnamon-spiced apple chunks and a drizzle of honey.
8. Mocha Granola Cups: Stir instant coffee into the granola mixture and top with espresso yogurt.
9. Chia Pudding Cups: Swap the yogurt with a layer of chia pudding for extra fiber.
10. Matcha Granola Cups: Add matcha powder to the yogurt for a unique flavor twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Store granola cups (without yogurt) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before filling.
• Storage: Keep assembled cups refrigerated for up to 2 days for best freshness.

Special Equipment for Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

• Muffin Tin
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Spoon or Spatula
• Baking Sheet (for cooling)

FAQ for Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups

1. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Store granola cups separately and fill with yogurt just before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought granola? Yes, but homemade granola holds its shape better.
3. Can I make them nut-free? Absolutely! Replace nuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
4. Can I make them vegan? Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
5. Why did my granola cups fall apart? They may not have been pressed firmly enough or cooled completely before removing from the tin.

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Conclusion

Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups are a delightful balance of crunchy, creamy, and refreshing flavors. Whether served as a wholesome breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a light dessert, these nutritious cups are as delicious as they are versatile. Made with a crunchy granola base, a creamy yogurt filling, and topped with fresh fruit, they offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors in every bite.

Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these granola cups can be made with your favorite yogurt and toppings—think berries, nuts, honey, or even a drizzle of chocolate. They’re a fun, make-ahead option for busy mornings or a refreshing way to enjoy a guilt-free treat any time of day.

I can’t wait to see your take on these Fruit and Yogurt Granola Cups! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your favorite flavor combinations. Don’t forget to share your tips and twists in the comments. Happy snacking!