You know those days when you need a snack that’s quick, healthy, and actually satisfying? That’s where these apple slices with peanut butter and granola come in. The crisp crunch of fresh apples, the creamy richness of peanut butter, and that glorious, slightly sweet granola topping—it’s a combo I swear by after workouts or during those chaotic mid-afternoon slumps. My kids devour these faster than I can slice the apples, and honestly, so do I. It’s the kind of snack that feels indulgent but keeps you fueled without the guilt. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
Let me tell you why this snack is my absolute go-to—and why it’ll become yours too:
- Ready in 5 minutes flat: Seriously, by the time you’ve finished slicing the apple, you’re basically done. No oven, no fuss—just instant snack satisfaction.
- Packed with good stuff: You’ve got fiber from the apples, protein from the peanut butter, and whole grains in the granola. It’s like a little nutrition power trio!
- Kid-approved magic: My picky eater actually asks for these. The fun of assembling them makes kids forget they’re eating something healthy.
- Endlessly customizable: Swap in almond butter, drizzle honey, or add cinnamon—it’s your snack canvas. I’ve even used crushed pretzels instead of granola when I got creative.
- Perfect for on-the-go: Toss the components in separate containers and assemble at work or school. No sad, soggy apples here!
Ingredients for Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
Here’s what you’ll need to make this ridiculously easy snack—I promise you probably have most of this already:
- 1 large apple (sliced into thin wedges—I like Honeycrisp or Fuji for that perfect crispness)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, no judgment here—though I’m team creamy all the way)
- 2 tbsp granola (the chunkier the better for that satisfying crunch)
That’s it! Three ingredients for snack heaven. Though I won’t stop you if you want to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey—my secret little upgrades when I’m feeling fancy.
How to Make Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
Okay, friend, let me walk you through this ridiculously easy process. The hardest part is waiting to eat these while you’re making them! Here’s how I put together my favorite snack in just minutes:
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Slices
First, give that apple a good rinse—nobody wants wax or dirt with their snack! I usually do thick-ish slices, about 1/4 inch wide, by cutting from top to bottom around the core. Pro tip: if you hate seeds getting in the way, just slice the apple horizontally first to easily pop out the core with a quick twist of a knife.
Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter
Now the fun begins! Grab your peanut butter (my spoon always sneaks a little taste first—you too?) and spread a nice layer on each slice. I use the back of the spoon for control, but if your PB’s being stubborn, warming it for 5 seconds helps. Oh, and almond butter or sunflower seed butter works exactly the same way if that’s your jam!
Step 3: Top with Granola
Time for the crunchy finale! Sprinkle that granola generously over the peanut butter layer. I like to gently press it down so it sticks—sometimes I’ll add a tiny drizzle of honey first if I’m feeling extra. The clusters should cling nicely, but if some falls off, no stress! Just scoop it up with an apple slice—double crunch bonus.
There you have it—three simple steps to snack bliss. These are best eaten right away while the apples are still crisp, though I won’t judge if you make a double batch just for yourself. Oops, did I say that out loud?
Tips for Perfect Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
After making these apple slices more times than I can count (seriously, my kids request them daily), I’ve picked up some tricks to take them from good to « oh wow » status. Here are my can’t-live-without tips:
Choose your apples wisely: Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady hold up best against the peanut butter’s weight. I once tried this with a softer apple—let’s just say it turned into apple mush with toppings. Not my finest snack moment!
Natural peanut butter is game-changing: The kind where oil separates? Yeah, that one. It spreads smoother and tastes richer. My husband thought I’d done something fancy the first time I switched—nope, just better ingredients!
Toast your granola first: Just 5 minutes in a 350°F oven makes it extra crunchy. I do this while slicing apples—multitasking win! The warmth also helps it stick better to the peanut butter.
My secret weapon: A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. It balances the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop. My neighbor caught me doing this once and now she won’t eat them any other way either!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Listen, I know we all have those days when the pantry feels empty or someone in the house has food allergies. No worries—this snack is crazy adaptable! Here’s how I switch it up when I need to:
Nut-free? No problem: Sunflower seed butter works exactly like peanut butter—same measurements, same deliciousness. My niece with allergies actually prefers it! Yogurt (Greek or regular) makes a great sub too—just use a thicker kind so it doesn’t slide off.
Out of granola? Chia seeds add great crunch (use about half the amount since they’re smaller). Crushed cereal or pretzels work too—I’ve even used crushed graham crackers when desperate. The key is whatever gives you that satisfying texture.
Fruit swaps: Pears are fantastic when apples aren’t around. Banana slices work too—though they’re softer, so eat fast! Measurements stay the same, just slice them however you like.
The beauty of this snack is you can tweak it endlessly. Last week I used almond butter and sprinkled coconut flakes—total tropical vibes. What’s your favorite combo?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple slices with peanut butter and granola ahead of time?
You can prep the components separately—slice apples and store them with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning, keep peanut butter in a small container, and pack granola separately. But assemble right before eating for maximum crunch! Trust me, soggy granola is nobody’s friend.
What are the best apples to use for this snack?
Go for crisp varieties that hold up well—Honeycrisp and Fuji are my top picks. Granny Smith works if you like tartness, but avoid softer apples like Red Delicious unless you want mushy slices. Pro tip: taste-test different apples to find your perfect match!
How should I store leftovers?
Honestly, these are best eaten fresh. But if you must store them, lay assembled slices on parchment paper in an airtight container with paper towels underneath. They’ll last about 2 hours before the apples soften—just enough time for a quick fridge raid later!
Can I use something besides peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even cream cheese work beautifully. My kids love cashew butter with cinnamon sprinkled on top. The measurements stay the same—just pick your favorite spreadable base.
Is this snack actually healthy?
Yes! You’re getting fiber from apples, protein from peanut butter, and whole grains from granola. I call it « healthy-ish » because it feels indulgent but keeps you full. Just watch portion sizes—I’ve definitely eaten half an apple’s worth in one sitting (no regrets).
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers—but remember, these are rough estimates since your peanut butter brand or granola mix might differ from mine. For one serving (half a large apple with toppings), you’re looking at:
- Calories: About 180-220 (depending how generous you are with the PB!)
- Fat: 10-12g (the good kind from nuts and seeds)
- Protein: 5-7g (thanks, peanut butter!)
- Carbs: 20-25g (mostly from the apple’s natural sugars)
Not bad for a snack that tastes this good, right? My nutritionist friend approves—though she did side-eye me when I admitted sometimes eating two servings. Worth it!
Share Your Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
Did you make these? I’d love to see your creations! Snap a pic and tag me on Instagram—especially if you tried fun variations. Nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen experiments. And hey, drop a quick rating if this became your new go-to snack too! Happy crunching, friends.
Apple Slices with Peanut Butter and Granola
Ingrédients
Method
- Wash and slice the apple into thin wedges.
- Spread peanut butter on each apple slice.
- Sprinkle granola over the peanut butter.