Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe

This Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe is a healthy, easy-to-make snack packed with protein! Perfect for meal prep or as a topping for yogurt, smoothies, or salads. Get all the details for a crunchy, satisfying granola with the convenience of an air fryer.

The Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe is a simple, nutritious snack that combines crunchy oats, nuts, and seeds with a boost of protein, all made in the convenience of an air fryer. Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, a post-workout treat, or as a topping for yogurt and smoothies.

This granola is easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, such as dried fruits or chocolate chips, and is a quick, no-fuss recipe that can be prepared in just a few minutes. Enjoy this delicious, protein-packed snack anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

• This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy lifestyle.
• It’s packed with protein, making it a great snack to keep you full and energized.
• The air fryer gives it a crispy, crunchy texture without the extra oil.
• You can customize the granola with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
• It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought granola, with no added preservatives.
• It’s versatile and can be used as a topping for yogurt, smoothies, or eaten on its own.

Ingredients (and substitutes)

• Rolled Oats – A great base for granola, or you can substitute with quick oats or quinoa flakes for a different texture.
• Protein Powder – Adds protein to the granola. You can use whey protein, plant-based protein powder, or even collagen peptides as a substitute..
• Nut Butter – For binding the ingredients together. Almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter are great options.
• Honey or Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener. You can swap this for agave syrup, stevia, or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic alternative.
• Chia Seeds – Adds fiber and omega-3s. You can use flax seeds or hemp seeds if you prefer.
• Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, etc.) – These provide crunch and healthy fats. You can swap these with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• Dried Fruit (Raisins, Cranberries, etc.) – Adds natural sweetness. You can swap with dried apricots, dates, or unsweetened coconut flakes.
• Cinnamon – For flavor. If you don’t have cinnamon, try pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor. You can substitute with almond extract or omit it if needed.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness. You can omit this or use a small pinch of sea salt for a subtle flavor boost.

How To Make Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe

Step One: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, and your choice of nuts or seeds.

Step Two: Stir in nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is evenly coated. Preheat your air fryer to 320 degrees F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step Three: Transfer the granola mixture to the air fryer basket in an even layer. Set cook time for 8-10 minutes, shaking or stirring the granola halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step Four: Once the granola is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer. Let it cool completely to become even crunchier. Once the granola has cooled, stir in your dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.) if desired. Store the cooled granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy it as a snack, on yogurt, or with milk!

Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe Tips

• Use a Liner or Parchment Paper: To prevent the granola from sticking to the air fryer basket, line it with parchment paper or a silicone air fryer liner.
• Keep an Eye on It: Air fryers cook quickly, so check your granola frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. Stir it every 5 minutes for even cooking.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup, depending on your preference.
• Try Different Protein Powders: Use your favorite protein powder, whether it’s whey, plant-based, or collagen. Different powders may affect the flavor and texture slightly.
• Add Mix-Ins After Air Frying: If you prefer softer dried fruit, stir it into the granola after it has finished cooking to prevent it from becoming too dry or crunchy.
• Store Properly: To keep your granola fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Experiment with Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, or mix in a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the granola is spread evenly in the air fryer basket for optimal crispness. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storing

• Storing: Once the granola has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or mason jar. Store it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crispness.
• Freezing: Granola freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: To restore granola’s crunch, preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and heat the granola for 2–3 minutes. Let it cool completely before enjoying, as it will crisp up further as it cools.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Protein Granola

Air Fryer Protein Granola pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes to suit any meal or snack. Enjoy it as a crunchy topping for yogurt parfaits, adding texture and protein to your breakfast. Sprinkle it over smoothie bowls for a nutritious boost, or simply serve it with your favorite milk for a classic yet elevated cereal experience. For a grab-and-go snack, mix it with dried fruits and extra nuts to create a wholesome trail mix. Whether you’re topping desserts, layering it into overnight oats, or munching on it solo, this versatile granola enhances every bite!

Air Fryer Protein Granola Recipe Faqs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, you can substitute rolled oats with quick oats for a softer texture, but the granola may not be as crunchy.

What type of protein powder works best? Any protein powder works well, including whey, plant-based, or collagen peptides. Choose one that complements your flavor preferences.

Can I make this recipe nut-free? Absolutely! Swap nut butter for sunflower seed butter and replace nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

How do I prevent the granola from burning in the air fryer? Keep an eye on the granola and shake the basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Lower the temperature slightly if needed.

Can I skip the sweetener? Yes, but the granola may not clump together as well. Consider adding a mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce for natural binding.

Can I reheat granola? While not necessary, you can crisp up granola by reheating it in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 300°F (150°C). Be sure to monitor closely to avoid burning.

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Don’t Forget To Pin!

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