Dive into the delightful world of mini granola tart cups! These bite-sized treats are ideal for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert. Made with old-fashioned oats, nuts, and coconut, they're filled with wholesome goodness and taste. Topped with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit, these mini granola tart cups are delicious and nutritious!
Most ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your kitchen, like oats, honey, and vanilla extract. If not, they're easily found in any supermarket. However, chia seeds might not be a common staple. They're usually located in the organic or health food section of the supermarket. Also, for the nuts, you can choose any type you prefer, like almonds, cashews or walnuts.
Ingredients for Mini Granola Tart Cups
Honey: Natural sweetener that binds the granola together.
Coconut oil: Used for its subtle flavor and health benefits.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the granola.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the granola.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Oats: Provides body and texture to the tart cups.
Nuts: Adds crunch and protein.
Coconut: Gives a tropical twist to the granola.
Chia seeds: Tiny seeds packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Greek yogurt: Creamy and tangy filling that contrasts the crunchy granola.
Fresh fruit: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color.
One reader, Janos Thomsen says:
These mini granola tart cups are a delightful treat! The crunchy granola crust paired with the creamy Greek yogurt and fresh fruit filling is a match made in heaven. The recipe is easy to follow and the result is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Mini Granola Tart Cups
How to prepare the granola mixture: Combine the oats, nuts, coconut, and chia seeds in a large mixing bowl. Then, mix in the honey, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
How to fill the granola tart cups: Once the granola tart cups have cooled, gently remove them from the pans and fill them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit. Top with a sprinkle of chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.
How To Make Mini Granola Tart Cups
Our mini granola tart cups use chopped nuts, oats, chia seeds, and shredded coconut for a unique tart crust with your choice of filling.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cuphoney,warmed
- ¼cupcoconut oil,melted and hot
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ½tspvanilla extract
- ¼tspsalt
- 2cupsold-fashioned oats
- 1cupnuts,finely chopped, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- ½cupcoconut,shredded, sweetened or unsweetened
- 2tspchia seeds,optional
For Filling:
- 1cupGreek yogurt
- 1cupfresh fruit
- ⅛cupchia seeds
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Mist 8 mini tart pans with cooking spray.
-
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the warmed honey, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract and salt until combined. Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, toss together oats, nuts, coconut and chia seeds until evenly combined. Add in the honey mixture, and toss until the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Portion the granola mixture evenly between the mini tart pans, pressing the granola firmly into bottoms and up the sides of the tart pans. Then place the pans on a baking tray.
-
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the granola, is nice and browned and toasted on top. Transfer tart pans to a wire rack, and cool until they reach room temperature.
-
Gently remove the granola tarts from the pans, fill with your desired fillings and serve immediately. Or carefully transfer the tarts to an airtight ziplock bag and store for up to 7 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 346.06kcal
- Fat: 21.84g
- Saturated Fat: 10.11g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.34g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.40g
- Carbohydrates: 33.05g
- Fiber: 5.75g
- Sugar: 10.52g
- Protein: 9.31g
- Cholesterol: 4.79mg
- Sodium: 95.17mg
- Calcium: 77.44mg
- Potassium: 239.12mg
- Iron: 2.16mg
- Vitamin A: 6.96µg
- Vitamin C: 0.94mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Mini Granola Tart Cups
When pressing the granola mixture into the tart pans, use the back of a spoon or a small glass to help create an even layer and to ensure the mixture is firmly packed. This will help the tart cups hold their shape better once baked and cooled.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Mini Granola Tart Cups
Prep ahead: Prepare the granola tart cups and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before filling. This will save time when you're ready to serve.
Use pre-made granola: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought granola instead of making your own from scratch.
Batch preparation: Make a large batch of granola tart cups and store them in an airtight container, so you can easily assemble them with different fillings throughout the week.
Pre-cut fruits: Save time by pre-cutting the fruits for the filling in advance and storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Efficient assembly: Set up a workstation with all the ingredients and tools you need to efficiently assemble the mini granola tart cups, streamlining the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Mini Granola Tart Cups Recipe
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and viscosity to honey, while adding a distinct flavor to the tart cups.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil to provide richness and flavor to the tart cups.
old-fashioned oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor.
nuts - Substitute with seeds: Seeds such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can be used as a nut-free alternative, adding crunch and nutritional value to the tart cups.
greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt, providing a creamy and tangy filling for the tart cups.
fresh fruit - Substitute with dried fruit: Dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, can be used as a substitute for fresh fruit, adding a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture to the filling.
chia seeds - Substitute with flaxseeds: Flaxseeds can be used as an alternative to chia seeds, providing a similar nutritional profile and adding a nutty flavor to the filling.
Presentation Ideas for Granola Tart Cups
Elevate the granola tart cups: Start by placing the mini granola tart cups on a sleek, white plate to create a clean and sophisticated presentation. The contrast of the golden brown granola against the white plate will make the dish visually appealing.
Incorporate fresh fruit: Arrange a colorful assortment of fresh fruits, such as vibrant berries and sliced kiwi, on top of the granola tart cups. The pop of color will add a visually stunning element to the dish and showcase the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, on and around the granola tart cups. The edible flowers will bring a subtle floral aroma and a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Drizzle with honey: Use a fine drizzle of high-quality honey to create an artistic design on the plate, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish. The honey not only adds a touch of sweetness but also serves as a decorative element.
Sprinkle with toasted coconut: Lightly sprinkle toasted coconut shavings around the plate to add texture and a hint of nutty flavor. The toasted coconut will complement the granola tart cups and contribute to the overall presentation.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Before serving, lightly dust the granola tart cups with a fine layer of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. The powdered sugar will create a beautiful contrast against the golden granola and enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Mini Granola Tart Cups
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, grinding, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's great for making granola tart crusts and processing nuts or dried fruits.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the granola ingredients and the honey mixture. It allows for easy tossing and coating of the dry ingredients.
Mini tart pans: Mini tart pans are used to shape the granola into individual tart cups. They are essential for creating the tart shells.
Baking tray: A baking tray is used to provide stability and even heat distribution for the mini tart pans while they are in the oven.
Whisk: A whisk is used for combining the honey, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to create a uniform mixture.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used for greasing the mini tart pans to prevent the granola cups from sticking.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the granola tart cups after they are baked.
Airtight ziplock bag: An airtight ziplock bag is used for storing the granola tart cups to maintain their freshness.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Mini Granola Tart Cups
- These granola tart cups can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 7 days.
- To keep them extra crisp, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze the tart cups in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
- When ready to serve, simply thaw the tart cups at room temperature for about 30 minutes before filling them with your favorite yogurt and fresh fruit toppings.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can also reheat the tart cups in a 325°F oven for 5-10 minutes before filling and serving.
- To prevent the tart cups from getting soggy, avoid filling them with yogurt or fruit until just before serving.
- If you have any leftover filled tart cups, store them in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best quality and texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Granola Tart Cups
To reheat leftover mini granola tart cups, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the tart cups on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they're heated through and slightly crispy. This method will help restore the crunch and texture of the granola cups.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the granola tart cups directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. The toaster oven will provide a more concentrated heat, resulting in a crispier texture.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the granola tart cups on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until they're warmed to your liking. However, keep in mind that microwaving may cause the granola cups to become slightly soggy.
If you've stored the granola tart cups in an airtight container and they've lost some of their crispness, you can try refreshing them in a dry skillet. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the tart cups, bottom-side down. Toast them for 1-2 minutes, or until they've regained some of their crunch.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to let the granola tart cups cool slightly before filling them with yogurt and fresh fruit. This will prevent the filling from melting and keep the tart cups crispy.
Interesting Trivia About Mini Granola Tart Cups
The granola tart cups recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and delicious treat. These mini tart cups are versatile and can be filled with a variety of fruits and yogurt, making them a perfect snack or dessert option. They can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 7 days, making them a convenient option for meal prep or on-the-go snacking.
Is Making Granola Tart Cups at Home Cost-Effective?
This mini granola tart cups recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like oats, nuts, and fruits are reasonably priced and can be bought in bulk. The versatility of this recipe allows for variations based on seasonal fruits and nuts, making it adaptable to budget constraints. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an affordable and nutritious option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its cost-effectiveness and delicious outcome.
Are Mini Granola Tart Cups Healthy or Unhealthy?
The mini granola tart cups recipe is a relatively healthy treat that incorporates several nutritious ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's health aspects:
Healthy components:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness
- Nuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals
- Coconut: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism and support weight management
- Chia seeds: High in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Greek yogurt: An excellent source of protein and probiotics for gut health
- Fresh fruit: Provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Less healthy components:
- Honey and coconut oil: While natural, they are still sources of added sugar and saturated fat, respectively, and should be consumed in moderation
To further enhance the recipe's healthiness, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of honey used in the recipe, or replace it with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
- Use a mix of heart-healthy nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios
- Increase the proportion of chia seeds in the granola mixture for added fiber and omega-3s
- Opt for low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt to reduce the overall fat content
- Choose a variety of colorful fruits to maximize the range of vitamins and antioxidants in the tarts
- Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense ingredients like ground flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, or dried goji berries to the granola mixture
Editor's Opinion on Mini Granola Tart Cups Recipe
The mini granola tart cups recipe is a delightful and versatile treat. The combination of honey, coconut oil, and cinnamon creates a rich and aromatic flavor, while the addition of nuts, coconut, and chia seeds adds a satisfying crunch. The tart cups can be filled with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a refreshing and wholesome dessert. The recipe's simplicity and adaptability make it perfect for any occasion, and the tarts can be prepared in advance for convenience. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any menu.
Enhance Your Mini Granola Tart Cups Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Mini Granola Tart Cups
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Mini Granola Tart Cups
Why trust this Mini Granola Tart Cups Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying experience for your taste buds. The combination of honey, coconut oil, and cinnamon infuses the granola tart cups with a warm, aromatic essence. The addition of nuts and chia seeds provides a delightful crunch, while the Greek yogurt and fresh fruit filling offer a refreshing contrast. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and a meticulous baking process, these mini granola tart cups promise a delightful and nutritious treat for any occasion.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!