This granola is my go-to carb-loading snack for marathon training. I created it out of frustration with low-quality store-bought options full of added sugar, seed oils, and high prices. I wanted a cleaner, more natural option with high-quality carbs, healthy fats, and balanced sweetness to fuel my long runs without compromising nutrition.
I modeled it after brands like Purely Elizabeth and Grandy Organics but replaced the processed ingredients with raw honey and pure maple syrup as sweeteners and binders, and grass-fed butter for better fats and flavor.
Raw honey is perfect for endurance, offering quick, digestible carbs with a low glycemic index for steady energy. It also provides antioxidants and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium to support muscle function and recovery.
This granola’s mix of slow- and fast-digesting carbs, healthy fats, and protein makes it ideal for carb-loading and supporting energy levels during long runs.
Organic Homemade No Junk Power Granola - Recipe & Easy Tutorial:
Peanut Butter, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Oat, Walnut, and Almond Granola with Coconut for Distance Run Fuel
All ingredients are organic.
Total Time:
50 minutes
Ingredients:
5 cups oats
1 cup walnuts
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup shredded coconut
2 tbsp cinnamon
6 tbsp salted butter
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1-2 tbsp vanilla extract (optional – can be added to the dry or wet ingredients)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 305°F.
In a large bowl, combine 5 cups oats, 1 cup walnuts, 1 cup sliced almonds, 1 cup shredded coconut, and optionally, the 1-2 tbsp vanilla extract. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
In a small pot over low heat, blend 2 tbsp cinnamon, 6 tbsp salted butter, 1 tsp sea salt, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/4 cup peanut butter. Stir until fully blended and smooth.
Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients in the large bowl and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the granola mixture onto a large cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, creating an even layer about 1/2 inch thick.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven, stir the granola, and flatten it back down to an even layer.
Drizzle additional honey in a crisscross pattern over the top of the flattened granola.
Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the granola is golden brown and as crunchy as you like.
Let the granola cool completely before breaking it up into chunks.
Store in an airtight container.
Macro Breakdown (Per 1/2 Cup Serving):
Calories: 249 kcal
Protein: 6.05g
Carbohydrates: 26.45g
Fat: 15.05g
Fiber: 3.65g
Michael Baker
Strength Training & Nutrition Coaching
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