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Banana Oat Granola Clusters in the Air Fryer: A Delightful Snack

Granola has long been a beloved breakfast staple and a handy snack option for those on the go. When combined with the delightful sweetness of ripe bananas, it transforms into a wholesome treat that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. While traditionally baked in an oven, using an air fryer to make Banana Oat Granola Clusters is a game-changer, resulting in crispy, golden clusters in less time. Here’s a simple guide to making these irresistible treats.

Ingredients

To make your own Banana Oat Granola Clusters, you will need:

• 2 cups of rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup of nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup of mixed nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds)
• 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the mashed banana, honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Next, add the rolled oats and cinnamon (if using) to the bowl. Stir everything together until the oats are well-coated with the banana mixture. Finally, fold in your choice of nuts or seeds, and incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruit if you fancy a sweeter touch.

2. Form the Clusters

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form the granola clusters. Using your hands, take portions of the mixture and gently squeeze them together to form small clusters. This will help them hold their shape during the cooking process.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Preheating ensures that your granola clusters cook evenly and achieve that perfect crunch.

4. Air Fry the Clusters

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the banana oat clusters in a single layer, leaving space between them to allow for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Air fry the clusters for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary based on the model of your air fryer. They should emerge golden brown and aromatic.

5. Cool and Store

Once done, remove the clusters from the air fryer and let them cool completely. This will allow them to firm up even more. Store your homemade Banana Oat Granola Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for about a week—if they last that long!

Enjoying Your Granola Clusters

These granola clusters are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them on their own as a crunchy snack, add them to your morning yoghurt for a bit of texture, or sprinkle them over smoothie bowls for an added kick. The natural sweetness from the bananas combines beautifully with the nuttiness of the oats, making for a satisfying and nutritious treat.

Conclusion

Making Banana Oat Granola Clusters in the air fryer is not only quick and convenient; it’s also a delightful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your snacks. Packed with fibre, protein, and healthy fats, these clusters are perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious alternative to shop-bought granola. So gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy a batch of these delectable morsels!