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.

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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
https://GetUpEarlier.com

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