Peanut Butter Sandwiches Get A Game-Changing Crunch From This Add-In

Adding peanut butter to a granola bowl doesn't need much further explanation, but adding granola to a peanut butter sandwich? Now, that's a new one. Peanut butter is a flavor powerhouse: comforting, creamy, a little salty, but even the crunchy versions of it don't really have much texture going on. Throw a scoop of granola into your sandwich, however, and suddenly there's some serious crunch. Crunch in the form of toasty, nutty, and addictive flavors, all of which together will totally change the game.

And granola doesn't just add a new layer of texture, it adds a whole new flavor element to your sandwich. If you want to pair sweet with salty, then try a honey-roasted granola mix, or if you like a little chew with your crunch, then get a granola that is packed with dried fruit like cherries and dates. The world is your granola-covered oyster, just don't overdo it — it's a sandwich add-on, we're not trying to turn your sandwich into a bread-bowl for cereal. Even just a tablespoon scattered right onto the peanut butter spread is enough to change the vibe.

And while we're experimenting with a classic, did you know that butter is also a great addition to a peanut butter sandwich? Just one layer of it makes the whole experience softer and smoother, and also defeats the classic peanut butter stick-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth problem. It may even make the granola texture pop out more with a silky base to contrast the crunch.

So how do you make the most perfect peanut butter and granola sandwich you possibly can? Start with a good structure. A sturdy bread can handle being loaded up, so go for a sourdough, rye, or a thick country loaf. Lightly toasting the bread will also help it hold up against the fillings. And then spread the peanut butter generously all the way to the edges before topping it with your granola. Really press your granola into the peanut butter, so that it merges with the spread. Top it off with some thin banana slices, a drizzle of honey, or a smear of jelly for more delicious flavor.

And you don't need to stick to a fully sweet experience if that's not your style. There are a few ways to give your homemade granola a savory twist, including more adventurous additions like olive oil, rosemary, or a bit of smoked paprika. Peanut butter can handle the savory, so don't be afraid to be bold. If you're feeling extra brave, you may even want to try a peanut butter and blue cheese sandwich. Blue cheese coupled with granola could lead to a creamy, crunchy, salty, and sharp experience with every bite. 

And if you're making your peanut butter sandwich in advance for a packed lunch or a picnic, don't worry, the granola may soften ever so slightly, but it'll still be delicious. Could this be peanut butter's crunchiest glow-up yet? It sure sounds like it.