Are you ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing a nutritious punch? These Chocolate Puffed Quinoa Snack Bars are not just a delicious snack; they’re a delightful fusion of crunchy quinoa, rich chocolate, and creamy almond butter that will leave you craving more! Perfect for a quick energy boost or a post-workout pick-me-up, these bars are incredibly easy to make and require just 25 minutes of your time. So, grab your ingredients and prepare to impress your taste buds with this irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup puffed quinoa
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, combine almond butter and honey (or agave syrup) over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in cocoa powder until completely incorporated and no lumps remain.
- Add puffed quinoa to the mixture, gently folding with a spatula to ensure even coating. Make sure all quinoa is thoroughly mixed with the chocolate-almond butter base.
- If using dried fruit, fold it into the mixture at this stage for additional texture and flavor.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, using the back of a spatula to press down firmly and create an even, compact layer.
- Melt dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- Drizzle melted chocolate evenly over the pressed quinoa mixture, creating a decorative top layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate has set and the bars are firm.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 10 even bars using a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, make sure your almond butter and dark chocolate chips are fresh. This will enhance the overall taste of your bars.
- Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, use the back of a spatula to press down firmly. This ensures that the bars hold together nicely once they’re cut.
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator until they are completely set. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Store Properly: Keep your snack bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
