If you’re looking for a delicious, healthier treat that’s easy to make, these chocolate quinoa bites may just be what you’re looking for. Not only are they satisfyingly crunchy, but also made with healthier ingredients, making them the perfect go-to for a quick energy boost or when you’re craving a chocolate fix.
What is puffed quinoa?
Puffed quinoa (or quinoa pops) are puffed or popped quinoa grains, similar to puffed rice or puffed corn, created by heating the quinoa seeds until they expand and “pop.” This gives them a light, crispy texture and makes them a great addition to snacks, cereals, and granola bars.
They are popular as a nutritious snack or topping because quinoa is rich in protein, fibre, and essential amino acids. Puffed quinoa is gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. You’ll often find it in health food stores, and you can even make them at home by heating quinoa grains in a hot, dry pan.
Why I love making these chocolate quinoa bites:
I know I’m always going on about how much I love few ingredient easy desserts, and these chocolate quinoa bites are another great example of what I mean by that. You only need 3 ingredients to make them and very few preparation steps.
This recipe is based on one of my most popular recipes on the blog – these 2-ingredient chocolate quinoa crunch bites. The only change I made was add some cashew butter to make them a little creamier and to bump up the healthy fat and protein content a little. More than anything I just wanted to remake the recipe to show it some appreciation since I haven’t made it in so long!
Crunchy sweet treats are my favourite, especially when it involves chocolate, so these chocolate quinoa bites tick all the right boxes for me when it comes to desserts. Even better they’re packed with antioxidants, making them a great healthier treat when I’m craving chocolate.
Why you need to try these chocolate quinoa bites:
Nutritious and wholesome – these bites are made with only 3 good-for-you ingredients. Chocolate, cashew butter and quinoa. All three are amazing plant-based ingredients to include in a healthy diet. Dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids and above) is packed with Polyphenols, a type of antioxidant. It’s also a great source of fibre to support digestive health. Cashew butter is a source of healthy fats and quinoa is another source of fibre + protein.
Gluten-free and allergen friendly – For those who follow a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, these chocolate quinoa bites are a great option. Quinoa itself is naturally gluten-free, and if you make this at home or buy a trusted brand, you can easily choose chocolate and other ingredients that meet your dietary needs. The recipe can also easily be made nut-free by using something like tahini instead of nut butter.
Easily adjusted to likes/needs – You can make so many substitutions to make this recipe work for you. For example, you can use a sugar-free chocolate if you need the recipe to be diabetic friendly. You can use puffed rice instead of quinoa if you can’t get hold of it. Plus there are so many additions you can add like dried fruit, spices, coconut, nuts or even protein powder.
What you’ll need to make these chocolate quinoa bites:
Dark chocolate – I always use a chocolate bar with at least 70% cocoa solids. The higher the better. However, bear in mind that you want a chocolate that you enjoy the taste of since that’s going to make up the main ingredient. Therefore the chocolate you choose will be the dominating flavour in these chocolate quinoa bites.
Puffed quinoa – I get mine online. It’s such a fun ingredient to use in healthier desserts, or even a crunchy addition to snacks and salads. I love adding a sprinkle of them on my yoghurt or smoothie bowls. You can use puffed rice instead if they’re difficult for you to get hold of.
Cashew butter – Cashew butter is one of my favourite nut butters to use in recipes because it has the mildest taste out of all the other nut butters. It also tends to have a creamier texture that makes it easier to mix into things like no bake desserts. I particularly love using this brand, but you can use other nut butter if you prefer like almond or peanut butter. You can also use tahini or sunflower seeds butter if you need the recipe to be nut-free.
How to make these chocolate quinoa bites:
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Break up the chocolate into small pieces and add to a heat-proof bowl. Microwave on high until melted, giving it a mix every few seconds to ensure it doesn’t burn.
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Add the cashew butter and mix until smooth.
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Fold in the puffed quinoa, then spread into flat disks on a baking sheet/chopping board lined with parchment paper.
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Refrigerate until set and enjoy!
How to store your chocolate quinoa bites:
These chocolate quinoa bites are best stored in an air-tight container in the fridge. They’ll last at least a week.
These chocolate quinoa bites are:
- Vegan
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Can be made nut-free
- Easily adjusted to likes/preferences
- Easy to make
- Only call for 3 ingredients
- Made with better-for-you ingredients
- Great as a healthier snack or dessert
- Lovely and crunchy
- Super taste and moreish!
Chocolate Quinoa Bites
Ingredients
- 150g dark chocolate
- 4 tbsp cashew butter I used this brand
- 25g popped quinoa I used this brand
Instructions
- Break up the chocolate into small pieces and add to a heat-proof bowl. Microwave on high until melted, giving it a mix every few seconds to ensure it doesn't burn.
- Add the cashew butter and mix until smooth.
- Fold in the puffed quinoa, then spread into flat disks on a baking sheet/chopping board lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate until set and enjoy!
Nutrition
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