Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, you’ve come to the right place! This Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these bars bring a delightful crunch combined with a creamy texture that will have everyone coming back for more.

What makes this recipe extra special is how wholesome it is. Packed with quinoa puffs, hemp seeds, and a touch of maple syrup, these bars are a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, they’re vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free—making them suitable for various dietary choices!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bars ready to enjoy in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars store well in the fridge, making them an ideal snack to prepare in advance.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Enjoy the benefits of nutritious ingredients like quinoa puffs and hemp seeds while satisfying your sweet cravings.
• Customizable Treat: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful treat! You’ll find everything you need right here:

• 3 – 3 ¼ cups quinoa puffs
• 1 ½ cups peanut butter
• 6 tbsp. hemp seeds
• 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
• 2 tsp. vanilla paste
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (vegan)
• 1 tbsp. coconut oil
• Extra flaky salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Add in some raisins or cranberries for a chewy surprise.
• Try different nut butters: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make it minty: A few drops of peppermint extract can transform these bars into a refreshing mint chocolate delight!

How to Make Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preparing an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. This step is important because it helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to lift out your delicious bars once they’re set.

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the quinoa puffs, peanut butter, hemp seeds, vanilla extract, vanilla paste, maple syrup, and salt. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well-combined. This mixture will form the base of our tasty bars.

Step 3: Press Down the Mixture

Transfer the puffed quinoa mixture into your prepared pan and firmly press it down using your hands or a spatula. Pressing firmly ensures that the bars hold together nicely when cut.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a small bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt them together in the microwave in short bursts (about 30 seconds) until smooth. Mixing them creates a silky chocolate layer that will top our bars perfectly.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed-down quinoa mixture and spread it evenly across the top. Let it set in the fridge for about 3 – 5 minutes before sprinkling some flaky salt on top for that perfect sweet-salty contrast.

Step 6: Cut Into Squares

After about 10 – 15 minutes in the fridge (or until firm), remove your creation from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into 16 equal squares and enjoy these delightful treats!

Now you have a batch of Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars ready to satisfy those sweet cravings! Enjoy sharing them with friends or savoring them all by yourself—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

These delicious bars are easy to make, but a few helpful tips can elevate your experience in the kitchen!

• Use fresh ingredients – Ensuring your peanut butter and chocolate chips are fresh will enhance the flavor and texture of the bars, making them even more irresistible.

• Press firmly – When transferring the mixture to the pan, remember to press down firmly. This step is crucial for achieving a solid bar that holds together well when cut.

• Allow proper cooling time – While it may be tempting to dive right in, letting the bars set in the fridge for longer ensures that the chocolate firms up perfectly, creating a delightful contrast with the chewy quinoa base.

• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to get creative! Adding toppings like chopped nuts or seeds before chilling can give your bars an extra crunch and visual appeal.

• Storage matters – Store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh longer. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

These puffed quinoa bars not only taste divine, but they also look fantastic on any dessert table. Here are some fun ideas for serving them up!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – A sprinkle of chopped almonds or walnuts on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Cocoa powder dusting – A light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder can add a touch of elegance while intensifying the chocolate taste.
• Fresh berries – Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and fruity freshness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast to these rich bars.
• Dairy-free yogurt parfaits – Layer some dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruits for a deliciously creamy side that complements the chewy texture of the bars.
• Nut butter smoothies – Blend up a smoothie with bananas, almond milk, and a scoop of nut butter for a filling drink that matches perfectly with your dessert!
• Chia seed pudding – This creamy, nutrient-packed pudding works as an excellent side dish, providing additional fiber and protein while keeping things sweet.

Enjoy every bite of your Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe while sharing them with family and friends—because desserts are always better when shared!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch to have delicious snacks on hand throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness for about two weeks.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• Although these bars are best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature, if you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the chocolate too melty!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making or enjoying your Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars.

Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter in this Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can all work wonderfully. Just ensure they have a similar consistency to peanut butter.

How do I store leftovers from the Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for about two weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Are Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free quinoa puffs.

How many servings does the Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe yield?

This recipe yields 16 delicious squares, perfect for sharing or keeping as snacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars! They are not just sweet indulgences but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or sharing them with friends, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!