Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the deliciousness of peanut butter and chocolate, then this Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe is just what you need! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped these up for family movie nights or as a quick snack after school. They’re rich, satisfying, and oh-so-good for your taste buds. Plus, they’re super easy to make, which is always a plus in my book!

These bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends. You can feel good about serving them because they’re packed with wholesome ingredients. And let me tell you, they disappear quickly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip these bars up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combo of peanut butter and chocolate! Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with quinoa puffs and hemp seeds, they’re not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
• Make-Ahead Treat: These bars store well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep or grab-and-go snacks.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds to make them your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe calls for items that you might already have in your pantry.

For the Base

• 3 – 3 ¼ cups quinoa puffs
• 1 ½ cups peanut butter
• 6 tbsp. hemp seeds
• 1 tbsp. SO vanilla extract
• 2 tsp. SO vanilla paste
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping

• 1 cup + 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (vegan)
• 1 tbsp. coconut oil
• Extra flaky salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added texture.
• Go Fruity: Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness.
• Change the Sweetener: If you’re out of maple syrup, try using agave syrup or honey (if not vegan) as an alternative.
• Make It Nut-Free: Swap out peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to keep it nut-free but still delicious.

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 will help prevent sticking and make it easier to lift the bars out once they’ve set.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the quinoa puffs, peanut butter, hemp seeds, vanilla extract, vanilla paste, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined. This step is crucial because each bite needs that perfect balance of flavors!

Step 3: Press Down Firmly

Transfer this mixture into your prepared pan and press down firmly using your hands or the back of a spatula. This ensures that your bars hold together nicely once they’re set.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a small bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt these together in the microwave until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds. This creates a luscious topping that brings everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Pour the melted chocolate over your pressed-down quinoa mixture and spread it evenly across the top. The chocolate adds richness and sweetness that perfectly complements the base.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the fridge for about 3-5 minutes so the chocolate can firm up slightly. Once you’ve sprinkled extra flaky salt on top, return it to chill until fully set—about another 10-15 minutes should do it.

Step 7: Cut and Enjoy!

Once everything has set firmly, remove from the fridge and cut into 16 equal squares. Now it’s time to enjoy these delightful treats! They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

Creating these delicious bars can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your peanut butter and chocolate chips. Fresh ingredients not only enhance flavor but also improve the texture of your bars.
• Press firmly: When transferring the mixture to the pan, make sure to press it down firmly. This helps the bars hold together better after they are chilled, preventing them from crumbling when you cut them.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add in some dried fruits like cranberries or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. This can make your bars even more interesting and nutritious!
• Allow proper chilling time: While it’s tempting to dive into your creation right away, allowing them to chill longer than recommended ensures the chocolate sets properly, leading to a clean cut and a satisfying bite.
• Store properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This maintains their freshness and keeps them chewy!

How to Serve Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe

Serving these puffed quinoa peanut butter chocolate bars is as delightful as making them! They can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Extra flaky salt: A light sprinkle on top enhances the flavors of the chocolate and peanut butter, adding a sophisticated touch.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some crushed almonds or walnuts over the chocolate layer before it sets for added crunch and nutrition.
• Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical twist that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich bars, balancing sweetness and adding brightness to your plate.
• Nut-based yogurt: Serve with a dollop of almond or coconut yogurt for a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the bars.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, makes an excellent companion, complementing the sweetness without overpowering it.
• Granola: A small bowl of granola can offer additional crunch if served alongside, making for a delightful snack combo.

These puffed quinoa peanut butter chocolate bars are not only delicious but also versatile in their presentation! Enjoy experimenting with different garnishes and sides to make each serving unique.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also store well, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easier access.
• Place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm bars, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common queries that might help you out!

Can I use other nut butters in the Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great substitutes for peanut butter if you’re looking to switch things up.

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

You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

What makes the Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe healthy?

These bars are made with wholesome ingredients like quinoa puffs and natural sweeteners, providing a balanced snack that’s rich in protein and fiber without refined sugars.

Can I add other ingredients to customize my Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in dried fruits, nuts, or seeds based on your preference to create a personal touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe as delightful as I do! With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a go-to treat. Enjoy making these delicious bars and feel free to share your creations. Happy baking!