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Quinoa Chocolate Crisps satisfy any chocolate craving with a nutty crunch and rich flavor. These bites are perfect when you need a treat that is simple to make and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or freezer. I love that you only need a few wholesome ingredients and almost no active cooking time.
I made these for a family movie night and everyone asked for seconds. Now I always keep a stash in the freezer for surprise visits from friends and neighbors.
Ingredients
- Dark chocolate: Choose one with at least seventy percent cacao for full flavor. If you prefer sweeter chocolate you can use a lower cacao percentage.
- Peanut butter: Smooth or crunchy both work. Adds extra richness and helps the bites hold together. If avoiding nuts use sunflower seed butter instead.
- Puffed quinoa: Gives a delicate crunch with a light nutty taste. Make sure the quinoa is truly puffed and not just raw as it should feel light and airy. Choose a brand without added sugar or flavorings.
- Flaky salt: Optional but enhances the flavor. A good quality sea salt like Maldon makes the chocolate taste brighter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This keeps the crisps from sticking and makes for easy removal.
- Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter:
- Place chocolate and peanut butter in a heatproof bowl. Microwave at low heat for short increments, stirring between each, until smooth. If using a stovetop, set a bowl over simmering water and stir constantly until melted and glossy. Let it rest for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Mix in the Quinoa:
- Add puffed quinoa to the warm chocolate mixture. Stir thoughtfully so every grain is coated and the mixture looks evenly textured.
- Portion the Crisps:
- Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop, drop the mixture into the prepared pan. Press gently to pack the mixture. If you are using muffin tins, fill each cup just to the top so the bites hold their shape.
- Chill and Set:
- Top with a pinch of flaky salt if you like. Place the tray in the freezer for thirty minutes or the refrigerator for an hour until the crisps are firm and easy to remove.
- Remove and Store:
- Slide a knife around each crisp to release them from the pan. If you made multiple batches, continue chilling and releasing crisps as you go.
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Puffed quinoa is my favorite here for its gentle crunch and earthy flavor. It reminds me of the first time I made crispy treats for my kids but updated for a grown up palate. The moments we shared over a fresh batch are among my most cherished kitchen memories.
Storage Tips
Store the Quinoa Chocolate Crisps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to two months. Layer with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. I always freeze extra so I can quickly grab a snack when I need a chocolate fix.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have puffed quinoa you can use puffed rice cereal or millet. For a nut free version try sunflower seed butter or tahini. Dairy free chocolate chips work well if you want a vegan option. Add-ins like chopped nuts coconut or dried fruit can be stirred in for a different flavor and texture.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these crisps as an after school snack party treat or simple dessert. They make thoughtful edible gifts packaged in little bags with ribbons. You can break the mixture into shards for a rustic chocolate bark that looks beautiful on a holiday cookie tray.
Fun Fact About Quinoa Crisps
Puffed quinoa originates from the Andes where quinoa has been a staple crop for thousands of years. Popping the grains gives them a completely new taste and texture. They are now widely used in both sweet and savory snacks worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao provides a deep flavor and pairs well with quinoa's crunch, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter touch.
- → Can I substitute the puffed quinoa?
Puffed rice or similar grains will work, though puffed quinoa offers a unique texture and nutritional boost.
- → How should I store the crisps?
Layer the crisps with parchment in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge or freezer to maintain their texture.
- → Are there flavor variations?
Absolutely! Try mixing in nuts, seeds, coconut, or pretzels, or adjust sweetness with honey, maple syrup, or your favorite chocolate type.
- → Is peanut butter necessary?
No, it's optional but adds creaminess and depth. Sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be substituted, or simply omit it.
- → Why add flaky salt on top?
Flaky salt balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor, adding a satisfying finish to each bite.