Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are like the superhero of snacks, swooping in to save your afternoon slump with a delightful crunch and rich chocolatey goodness. Imagine biting into a bar that balances the luxurious taste of dark chocolate with the satisfying crunch of pistachios and quinoa, all while teasing your taste buds with a hint of salt. edible red velvet cookie dough delicious pistachio cream cookies It’s a flavor sensation that’ll make you shout “Hallelujah!” in the snack aisle. For more inspiration, check out this Butterfinger Bliss Cookies recipe.
Whether you’re gearing up for movie night or need a quick pick-me-up after an exhausting day, these bars promise to deliver happiness in every bite. Picture this: You’re cozying up on the couch, and instead of reaching for that boring bag of chips, you pull out one of these divine creations. The aroma wafts through the air, making everyone else in the room envious of your snack choice. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor explosion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are simple to make and require minimal ingredients
- Their unique flavor profile combines sweet, salty, and nutty notes that will leave your taste buds dancing
- Visually stunning with their vibrant colors and textures, they can be served at any gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat
- Plus, they are versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits!
I still remember the first time I made these bars; my friends devoured them so quickly that I barely got a taste myself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Quinoa: Use cooked quinoa for added protein and texture; it’s best when fluffy and slightly chewy.
- Pistachios: Roasted and salted pistachios provide a wonderful crunch; feel free to chop them coarsely for even distribution.
- Dark Chocolate: Choose high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor; it should be at least 70% cocoa for that indulgent touch.
- Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds depth; select pure maple syrup for optimal taste.
- Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt enhances flavors; sprinkle generously on top before setting.
- Coconut Oil: Use refined coconut oil for a neutral flavor; it helps bind everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates sweetness; opt for pure extract if possible for better flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to embark on this delicious journey!
Prep Your Workspace: Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. savory golden halloumi dish This makes removing the bars easier later.
Cook Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Combine Ingredients: Once the quinoa is fluffy (about 15 minutes), let it cool slightly before mixing it in a large bowl with chopped pistachios, melted dark chocolate, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Add Sea Salt: Sprinkle in a pinch of flaky sea salt during mixing. This will enhance all those lovely flavors—don’t be shy!
Transfer Mixture: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly using a spatula. Press down firmly to create dense bars.
Chill & Set: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set. Once firm, lift out from dish using parchment overhang and slice into bars.
Now enjoy your Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars whenever you need a tasty snack! scrumptious mini s’mores pies.
You Must Know
- Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are not just a treat; they’re a delightful fusion of flavors and textures
- The combination of nutty pistachios, rich dark chocolate, and crunchy quinoa creates an irresistible snack that’s both healthy and indulgent
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by toasting the quinoa for added crunch, then melt the chocolate while prepping the nuts. This ensures all elements are perfectly incorporated.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pistachios for almonds or walnuts. You can also add dried fruit or spices to personalize your bars.
Storing & Reheating
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate them.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- These Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars come together quickly, making them perfect for unexpected guests
- Keeping your ingredients pre-measured simplifies the process and ensures even distribution throughout the bars
- Don’t skimp on the salt; it enhances the chocolate’s richness
Creating these bars reminds me of a sunny afternoon spent with my best friend, laughing as we tried to keep our hands from devouring the mixture before it set.
FAQ
What is the best way to melt chocolate?
Using a double boiler helps prevent chocolate from burning while achieving a smooth consistency.
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Almonds or cashews offer delicious alternatives that still complement the chocolate well.
How long do these bars last?
These treats can last up to one week stored properly at room temperature.
Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 bars 1x
Description
Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are the perfect snack to elevate your afternoon with their delightful crunch and rich chocolate flavor. These bars combine fluffy quinoa, roasted pistachios, and high-quality dark chocolate, all balanced with a hint of sea salt. Whether you’re cuddling up for movie night or need a quick energy boost, these irresistible bars promise to satisfy your cravings while being a healthier alternative to traditional snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup roasted and salted pistachios, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt (plus more for topping)
- 2 tbsp refined coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
- Rinse quinoa under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and cover for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped pistachios, melted dark chocolate, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly using a spatula. Press down firmly to create dense bars.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set. Lift out using parchment overhang and slice into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg