Chalk It Up to Chocolate Quinoa Bars
These “Chalk It Up to Chocolate Bars” combine crispy quinoa with nuts, seeds, and goji berries, topped with a layer of dark chocolate. They’re the perfect balance of indulgence and health, providing plenty of antioxidants and a delicious crunch in every bite.
Equipment
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
- baking sheet
- Measuring cup
Ingredients
For the Quinoa Bars:
- ¾ cup cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1½ cups Medjool dates about 9 ounces, pitted
- ½ cup walnuts
- ¼ cup roasted salted cashews
- ¼ cup hulled pumpkin seeds
- ¼ cup sweetened coconut flakes
- ¼ cup cacao nibs
- ½ cup cashew butter
- 2 tablespoons hulled hemp seeds
- 2 tablespoons wheat germ
- ¼ cup goji berries
- 8 ounces dark chocolate melted
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
Prepare Crispy Quinoa:
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
- Line an 8-inch-square baking dish with parchment paper.
- Grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- Toss the cooked quinoa with coconut oil and spread evenly over the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Let cool completely.
Process the Date Mixture:
- In a food processor, combine the dates, walnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and coconut flakes.
- Process until finely ground.
- Add the cacao nibs, cashew butter, hemp seeds, wheat germ, and goji berries and process until combined.
- Add the crispy quinoa and pulse to mix.
Assemble the Bars:
- Press the date mixture into the prepared baking dish, using the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down firmly.
- Pour the melted dark chocolate over the top, spreading it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Chill and Serve:
- Transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours.
- Once set, remove from the fridge and cut into 16 bars.
- Store in an airtight container, separated by waxed paper, in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Wine Advice:
Pair these nutritious bars with a refreshing glass of sparkling water or a sweet dessert wine like a Moscato for a delightful, guilt-free treat.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 kcal | Carbohydrates: 24 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 12 g | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 15 g | Salt: 0.2 mg
