High Protein Chocolate Quinoa Crunch Bars

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Description

These crunchy, no-bake protein bars are made with wholesome ingredients and packed with plant-based protein! Puffed quinoa adds an irresistible crunch while dark chocolate and nut butter create the perfect sweet-salty balance. Make a batch on Sunday and have healthy snacks ready all week long.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups puffed quinoa
  • 1 cup natural almond or peanut butter
  • ½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if vegan)
  • ½ cup protein powder (optional, for extra protein)

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the puffed quinoa and protein powder (if using). Mix well.

Step 3: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil together, stirring until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Step 5: Pour the wet mixture over the puffed quinoa and stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, using the back of a spatula or your hands to pack it down tightly.

Step 7: Melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

Step 8: Pour the melted chocolate over the quinoa mixture and spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 9: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the bars are firm and the chocolate is set.

Step 10: Remove from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 12 bars with a sharp knife.

Step 11: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips

  • Press the mixture down very firmly in the pan so the bars hold together well.
  • Use room temperature nut butter for easier mixing.
  • Can’t find puffed quinoa? Look for it in the cereal aisle or health food section, or substitute with puffed rice or puffed millet.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture.
  • Let bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.

Nutrition (per bar)

Approximately 220 calories | 7g protein | 24g carbs | 12g fat | 3g fiber

These bars provide sustained energy with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and whole grains!

The perfect homemade protein bar that’s clean, crunchy, and absolutely delicious!

Related Posts