Dark Chocolate Quinoa Crunch Bites: A Healthy Snack You’ll Want on Repeat
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 16 bites | Difficulty: Easy ⭐
Dietary: Vegan • Gluten-Free • Dairy-Free • Refined Sugar-Free
Description
These dark chocolate quinoa crunch bites are the perfect healthy snack when you’re craving something sweet but want to keep it nutritious. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from puffed quinoa wrapped in rich, antioxidant-packed dark chocolate. They’re naturally sweetened, easy to make, and ready in just over an hour with no baking required.
Perfect for post-workout recovery, afternoon energy boosts, or satisfying late-night chocolate cravings the guilt-free way. These bites are packed with whole grains, healthy fats, and just the right amount of sweetness. Make a batch and keep them in the fridge for quick grab-and-go snacking all week long!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup puffed quinoa – provides the signature crunch
- 1/2 cup almond butter – creamy, unsweetened
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – natural sweetener
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder – unsweetened, for rich chocolate flavor
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil – melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate
- Pinch of sea salt – balances sweetness
For Coating (Optional)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips – 70% cacao or higher
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil – for smooth melting
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine almond butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add cocoa powder, sea salt, and puffed quinoa to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly until the quinoa is evenly coated and everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Roll Into Bites
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 16 equal-sized balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the bites for at least 1 hour until firm. This helps them hold their shape and makes them easier to coat if desired.
Step 5: Optional Chocolate Coating
If adding a chocolate coating, melt dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between) or over a double boiler. Dip each chilled bite into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Return to the parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes until the chocolate sets.
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Store bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
Substitutions
- Almond butter → peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter (for nut-free)
- Maple syrup → honey (not vegan), agave nectar, or date syrup
- Puffed quinoa → puffed rice or puffed millet for similar crunch
- Cocoa powder → cacao powder for less processed option
Make-Ahead Tips
These bites are perfect for meal prep! Make a double batch on Sunday and enjoy healthy snacks throughout the week. They actually taste better after sitting in the fridge for a day as the flavors meld together.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 3 months; thaw for 5-10 minutes before eating
- Room Temperature: Not recommended; they’ll become too soft
Nutrition Information (Per Bite)
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on specific brands used. Values shown are for bites without chocolate coating.
Tips for Success
✅ Use creamy nut butter – Natural, runny almond butter works best. Thick or dry nut butter may make the mixture too crumbly.
✅ Don’t skip the chill time – This is essential for the bites to firm up and hold their shape properly.
✅ Adjust consistency – If the mixture is too dry, add more almond butter 1 teaspoon at a time. If too wet, add more puffed quinoa.
✅ Quality cocoa matters – Use good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
✅ Lightly dampen hands – When rolling the bites, slightly damp hands prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
✅ Work quickly with chocolate coating – If the melted chocolate starts to thicken, reheat briefly to maintain smooth consistency.
Variations
Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch
Replace almond butter with peanut butter and add 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips to the mixture.
Coconut Chocolate Bites
Add 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut to the base mixture for tropical flavor.
Mint Chocolate Quinoa Bites
Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the base for a refreshing twist.
Extra Protein Boost
Mix in 2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder (chocolate or vanilla).
Superfood Upgrade
Add 1 tablespoon chia seeds and 1 tablespoon hemp hearts for extra nutrition.
Why These Bites Are So Good
Unlike store-bought energy bites loaded with processed ingredients and excessive sugar, these homemade treats give you complete control over what goes into your snacks. The puffed quinoa provides a satisfying crunch and whole grain nutrition, while dark chocolate delivers antioxidants and that rich flavor we all crave.
They’re naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and can be customized to fit various dietary needs. Whether you need a quick breakfast on busy mornings, a post-workout snack, or a healthier dessert option, these bites deliver on taste and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I find puffed quinoa?
A: Most grocery stores carry it in the cereal or health food aisle. You can also order it online. Brands like Ancient Harvest or Nature’s Path make puffed quinoa.
Q: Can I make these nut-free?
A: Yes! Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. Just ensure all other ingredients are also nut-free.
Q: Why are my bites falling apart?
A: The mixture may be too dry. Add more almond butter or maple syrup 1 teaspoon at a time until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate coating?
A: Absolutely! The bites are delicious on their own. The coating is optional and adds extra richness.
Q: Are these good for kids?
A: Yes! They’re a much healthier alternative to candy or processed snacks, and kids love the crunchy texture.
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