Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars

Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate, the crunch of pistachios, and the light, crispy texture of quinoa. These bars are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them the perfect snack or energy-boosting dessert. The added sea salt on top enhances the sweet and savory flavors, creating a perfectly balanced and indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and light, crispy quinoa. They’re easy to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. The touch of sea salt on top complements the sweetness of the dark chocolate, while the quinoa gives the bars a unique texture. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or a healthy energy bar, these crunchy, decadent bars are sure to hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled

• 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or dark chocolate, chopped)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup almond or peanut butter (or any nut butter of choice)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (for sprinkling on top)

• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for added texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly and cook it according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet or large plate to cool completely.

2. Chop the Pistachios: Chop the pistachios into small pieces to create little bits of crunchy texture for the bars.

Make the Bars:

3. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate over a double boiler on the stovetop.

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), nut butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. Mix the Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa, chopped pistachios, and shredded coconut (if using) to the wet ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

6. Add the Melted Chocolate: Pour the melted dark chocolate into the quinoa mixture and stir until everything is well combined, making sure the quinoa and pistachios are evenly coated in chocolate.

Set the Bars:

7. Transfer to a Pan: Line a small square or rectangular pan (8×8 or 9×9 works well) with parchment paper. Transfer the quinoa-chocolate mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

8. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set. The mixture will firm up and hold together.

Finish and Serve:

9. Top with Sea Salt: Once the bars have set, remove them from the refrigerator and sprinkle the top with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

10. Cut into Bars: Cut the chilled mixture into bars or squares of your desired size.

11. Serve: Serve the bars cold and enjoy the crunchy, chocolatey goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-12 bars (depending on size)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Chill time: 1-2 hours

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours

Variations

• Add Dried Fruit: Stir in some dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots for added sweetness and chewiness.

• Use White Chocolate: For a sweeter, creamier option, swap dark chocolate for white chocolate.

• Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and opt for a plant-based nut butter (like almond or cashew) for a vegan-friendly version.

• Other Nuts: If you don’t like pistachios, try using almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with puffed rice, puffed millet, or oats for a different texture, though quinoa adds a unique crunch and protein.

Can I use any type of nut butter for these bars?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter, peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter you like. Just be sure to choose a smooth, creamy variety for the best texture.

Can I make these bars without chocolate?

Yes, you can omit the chocolate if you prefer a lighter bar. Instead, you could drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top for sweetness or even add a dusting of cocoa powder.

How do I make these bars sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter bar, simply increase the amount of honey or maple syrup to your taste. You can also add extra chocolate chips to the mixture before setting the bars.

Can I eat these bars as a breakfast option?

Yes! These bars make a great breakfast or pre-workout snack, thanks to the protein from the quinoa and healthy fats from the pistachios and nut butter.

Conclusion

Salted Dark Chocolate Pistachio Quinoa Crunch Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving. With their rich dark chocolate coating, crunchy quinoa, and salty pistachios, these bars are an indulgent yet nutritious snack or dessert. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re the ideal treat to keep on hand for a quick bite, or to serve at your next gathering. Try this recipe and enjoy a deliciously healthy snack!