If you’re on the hunt for a delightfully simple yet satisfying treat, let me introduce you to this 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of crunchy puffed quinoa and rich, melty chocolate with a hint of nutty goodness, all coming together in a no-fuss, gluten-free, and naturally indulgent snack. Whether you want a quick dessert or a wholesome bite between meals, this recipe is a little kitchen miracle that’s sure to become a favorite in your collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just three essential ingredients, this recipe keeps things beautifully straightforward. Each component plays its own vital role, creating a balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal that’s simply irresistible.
- 1½ cups puffed quinoa: The star ingredient providing a light, crispy texture and subtle nutty flavor without any heaviness.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate: Choose dairy-free if you prefer; this adds rich creaminess and the luxurious chocolate flavor that holds everything together.
- 2 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew): This smooth addition binds the mixture while adding an extra layer of nuttiness and creaminess you’ll adore.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Mix in Nut Butter
Start by melting the dark chocolate gently in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, stirring often until the texture is silky and smooth. Once melted, stir in your nut butter of choice until it blends perfectly with the chocolate, creating a glossy and thick mixture that will coat the quinoa beautifully.
Step 2: Fold in the Puffed Quinoa
Next, gently fold your puffed quinoa into the chocolate and nut butter mixture, ensuring every crisp piece is fully coated. This is where the magic happens — those tiny pops of quinoa promise crunch and that delightful crispy snap in every bite.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
You have a couple of options here based on how you want to enjoy your crisp. For individual bites, drop about two tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten each mound evenly, and freeze until firm. Alternatively, press the whole mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper for a bar-version that you can slice later. Don’t forget to sprinkle flaky salt over the top to enhance flavor before chilling the dish in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes until it’s set solid.
Step 4: Slice and Enjoy
Once chilled, it’s time to reward yourself! Remove your 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe from the refrigerator, slice if needed, and enjoy. These crisps keep their perfect texture and flavor for up to a week stored properly in the fridge.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving. A few toasted nuts or shredded coconut can also add a lovely crunchy contrast and enhance the presentation without overpowering the natural flavors.
Side Dishes
These crisps are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense chocolate and crisp textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the chilled bar into small squares for a grab-and-go snack plate, or arrange individual rounds on a festive platter for parties. You can also sandwich a spoonful of yogurt or nut butter between two crisps for a handheld treat that feels a little more special and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will preserve the crisp texture and prevent the chocolate from melting or becoming grainy. They should stay fresh and tasty for up to seven days.
Freezing
If you want to keep these crisps for longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month without losing their charm or crunch.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake recipe, reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm briefly for a few seconds in the microwave, but avoid overheating to prevent melting.
FAQs
Can I use regular quinoa instead of puffed quinoa?
Regular quinoa is raw and won’t provide the same light, crispy texture, so puffed quinoa is key to achieving that delicate crunch in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Using dairy-free dark chocolate and a plant-based nut butter makes this a 100% vegan and dairy-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
Can I substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter?
Absolutely! Sunflower seed butter works wonderfully if you’re avoiding nuts or want a different flavor profile — it blends just as smoothly with chocolate.
How long does it take to set the chocolate quinoa crisps?
Chilling in the fridge for about 30 to 60 minutes is ideal to ensure the chocolate firms up nicely and the crisps hold their shape perfectly.
Are there any allergy considerations?
This recipe contains nuts via the nut butter, so substitute with seed butter if you need to avoid nuts. Also, double-check chocolate ingredients if you have additional allergies.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe enough. It’s one of those rare snacks that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly with minimal, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a snack lover, a chocolate fanatic, or simply want a crowd-pleasing treat, this recipe is ready to become your new go-to. Grab those three simple ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with how deliciously easy homemade treats can be.
Print
3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp (No-Bake) Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy no-bake 3 Ingredient Chocolate Quinoa Crisp combines puffed quinoa, rich dark chocolate, and creamy nut butter to create a delicious and crunchy treat. Perfect for a healthy snack or a quick dessert, these crisps come together in just 40 minutes including chilling time and require no baking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1½ cups puffed quinoa
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (dairy-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
- Optional: flaky salt for topping
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, gently melt the dark chocolate until it becomes smooth and creamy. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Mix in nut butter: Add the nut butter to the melted chocolate and mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine with quinoa: Fold the puffed quinoa into the chocolate-nut butter mixture, ensuring the quinoa is evenly coated.
- Shape the crisps: For rounds, drop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread evenly. Alternatively, pour the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper and press down firmly into an even layer.
- Add finishing touch: Sprinkle flaky salt on top if desired to enhance flavor.
- Chill and set: Place the shaped mixture in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes, or until fully set and firm.
- Serve and store: Slice into squares or bars if using the baking dish method, and store the crisps in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Use puffed quinoa, not raw quinoa, to ensure the crisp texture.
- Choose a dairy-free dark chocolate if you want to keep the recipe vegan or dairy-free.
- Nut butter options include peanut, almond, or cashew based on preference.
- Flaky salt is optional but adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
- Store crisps in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
