Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent chocolate bar that's not only incredibly delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. These No Bake Cocoa Quinoa Sesame Bars are about to revolutionize your snack game, offering a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor, nutty sesame crunch, and wholesome quinoa goodness. Whether you're a health enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or someone looking for a quick and easy treat, these bars are your ultimate solution to satisfying cravings without any baking required!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Gluten Free
Serves: 10 Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup tahini or sunflower seed butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, tahini (or sunflower seed butter), cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and form a consistent, sticky mixture.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Fold most of the toasted sesame seeds into the quinoa mixture, reserving a small portion for topping.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and press it firmly into all corners.
- Sprinkle the remaining toasted sesame seeds on top, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 10 even bars using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Use freshly cooked and cooled quinoa for the best texture - make sure it's well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- For a smoother mixture, ensure your tahini or seed butter is at room temperature before mixing.
- Toast sesame seeds carefully - they can burn quickly, so keep stirring and watch them closely.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, well-formed bars.
- Chilling is crucial - give the bars enough time in the refrigerator to set completely.
- For variations, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top or mixing in some dark chocolate chips.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, adjust the honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Use a sharp, clean knife when cutting to get neat, professional-looking bars.
- These bars are best enjoyed slightly chilled but not straight from the fridge for optimal texture.
- Experiment with different nut or seed butters to customize the flavor to your liking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
