No-Bake Quinoa Bars with Vanilla & Cashew (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
Craving a healthy, no-bake snack that’s crispy, satisfying, and packed with plant-based protein? These vegan quinoa bars check all the boxes–quick, simple, and delicious! These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, healthy fats, and a delightfully nutty flavor, they’re perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying healthy snack bar.
Ingredients
- 2 cups puffed quinoa crisp works best!
- 1/2 cup cashew butter or other nut/seed butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or use date paste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean or vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- optional
- pinch of cinnamon
- melted chocolate to top
- chopped nuts
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients at room temperature in a bowl (with the exception of puffed quinoa). Mix together until smooth and evenly incorporated. At this point, taste the mixture and make sure it's sweet enough for you! If you like things extra sweet, now's the time to add on, or throw in any additional spices.
- Add in puffed quinoa by the cup and using a spatula, make sure quinoa is coated evenly. The mixture should begin to stick together when packed.
- Line a square baking tray (I used this 8x8 inch one) with parchment paper, or lightly grease and transfer mixture into tray.
- Cover with parchment paper, and using a spatula, press down to flatten. Don't press too firmly as you might crush the puffed quinoa, but make sure it's packed down enough so that the mixture will stick once chilled.
- Place in fridge to set for at least 30 minutes. I recommend an hour for best results.
- Once chilled, remove from fridge and slice into bars. At this point you can drizzle melted chocolate on top and add toppings, then return to fridge until firm. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use Fresh Puffed Quinoa: Stale or soft puffed quinoa will result in chewy bars. For that satisfying crunch, make sure your puffed quinoa is fresh and crispy!
- Don’t Overheat the Mixture: Keep everything at room temperature. Heating nut butter can make the bars greasy and cause separation.
- Line Your Pan Properly: Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and for easy removal.
- Chill Your Knife Before Slicing: For perfectly clean edges, run your knife under cold water and dry before cutting the bars.
- Customize with Caution: While add-ins are fun, too many can overwhelm the bars and affect their structure. Stick to one or two optional mix ins!