Craving a healthy, grab-and-go breakfast? These Quinoa Berry Breakfast Bars are packed with nutrients and simple to make, perfect for fueling your mornings or as a wholesome snack. You’ll love having these delicious Healthy Bars on hand.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Quinoa: Use pre-cooked for convenience, or cook fresh.
- Rolled Oats: Quick oats work too, but rolled oats give better texture.
- Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen (do not thaw).
- Nut Butter: Almond, peanut, or cashew butter are all great options.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar can be used instead.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup nut butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 Healthy Bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking dish, mixing bowls, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift out your Healthy Bars later.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the nut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Ensure all the wet ingredients are well incorporated for an even flavor.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Fold in the cooked quinoa and rolled oats into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and coated. You want to make sure your Healthy Bars have a consistent texture.
4. Gently Fold in Berries
Carefully add the mixed berries to the mixture. Fold them in gently to avoid crushing them too much. This helps maintain the berry chunks in your Quinoa Berry Breakfast Bars.
5. Press into Dish
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or your hands. A compact layer ensures your Healthy Bars hold together well.
6. Bake Your Bars
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bars are set. Let them cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. This is crucial for easy slicing of your Healthy Bars.
7. Slice and Enjoy
Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the entire block from the dish. Slice into 8 even bars. Now your delicious Quinoa Berry Breakfast Bars are ready to enjoy!
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Crunch: Add ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts) for extra texture.
- Chocolate Boost: Stir in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
- Seed Power: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or flax seeds for more omega-3s.
- Tropical Twist: Use dried cranberries or shredded coconut instead of berries.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Quinoa Berry Breakfast Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual bars in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use instant oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but rolled oats provide a chewier texture to these Healthy Bars.
Do I have to use parchment paper?
It’s highly recommended for easy removal and cleanup. Otherwise, you may need to grease your baking dish thoroughly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free, and all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What if my bars are crumbly?
This might mean your nut butter or maple syrup wasn’t enough. Next time, try adding a tablespoon more of either.
Can I use fresh fruit other than berries?
Softer fruits like mashed banana can work, but avoid fruits with high water content unless you reduce the amount.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These Quinoa Berry Breakfast Bars are perfect for healthy meal prep throughout the week.