These 4-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Quinoa Crisps are a simple, nutritious, and indulgent snack. Rich in antioxidants and crunch, they combine puffed quinoa with smooth dark chocolate for a guilt-free treat that satisfies sweet cravings while supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only four ingredients
- No baking required
- Naturally gluten-free
- Antioxidant-rich dark chocolate
- Customizable with toppings or mix-ins
- Great for meal prep and snacking
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
- Freezer-friendly for long-term storage
- Quick and easy to make
- Satisfying texture and flavor
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup puffed quinoa (or crispy rice for a variation)
- 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
Directions
- In a heat-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together using a microwave in 30-second intervals, or in a double boiler, until smooth and fully melted.
- Stir in the puffed quinoa until well coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into mini muffin liners or drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until the crisps are firm and set.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20–24 bite-sized crisps, depending on portion size. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 20–30 minutes of chilling time, totaling around 40 minutes.
Variations
- Grain swap: Use puffed millet, amaranth, or rice crispies for a different texture.
- Sweet and nutty: Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch.
- Fruity touch: Add dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins to the mixture.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a flavor twist.
- Layered treat: Press the mixture into a pan and cut into bars for a portable snack.
- Superfood upgrade: Stir in chia seeds, hemp hearts, or shredded coconut for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
Store the crisps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They may also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow frozen crisps to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. These treats are not suited to warm temperatures, as they may soften or melt.
FAQs
What is puffed quinoa and where can I find it?
Puffed quinoa is quinoa that has been heated until it pops, creating a light, crispy texture. It’s available at health food stores or online, or you can make it at home using a hot dry skillet.
Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but using dark chocolate (70–85%) provides more antioxidants and less added sugar, making it the healthiest option.
Is coconut oil necessary?
Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and improves texture, but it can be omitted if using high-quality chocolate alone.
Can I make these without molds?
Absolutely. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and flatten slightly to form crisps without the need for molds or liners.
Are these crisps vegan?
Yes, if you use dairy-free dark chocolate and ensure your puffed quinoa is free of animal-based additives.
How do I store them if it’s warm in my kitchen?
Keep them refrigerated at all times to prevent melting. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container.
Can I add protein powder to the mixture?
Yes, you can stir in a tablespoon of your favorite chocolate or vanilla protein powder before forming the crisps.
How long do they stay crispy?
They maintain their crisp texture for up to 2 weeks in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a nutritious, low-sugar snack that children typically enjoy—just watch for choking hazards in very young children.
Can I use homemade puffed quinoa?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully popped and not burnt for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
4-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Quinoa Crisps are an effortless and nutritious snack option that brings together rich chocolate flavor and satisfying crunch. With endless ways to customize and a quick preparation time, these no-bake treats are perfect for healthy snacking, gifting, or satisfying a sweet tooth with wholesome ingredients. Keep a batch in your fridge—you’ll be glad you did.
Print4-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Quinoa Crisps
These Dark Chocolate Quinoa Crisps are crunchy, rich, and antioxidant-packed. With only four ingredients, they make a healthy, gluten-free snack that’s naturally sweetened and fridge-stable for easy grab-and-go indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 crisps 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 cup puffed quinoa (or crispy rice for a variation)
- 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a heat-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together using a microwave in 30-second bursts or a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in puffed quinoa until evenly coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into mini muffin liners or onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Top with flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Substitute puffed quinoa with puffed millet, rice crispies, or amaranth for variety.
- Use 70–85% high-quality dark chocolate for optimal flavor and benefits.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crisp
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg