Description
These Crispy Quinoa Cacao Cookies are no-bake, naturally sweetened treats packed with the crunch of puffed quinoa and the rich flavor of cacao. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they combine wholesome ingredients like coconut butter, sunflower seed butter, and maple syrup to create a healthy, delicious cookie that sets in the freezer without any baking required.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut butter (may substitute with coconut oil if preferred)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened sunflower seed butter (or other nut/seed butter)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cacao/cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups crispy puffed quinoa
Instructions
- Prepare the base mixture: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a medium bowl, combine coconut butter, sunflower seed butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds until melted, then whisk until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir the unsweetened cacao powder and salt into the melted buttery mixture until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate puffed quinoa: Gently fold in the crispy puffed quinoa, ensuring an even distribution without crushing the quinoa.
- Shape the cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten and shape each scoop into rounds or your desired cookie shape. The mixture will be loose at this point but will firm up later.
- Set the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and set.
- Storage: Store the hardened cookies in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain crispness and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut oil for coconut butter if desired.
- Any nut or seed butter can replace sunflower seed butter depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.
- Keep cookies stored in the freezer as they will soften if left at room temperature for long.
- These cookies are naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making them a healthier treat option.
- To make the cookies more chocolatey, slightly increase the cacao powder, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
