High-Protein Puffed Quinoa Crunch
This High-Protein Puffed Quinoa Crunch is a light and crispy granola alternative made with puffed quinoa, nuts, seeds, maple syrup, and almond butter. Perfect for yogurt bowls, fruit, and healthy meal prep breakfasts.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups puffed quinoa
- ¾ cup chopped almonds walnuts, or pecans
- ⅓ cup hemp hearts
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp flaky salt
- Wet Ingredients
- ⅓ cup almond butter or peanut butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the puffed quinoa, chopped nuts, hemp hearts, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the almond butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and gently press into an even layer to encourage clusters to form.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely without stirring. This helps the clusters crisp up and hold together.
- Break into clusters and store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Serving Sugge
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle over Greek yogurt and berries
- Add to smoothie bowls
- Serve over roasted peaches or apples
- Enjoy as a crunchy snack
- Top oatmeal or overnight oats
Recipe Notes
- For larger clusters, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
- Allow the clusters to cool completely before breaking apart.
- Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate after baking for a sweeter treat.
- Swap the nuts with your favorites or use a mix for extra texture.
Estimated Nutrition (Per ½-Cup Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Sugars | 6 g |
| Added Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
| Potassium | 220 mg |
| Calcium | 75 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |