DARK CHOCOLATE QUINOA CLUSTERS
Dark Chocolate Quinoa Clusters are an indulgent yet wholesome vegan snack that combines the crunch of cooked quinoa with the smooth richness of dark chocolate. With just three simple ingredients, these delightful little bites are incredibly easy to prepare and require no baking. The melted vegan chocolate binds the toasted quinoa into crispy, melt-in-your-mouth clusters, enhanced subtly with coconut oil for extra silkiness. These nutritious nuggets are perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings without the guilt, offering a boost of fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats. Whether you’re packing a healthy lunchbox treat, preparing post-workout snacks or looking for a clean-eating dessert, these clusters fit the bill. They can be made ahead of time and stored for quick energy bites throughout the week. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for an effortless, elegant and clean treat that proves you don’t need refined sugars or flour for deliciousness.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Desserts
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
British
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, 5 Ingredients or Less, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Valentine’s Day, Picnic, Easter, Spring, Mother’s Day
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Healthy, Quick & Easy, High Fibre, Low/No Sugar, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Candy
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tbsp cooked quinoa
- 1 tbsp dark vegan Chocolate, melted
- ¼ tsp coconut oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 92.4 kcal
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 12.2 g
- Sugars: 6.4 g
- Fibre: 1.3 g
- Fat: 1.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Sodium: 2.9 mg
- Iron: 0.7 mg
- Potassium: 81.3 mg
- Calcium: 7.6 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Quinoa: Ensure quinoa is fully cooked and cooled. Pat it dry slightly if moist to encourage better crisping.
- Melt The Chocolate: In a heat-safe bowl, melt the dark vegan chocolate with coconut oil over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts. Stir until smooth.
- Mix And Combine: Add the cooked quinoa to the melted chocolate and stir until evenly coated.
- Shape The Clusters: Spoon the mixture into small mounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill To Set: Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or until clusters are firm.
- Serve Or Store: Once set, enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
- Dry Quinoa Thoroughly: Use kitchen paper to gently pat cooked quinoa dry before mixing for extra crispness.
- Melt chocolate Gently: Avoid burning the chocolate by using low heat or a double boiler setup.
- Use Silicone Moulds: For a polished look, spoon the mixture into mini silicone moulds before chilling.
- Double The Batch: These keep well in the fridge and make a larger quantity to enjoy all week.
VARIATIONS
- Add Dried Fruit: Stir in 1 tsp of finely chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of sea salt or cayenne pepper to the chocolate mix for complexity.
- Nutty Boost: Mix in ½ tsp of chopped almonds, hazelnuts or pecans for extra texture and protein.
- Coconut Touch: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the clusters before setting for added flavour.
- Protein Power: Add a pinch of your favourite plant-based protein powder to enhance macros.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Keep chilled to maintain firmness.
- Freezer Storage: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag or container. Keep frozen for up to 1 month.
- Serving Tip: Let it rest at room temperature for 2–3 minutes if serving straight from the freezer for the best texture.