As a foodie, you’re probably no stranger to the incredible benefits of quinoa – it’s a nutrient-rich superfood that’s packed with protein, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals. But did you know that quinoa can also be used in delicious desserts? Yes, you read that right! Quinoa adds a delightful nutty flavor and creamy texture to a variety of sweet treats. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of quinoa desserts and explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth while nourishing your body.
From classic treats like cookies and cakes to innovative creations like puddings and mousse, we’ve got you covered with our collection of quinoa dessert recipes. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of quinoa desserts!
Chocolate Quinoa Pudding
A creamy and nutritious dessert that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the decadence of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, milk, cocoa powder, honey, and salt.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Stir in melted chocolate chips until fully incorporated.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Quinoa Apple Crumble
This Quinoa Apple Crumble is a delicious and nutritious twist on the traditional dessert. The quinoa adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the sweet apples and crumbly topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2-3 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sliced apples, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Pour the apple-quinoa mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Top with the oat mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quinoa Coconut Macaroons
These bite-sized treats combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with the richness of coconut and the sweetness of maple syrup. Perfect for a healthy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, coconut, maple syrup, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the quinoa-coconut mixture until a dough forms.
5. Scoop the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quinoa Banana Bread
This moist and delicious bread combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the natural sweetness of bananas, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Quinoa Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these chewy, nutritious treats that combine the benefits of quinoa with the indulgence of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add flour and chocolate chips; stir until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Quinoa Berry Parfait
A nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack, this quinoa berry parfait combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with sweet and tangy berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the quinoa mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Spread half of the Greek yogurt over the berries.
5. Sprinkle with half of the granola.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining granola on top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked quinoa is used)
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Quinoa Berry Parfait!
Quinoa Pumpkin Pie
A twist on the classic pumpkin pie, this recipe adds nutty quinoa to create a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pumpkin puree, sugar, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour the quinoa-pumpkin mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quinoa Carrot Cake
This moist and flavorful quinoa carrot cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring the nutty flavor of quinoa and the natural sweetness of carrots. Perfect for a special occasion or as a healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grated carrots, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add baking powder and salt; stir to combine.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quinoa Peanut Butter Bars
A nutty twist on traditional bars, these Quinoa Peanut Butter Bars combine the crunch of quinoa with the creaminess of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together quinoa, peanut butter, and honey until well combined.
3. Stir in oats and chocolate chips.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Lemon Blueberry Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the nutty goodness of quinoa with the brightness of lemon and sweetness of blueberries. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together quinoa flour, oats, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quinoa Chia Seed Pudding
A nutritious and filling breakfast or snack option, this quinoa chia seed pudding is packed with protein, fiber, and omega-3 rich goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk and honey or maple syrup (if using).
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced fruit or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Quinoa Almond Energy Bites
Boost your energy with these wholesome bites made with quinoa, almonds, and natural sweetness. Perfect as a snack or pre-workout fuel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, rolled oats, and chopped almonds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and chia seeds until well combined.
3. Add the honey-chia mixture to the quinoa mixture and stir until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 12-15).
5. Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake bites!
Quinoa Cinnamon Rolls
Quinoa Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Summary:
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these unique and delicious Quinoa Cinnamon Rolls, packed with nutty quinoa and sweet cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine quinoa flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add warm water, melted butter, beaten egg, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly but gently, starting from one long side.
7. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Quinoa Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Experience the creamy richness of chocolate, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and the subtle creaminess of avocado in this unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces heavy cream, whipped
– Chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mashed avocado, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add cocoa powder and vanilla extract to the quinoa mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated.
4. Spoon mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing quinoa and whipping cream)
Quinoa Strawberry Shortcake
A twist on the classic shortcake, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with sweet strawberries and creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Divide cooked quinoa into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Spoon strawberry mixture over the quinoa.
7. Top with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa: 15-20 minutes
– Whipped cream: 5-7 minutes
Quinoa Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal and sweet raisins, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, quinoa, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and eggs. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quinoa Peach Cobbler
A sweet and savory twist on traditional cobbler, this Quinoa Peach Cobbler combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of peaches. Perfect for a summer evening dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Toss until well combined.
3. Pour in melted butter, beaten egg, and honey. Mix until the mixture is sticky and holds together when formed into a ball.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cobbler is golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quinoa Vanilla Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these moist and flavorful Quinoa Vanilla Cupcakes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa flour
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to toast quinoa flour in a dry skillet or oven before using it, as it enhances the nutty flavor.
– If you don’t have quinoa flour, you can substitute with brown rice flour or almond flour.
Quinoa Hazelnut Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the added crunch and nuttiness of quinoa and hazelnuts. These fudgy treats are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa flour, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in chopped hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, and salt.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop; fold into the brownie mixture.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Maple Pecan Granola Bars
These sweet and crunchy bars combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans, making them a perfect snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup quinoa flakes
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, quinoa flakes, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup and melted coconut oil. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover a new world of sweet treats with these 20 delicious quinoa dessert recipes! From classic desserts like banana bread and carrot cake to creative twists like chocolate avocado mousse and strawberry shortcake, these nutrient-rich desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. With flavors ranging from rich chocolate to tangy lemon and bold hazelnut, there’s something for everyone in this collection of quinoa-based sweet treats.
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