Imagine starting your morning with a crunchy, decadent granola that's not just delicious, but also packed with nutritious quinoa and rich chocolate flavor. This Chocolate Quinoa Cluster Granola isn't just another boring breakfast option - it's a game-changing, guilt-free indulgence that will transform your morning routine from mundane to magnificent! Whether you're a health enthusiast, chocolate addict, or just someone looking to elevate their breakfast game, this recipe promises to be your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup nuts, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and rolled oats, ensuring they are well mixed and evenly distributed.
- Sift the cocoa powder over the quinoa and oat mixture, stirring thoroughly to create an even chocolate coating.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix carefully, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly coated and moistened.
- Add the chopped nuts and fold them into the mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the granola.
- Spread the granola mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, pressing gently to create clusters.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet, which will help it become crisp and form clusters.
- Once cooled, break the granola into desired cluster sizes and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Tips
- Use well-cooked and completely cooled quinoa to prevent soggy granola
- Press the mixture firmly on the baking sheet to create those irresistible clusters
- Stir gently midway through baking to ensure even browning without breaking large clusters
- Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet - this is crucial for achieving maximum crispness
- Experiment with different nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for varied texture and flavor
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness and freshness
- For extra decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled granola
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
