
Got a chocolate craving? These Quinoa Chocolate Crisps are the answer. They're crunchy, packed with deep chocolate flavor, and honestly couldn't be easier. Just toss a few simple ingredients together, chill, and you're set. I love how I don't have to spend ages in the kitchen or dirty a stack of dishes for these!
I whipped these up for a movie night with my family, and everyone kept coming back for more. Now, I always have a stash in the freezer ready for friends dropping by unannounced.
Tasty Ingredients
- Puffed quinoa: This brings a light, crispy texture and gentle nuttiness. You want the real deal—not hard, raw grains but airy ones with no sweeteners or weird flavors.
- Flaky salt: Optional but trust me, a little sprinkle of sea salt takes the chocolate flavor up a notch. Grab something nice like Maldon if you can.
- Peanut butter: Either smooth or chunky is good. This adds that creamy, rich vibe and helps the bites stick together. Swap with sunflower butter if nuts aren't for you.
- Dark chocolate: Pick something that's at least seventy percent cacao for bold taste. If that's too dark, you can use one with less cacao for extra sweetness.
Irresistible Step-by-Step Guide
- Get Your Pan Ready:
- Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment or hit your mini muffin tin with a little oil. That way, nothing gets stuck and pulling them out is a breeze.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter:
- Toss your chocolate and peanut butter in a heat-proof bowl. Gently melt them in the microwave using short bursts and stir in between so nothing burns. Or, set it over simmering water on the stove and keep stirring until smooth and shiny. Give the mix a quick rest after melting.
- Add the Quinoa:
- Pour the puffed quinoa into your chocolatey base. Mix it well until all those grains get an even chocolate coat.
- Shape the Crisps:
- Use a cookie scoop or a small spoon to drop the mixture on your pan. Gently press them down. If you’re using a muffin tin, just fill each cup up to the top so they stay together.
- Let Them Chill:
- For extra flavor, sprinkle on some flaky salt if you want. Slide the tray into the freezer for thirty minutes or leave it in the fridge for about an hour until they're nice and solid.
- Take Out and Store:
- Run a knife around the edges to pop the crisps out. If you made a lot, keep them cold and repeat until they're all out.

Puffed quinoa is my go-to for that satisfying airy crunch and deep, subtle flavor. Making these always reminds me of whipping up crispy snacks with my kids, only now they're a little more grown up. The laughs and good times we've shared over fresh batches are honestly some of my favorite memories.
Best Ways to Store
Keep your Quinoa Chocolate Crisps in an airtight container and stash them in the fridge—they’ll last for about two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to two months. Use parchment between the layers to stop them from sticking. I always keep a frozen backup for last-minute chocolate emergencies.
Easy Swaps
No puffed quinoa? Go for puffed rice or millet instead. Nut allergies? Use sunflower butter or tahini. Want these vegan? Grab dairy-free chocolate chips and you’re set. You can also throw in extras like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for a fun twist.

How to Serve
Hand these out after school, at a party, or just when you want something sweet. They also make cute gifts if you wrap them up in little bags with a bow. Or, break them into chunky pieces for a rustic chocolate bark that looks great on a festive dessert tray.
Fun Quinoa Crisps Fact
Puffed quinoa got its start in the Andes, where quinoa’s been a staple food for ages. Popping gives these grains a totally new flavor and texture. Now, you’ll spot puffed quinoa in treats and savory snacks all over the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Go for dark chocolate with 70% or higher cacao for rich, deep taste and nice crunch. Want it sweeter? Milk chocolate does the trick too.
- → Can I substitute the puffed quinoa?
You can swap in puffed rice or other similar grains. Quinoa gives an extra crunch and is a bit healthier though.
- → How should I store the crisps?
Stack these with parchment paper in a tight-sealed container. Keep chilled in the fridge or freezer so they stay crisp.
- → Are there flavor variations?
For sure! Mix it up with coconut, nuts, pretzel bits, or seeds. Sweeten more with honey or swap the chocolate style.
- → Is peanut butter necessary?
Totally up to you—peanut butter just makes it smoother and richer. Try almond or sunflower seed butter instead, or just skip it.
- → Why add flaky salt on top?
The salt takes down the sweetness and brightens up that chocolatey taste, making every bite pop.