These PB Chocolate Puffed Quinoa Cups are made with simple ingredients for a delicious dessert that is vegan and gluten-free. Make them ahead of time for the perfect midday snack or after-dinner dessert!
The Newest Way to Combine Peanut Butter and Chocolate
I think I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. Name a better combination than chocolate and peanut butter. Go ahead, take your time, I’ll wait, because, seriously, it’s not possible. I mean, one look at my blog will tell you that! Don’t get me wrong, with recipes like Churro Waffles with “Mexican Hot Chocolate” Sauce, Double Chocolate Brownie Cups, and a Flourless Chocolate Mug Cake, I love a good chocolate recipe. However, there’s just something so irresistible about the pb combo.
So, just when you thought I had covered all the possible ways to use it, here I am, back with another peanut butter and chocolate recipe in the form of chocolate cups. I know, I know. I’m too kind, but you can thank me later! Just trust me when I say you need these PB Chocolate Puffed Quinoa Cups in your life. Not only are they delicious, they’re also vegan and gluten-free to fit all your dietary needs.
Even better, they’re super simple to make and can be prepped ahead of time for those moments when you absolutely need something sweet like 10 minutes ago. I know I’m not the only one.
So, let’s jump in the kitchen and satisfy those sweet tooths!
What is Puffed Quinoa?
Not always a super common ingredient, I’m a firm believer that puffed quinoa should be a staple in everyone’s pantry. Puffed quinoa can often be found in the cereal aisle. Or, it’s a fairly easy process to make your own. As the name suggests, is a puffed-up version of regular quinoa. As a result, it has an airy or crispy texture similar popcorn (but smaller!). It adds a bit of fiber and even some protein into your day! Puffed quinoa can be eaten in a wide variety of ways inducing as cereal, mixed in granola, to top yogurt, and more.
Ingredients and alternatives for Chocolate Cups with Peanut Butter and Puffed Quinoa
If you’re new around here, you should know that I’m a huge fan of simple recipes. So, it should come as no surprise that these chocolate cups are made with as few ingredients as possible to make all our lives easier! I’m even giving you possible alternatives in case you don’t have an item on hand. However, to get started, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients.
Puffed Quinoa – Due to their unique texture, there really is no substitute for puffed quinoa. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly version, be sure to take a look at how to make it on your own in the directions below.
Chocolate Chips – For these chocolate cups, I used semi-sweet chocolate chips, but white chocolate, butterscotch, or even cinnamon chips would work in their place!
Peanut Butter – If you can’t eat peanut butter, any nut or seed butter you have on hand will taste great with these chocolate cups.
Coconut Oil – Due to its ability to turn into a solid, coconut oil is crucial to forming these chocolate cups. Unfortunately, no other oil will work in its place.
Maple Syrup – Not only is maple syrup a delicious sweetener, it also adds a layer of stickiness that helps form these chocolate cups.
Vanilla Extract – I know it might seem unnecessary, but vanilla extract is crucial to tying all of the ingredients and flavor components together!
Ingredient Add-ins for Even More Flavor
While the original ingredients might not be super flexible, the options for add-ins are virtually endless! Given the simplicity of these chocolate cups, there’s not much that doesn’t pair well with this recipe. Personally, I’m on a mission to try all the add-ins. However, if you want to get started a bit smaller. Try adding one of the extra ingredients below.
Chopped Nuts – For added crunch and healthy fats, try tossing a handful of chopped nuts into these chocolate cups.
Dried Fruit – Using dried fruit is a great way to incorporate more texture into this recipe. Raisins, cherries, and even bananas all work great.
Sprinkles – For pretty chocolate cups, incorporate a dash of sprinkles in the “batter,” or sprinkle them on the cups before they dry.
Candy Pieces – Add a fun surprise to each bite by chopping up your favorite candy bars into tiny pieces, and adding them to the chocolate cups.
Tools You’ll Need to Make the Quinoa Chocolate Cups
- Silicone Liners
- Small Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Small Saucepan (if making your own quinoa)
Serving Suggestions
Of course, these cups are delicious all on their own. However, they’re also great with fun toppings! Once formed, try adding icing or whipped cream on top, along with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or fruit pieces. Or, top your quinoa chocolate cups with a scoop of ice cream, and your favorite sauce such as chocolate or caramel!
How to Make Your Own Puffed Quinoa
As promised, I’m providing a budget-friendly puffed quinoa option with a homemade version! The process might seem intimidating, but it’s a breeze, I promise!
To start, add ¼ cup of quinoa to a dry saucepan, and place it over medium-low heat. Let it sit on the heat until the quinoa starts to turn a golden-brown color, and be sure to stir often to prevent the quinoa from burning! After about 5-10 minutes your quinoa should be fully fluffed and beautiful!
How to Store Homemade Chocolate Cups
Once fully formed and set, these PB Chocolate Puffed Quinoa Cups keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Or, place wax paper between each cup, and store them in the freezer for 2-3 months. Then, when you’re ready to eat them, transfer them to the fridge to thaw.
More PB and Chocolate Recipes
- Double Chocolate PB Cereal Bars
- PB Chocolate Cake Pops
- Chocolate PB Caramel Collagen Cookies
- Single Serve Chocolate PB Protein Cookie
I would love to know your favorite peanut butter and chocolate combinations! Let me know in the comments below!
PB Chocolate Puffed Quinoa Cups
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup puffed quinoa *see notes how to make it yourself
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 1/2 tbsps coconut oil divided
- 1 tsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Start by readying your molds – place 6 silicone liners on a plate.
- In a small bowl, melt your peanut butter and 1 tbsp of coconut oil together for about 45 seconds. Add in the vanilla and maple syrup and stir.
- Grabbing your prepared silicone liners, spoon a small amount of the melted peanut butter mixture into each silicone liner. You’ll want to use just enough to cover the bottom – about a teaspoon. Place the now filled liners that are on your plate in your freezer to set – about 10 minutes. Reserve the rest of the peanut butter mixture for later.
- *If making your own puffed quinoa, now would be the time!
- Moving onto the puffed quinoa filling, add the remaining coconut oil (1/2 tsp) and chocolate chips into an additional small bowl and microwave until melted.
- Add in the puffed quinoa and stir.
- Once the bottom layer of the cups have set, evenly distribute the quinoa mixture into all 6 cups. Place back in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set before finishing off the cups with the remaining peanut butter mixture.
- Once again, place it in the freezer until the completed cups have set entirely- about 30 minutes.
- When set, remove the cups from their liners and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
Recipe loosely adapted from 6-Ingredient No-Bake Quinoa Peanut Butter Cups
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