Name: Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates (soaked in warm water for 10 mins and drained if hard); 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled); 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (such as almonds or walnuts); 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); Pinch of salt

Why Make This Recipe

Starting your day with a healthy breakfast can set a positive tone for the hours to come. These Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars are a perfect choice for busy mornings. Not only are they nutritious, but they’re also easy to make, packed with energy, and deliciously satisfying. Plus, you can prepare them in advance, allowing you to grab a bar as you head out the door.

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How to Make Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup pitted dates (soaked in warm water for 10 mins and drained if hard)
1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (such as almonds or walnuts)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of salt

Directions:

If dates are hard, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
In a food processor, combine the soaked and drained dates, rolled oats, nuts or seeds, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
Process until the mixture is finely chopped and starts to clump together into a sticky dough.
Add the cooled cooked quinoa to the food processor. Pulse a few times until just combined; you want some texture from the quinoa.
The mixture should be sticky enough to press into a pan. If it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water or plant-based milk at a time and pulse until it reaches the right consistency.
Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until firm.
Lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into bars or squares.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to Serve Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars

These breakfast bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. They make a perfect snack at any time of the day as well. Just grab a bar and enjoy the goodness!

How to Store Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Simple Healthy Spiced Date & Quinoa Breakfast Bars

If you like a sweeter bar, you can add a little bit of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
Feel free to experiment with different spices, like ginger or cardamom, for a unique flavor twist.
You can use any nuts or seeds you prefer or have on hand.

Variations (if any)

You can add dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins for extra flavor and nutrition. Chocolate chips can also be a delicious addition for a touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use different types of seeds or nuts?
Yes! You can use any nuts or seeds you like. Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds all work well.

What if I can’t find cooked quinoa?
You can easily cook quinoa ahead of time. Just rinse 1/3 cup of quinoa with water, then cook it in 1 cup of water for about 15 minutes or until it’s fluffy.

How do I make these bars vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. Just ensure any added sweeteners, like maple syrup, are also vegan-friendly.