Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries with Quinoa

Homemade Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries with Quinoa: The Perfect Snack

Looking for a crunchy, sweet, and healthy snack that’s easy to make? These Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries with Quinoa are exactly what you need! Made with just 3 ingredients and ready in just minutes, these treats are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. The combination of fresh blueberries, puffed quinoa, and dark chocolate is simply irresistible – plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with protein!

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Covered Blueberries

Quick & Simple: This recipe is super easy and takes just 5 minutes of prep time. All you need to do is melt the chocolate, add the quinoa and blueberries, then chill for a bit. That’s it!
Healthy & Nutritious: These chocolate-covered treats are filled with antioxidants, fiber, and protein. They’re a great alternative to store-bought snacks and perfect for a post-workout bite or as an afternoon snack.
Versatile: You can customize them to your taste! Sprinkle crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even colored sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm for extra flavor and fun!
Great for All Ages: This treat is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen while enjoying a snack that’s both healthy and tasty.

Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Blueberries

Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries for the best results. Make sure they are dry before dipping. If using frozen blueberries, let them thaw first.
Quinoa: You can use any variety of quinoa. For the best texture, I recommend organic quinoa.
Dark Chocolate: I love using dark chocolate chips for their rich flavor, but you can swap it for milk chocolate, white chocolate, or any flavored chocolate of your choice.
Sea Salt: Just a pinch of sea salt flakes to balance the sweetness and give it a nice touch of flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Blueberries with Quinoa – Step-By-Step

1. Prepare the Blueberries

Rinse and dry the blueberries thoroughly, discarding any that are burst or imperfect.

2. Pop the Quinoa

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the quinoa on medium heat. Cover the pan and shake it occasionally. The quinoa will pop like popcorn. Once it’s done, set it aside to cool on a plate.

3. Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate by placing it over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir until it’s fully melted, then set it aside to cool slightly. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst.

4. Mix the Ingredients

Stir the popped quinoa into the melted chocolate, then gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

5. Form the Clusters

Use a spoon to scoop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave a little space between the clusters so they don’t stick together.

6. Chill & Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate has hardened.

7. Serve

Once set, sprinkle the sea salt flakes on top and serve. You can enjoy these immediately, or store them for later!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Chocolate Covered Blueberries Healthy?

Yes, they are! Homemade dark chocolate covered blueberries are a healthy treat when enjoyed in moderation. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, while the dark chocolate provides a dose of iron and magnesium. Plus, quinoa is a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.

What is Popped Quinoa?

Popped quinoa is quinoa that’s been heated in a pan until it bursts and becomes light, crispy, and airy. It gives a wonderful crunchy texture to these chocolate clusters.

Is Quinoa Gluten-Free?

Yes! Quinoa is a seed, not a grain, so it’s naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I Use Frozen or Dried Blueberries?

It’s best to use fresh blueberries because frozen ones tend to be too soft and juicy, which can cause them to burst when mixed with warm chocolate. Dried blueberries can be used, but fresh blueberries provide a better flavor and texture.

Variations & Substitutions

Chocolate Options: Feel free to use milk, white, or even flavored chocolate (like chocolate mint or chocolate orange). You can also try adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nuts & Seeds: Swap the quinoa for chopped nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans for added crunch. Or add some sunflower, pumpkin, or chia seeds for extra texture.
Sweetener: If you want a slightly sweeter taste, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the chocolate-covered blueberries just before chilling.

Tips & Tricks

Dry the Blueberries Well: Be sure to dry the blueberries thoroughly before dipping them in chocolate to avoid any excess moisture.
Cold Butter: If you’re using chocolate with butter, make sure the butter is cold when mixing it into the melted chocolate to avoid a greasy consistency.
Store in the Fridge: Store your chocolate clusters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

How to Serve

These chocolate-covered blueberry clusters are perfect as a snack, dessert, or party treat! Serve them with pita chips, fruit, or just as they are. They’re also an excellent topping for smoothies or bowl meals.
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a bit of shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or even colored sprinkles on top for an extra touch.

How to Reheat

Since these chocolate-covered blueberry clusters are best served chilled, there’s no need to reheat them. Simply store them in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Covered Blueberries with Quinoa are an easy and delicious snack that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a healthy, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, an after-school snack, or a fun party treat, these clusters are guaranteed to impress!