These quinoa bars are the perfect breakfast option or snack for your toddler. These bars are packed with tons of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
These are an easy treat to whip up when you need something to have on hand for the busy week ahead!
They are soft and a perfect texture for babies and toddlers. They are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and berries. They are not only a hit with little ones but for older ones too! My 13 year old asked if she could have some for breakfast because she just loved them!
Health Benefits of Quinoa Bars:
Quinoa:
Quinoa is high in fiber as well as having antioxidant properties. It is also high in manganese which is essential for development.
Quinoa is a great source of protein. 1 cup cooked quinoa provides 8 grams of protein. Unlike other plant protein, quinoa is a complete protein making it a super food to introduce to your toddler.
In addition to the quinoa, the other ingredients in these bars add even more nutrition for little ones. Fiber and antioxidant packed all around. Not to mention these have zero processed sugars in them but yet they are still packed with a sweet flavor.
Oats:
There are many benefits for oats for babies. They are a good source of fiber, which can help keep baby’s digestive system healthy.
Oats are also a good source of protein and minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. This makes them a great choice for baby’s first solid food.
Almond Butter:
Adding almost butter to this recipe will add some good fats, fiber and vitamins to help your baby grow. Almond butter is known to be especially beneficial for brain development.
Oat Milk:
Oat milk is a great alternative to cows milk for toddlers. It is high in fiber and protein, and low in sugar. Oat milk is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium.
You can definitely substitute oat milk with cow’s milk or breastmilk in the recipe. I discuss various possible substitutions in this recipe below.
Chia Seeds:
Chia seeds are an excellent source of nutrients for babies. They are high in fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Chia seeds also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the gut.
I get why it can be scary to introduce Chia for babies and toddlers but it is a great add on for any recipes. Remember that Chia seeds are high in fiber so make sure to make your kid drink a lot of water when they consume Chia.
Also, it is a good idea to start with lower quantity ( 1/4 teaspoon) if you are newly introducing them to you kid. This helps their body get accustomed to the new food.
Tips for making these quinoa bars
- Cook your quinoa at least a few hours before you will be using it for the bars. Ideally you would make the quinoa a day before, but if you don’t have time to do that, then 2-3 hours would be great to allow time to cool.
- Use fresh fruits for full flavor. You can also use frozen and thaw the fruits out but, fresh gives the best flavor.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish or pan so the bars don’t stick.
- Allow to cool for at least 30-60 minutes before serving
How to make Toddler Quinoa bars:
Other than needing to cook the quinoa ahead of time, this really is one of the most simple recipes to put together.
I’m all about easy and simple recipes. For this recipe, you only need one bowl to mix everything.
Cook your quinoa 2-3 hours before using or a full day before is even better.
Take all your ingredients, starting with your dry ingredients, and add everything to one large mixing bowl.
Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula.
Then you simply pour onto your pan (lined with parchment) and spread evenly. Using a spatula to do this makes it so simple.
Then you will bake it for 25-30 minutes. You want to see a nice golden color and the berries will also begin to bleed a little as they cook.
Allow to cool for 30-60 minutes before serving.
Suggested serving: cut into 16 pieces to serve and make storing easier
How to store quinoa bars:
Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Substitutions
Almond buttercream – you can absolutely swap out almond butter for another nut butter of choice. Or also you can use a coconut butter as well.
Oat milk: easily swap out the oat milk for any other milk of choice.
Honey: the best and easiest swap out for honey is maple syrup. They are both great ways to add that sweet taste with no processed sugars. This recipe is also baby friendly. Please keep in mind not to use honey when making this for babies under 1 year old.
Blueberries/Strawberries: any other fruits would be a great swap for these berries.
Toddler Quinoa Breakfast Bar Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups cooked and cooled quinoa
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup oat milk
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh diced strawberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Process
- Cook your quinoa according to directions on package
- Allow to cool for a few hours before using
- Preheat your oven to 350°
- Line a small baking pan with parchment paper
- Then add all your ingredients to a large bowl and mix together with a wooden spoon or spatula
- Pour your mixture onto your parchment paper lined pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden.
- Allow to cool for about 30-60 minutes before cutting and serving.
