If you're looking for a healthier, less sweet treat, you need to try this Coconut Almond Toasted Quinoa Bark. This recipe combines the wholesome crunch of quinoa, shredded coconut, and chopped almonds with the nutrient boost of chia seeds and tops it with chocolate. The result is a crisp, nutty bark with just enough chocolate to satisfy your cravings without being overly sweet—a perfect balance of texture and flavor that's both indulgent and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1/4 C maple syrup
• 1 C uncooked quinoa, rinsed and dried
• 1/2 C shredded coconut
• 1/2 coarsely chopped almonds
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/2 C dark chocolate chips
• Additional chopped almond and shredded coconut for topping

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. Combine coconut oil and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat and stir until the coconut oil is melted and the mixture is well combine. Remove from heat.
3. Combine uncooked quinoa, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, chia seeds and cocoa powder in a medium bowl and stir to mix. 
4. Pour the coconut oil and maple syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Spread mixture in a thin layer on the prepared baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Bake 15 - 20 minutes, until quinoa starts to brown.
7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Allow the chocolate chips to melt and then use a spatula to spread the chocolate chips over the quinoa bark. Sprinkle additional chopped almonds and shredded coconut over the melted chocolate if desired.
8. Place the quinoa bark in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens. Remove from the refrigerator and break into smaller pieces. 
9. Enjoy!