High Protein Baked Quinoa Pudding

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Oh, friends, let me tell you about the magic of High Protein Baked Quinoa Pudding! One chilly autumn evening, I was hunting for a comforting dessert that wouldn’t weigh me down but would still satisfy that sweet tooth. As I wandered through my pantry, I stumbled upon some quinoa I’d been meaning to experiment with – and voila! The idea struck me like a warm hug on a crisp day. The rich aroma of cinnamon danced through my cozy kitchen as the pudding baked, and soon enough, it was love at first bite. The nutty flavor of quinoa paired with the sweetness of maple syrup enveloped me in a delicious embrace, and I’ve been whipping it up ever since. I know you’re going to fall head over heels for it too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Peasy: Whisk it together, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic!
• Nutritious & Delicious: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a guilt-free dessert or breakfast option.
• Customizable: Toss in your favorite dried fruit and nuts for a personal touch.
• Makes Your Kitchen Smell Incredible: Cinnamon and maple syrup wafting through the air? Yes, please!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: A quick, big batch means leftovers are sorted for the week.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa: A fantastic source of protein, quinoa is your new best friend. Be sure to rinse it well to remove any bitterness!
• 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice): Whatever milk you have on hand works. I love almond milk for its creaminess!
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: Pure and natural sweetness. Feel free to adjust it to your liking if you prefer it a little less sweet.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a lovely fragrance and depth to the whole dish. Go for pure extract if you can!
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: The warm, cozy spice that brings comfort to every bite. Feel free to sprinkle a bit extra for fun!
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup raisins (or your choice of dried fruit): Chewy and sweet, these add a delightful texture. Try cranberries or apricots for a twist!
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Nuts add a nice crunch and additional protein. Go with walnuts, almonds, or even pecans.
• Fresh fruit for topping (optional): Berries, bananas, or even a dollop of yogurt make a gorgeous finish!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Feel that warmth already? Just wait until this pudding starts baking!

Step 2: Rinse the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain. This step is super important to buck off any bit of bitterness.

Step 3: Mix It Up

In a bowl, mix the quinoa, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. The colors will swirl together beautifully; it’s a sight that warms the heart.

Step 4: Stir in Fruits and Nuts

Stir in the raisins and nuts, if using. The raisins will plump up while baking, creating little pockets of sweetness throughout!

Step 5: Pour It In

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, and give it a gentle shake to even it out. It’s all about that beautiful, even bake!

Step 6: Bake Away

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set and lightly browned on top. You’ll know it’s done because your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 7: Cool Down

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Just long enough for you to set the table and grab your favorite dishes!

Step 8: Serve It Up

Serve warm or cold, topped with fresh fruit if desired. The contrast of the warm pudding and cool fruit is pure bliss!

Pro Tips for Success

• Rinse your quinoa well to ensure the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the cooling step! It helps the pudding set just right.
• Experiment with spices! Nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice can create a seasonal twist.
• Adjust your sweetener to match your taste buds—feel free to substitute honey or agave!

Flavor Variations

• Seasonal Swaps: Try diced apples with a sprinkle of nutmeg in the fall or berries with a touch of lemon zest in the summer!
• Add Cocoa Powder: For a chocolatey twist, mix in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Nut Butters: Fold in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter for an extra nutty richness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pudding with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for some crunch, or enjoy it plain with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of the day!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily prep this pudding ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just bake it, let it cool, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. On those busy mornings, simply grab a scoop!

Leftovers

Got leftovers? How about topping your pudding with a layer of yogurt and granola for a parfait? Or, mix it into your morning smoothie for a protein boost.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this pudding! Just portion it out into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If you’re in a rush, microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! Brown rice or oats could work; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just use your favorite plant-based milk.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all good here!

Is it okay to skip the sugar?
Sure! Feel free to leave it out or substitute with a sugar alternative that suits your taste.

Final Thoughts

Friends, I hope this High Protein Baked Quinoa Pudding brings joy to your kitchen like it does to mine. It’s a warm embrace in a bowl and a reminder that comfort food can also be nourishing. So gather the ingredients, sprinkle in some love, and enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with cozy vibes and sweet aromas! 🌟

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