Chocolate-Banana Quinoa Layered Squares

Chocolate-Banana Quinoa Layered Squares

By Susan Arruda

YIELD: 16 squares X 2 inch squares

INGREDIENTS:

Base:
3/4 cup rolled oats
2 tbsp. whole wheat flour
1/4 cup quinoa flour
1/4 packed brown sugar or coconut sugar
1/2 tsp. baking powder
3 tbsp. unadulterated butter, melted 
1 tbsp. milk
1 cup cooked quinoa

Topping:
1/4 cup quinoa flour
2 tbsp. spelt flour
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1 egg
1/2 cup organic cane sugar 
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 small-medium sized bananas
3 tbsp. butter, softened or melted
6 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted

PREPARATION:

Lightly grease an 8 x 8 inch square pan with butter or oil. If you prefer to skip the oil /butter, line the pan with parchment paper allowing the paper to overlap over the sides for easy removal after baking. 

  • Combine the flours, sugar and baking powder in a large bowl.
  • Pour in the melted butter and stir to combine with dry ingredients.
  • Add the quinoa and milk and stir to combine.
  • Place and press the mixture evenly into prepared baking pan.
  • Beat the egg, sugar, vanilla, and bananas using an electric mixer, blender or whisk until well blended.
  • Add the flours and baking powder.
  • Sift and add the cocoa powder.
  • Add the melted/softened butter and blend/whisk to combine.

Bake in a preheated 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick, skewer or dry spaghetti inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow to cool in pan before cutting into bars.

Optional: drizzle some melted chocolate over the top when cooled. 

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also prepare a double batch and freeze some so you always have a healthy treat option on hand for dessert or for a sweet, healthy snack.