Cherry Almond Quinoa Bars

Step 1

Be sure to rinse the quinoa before toasting or these could end up bitter tasting.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 350°.

Step 3

Coat 8×8” baking pan with nonstick vegetable oil spray; line with parchment, leaving overhang on all sides.

Step 4

Toast almonds, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds on a rimmed baking sheet, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 10–12 minutes. Let cool.

Step 5

Reduce oven temperature to 200°.

Step 6

Process cherries, brown rice syrup, salt, and 2 Tbsp. water in a food processor until smooth.

Step 7

Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in toasted almond mixture. Press firmly into prepared pan and bake until no longer sticky, 20–25 minutes.

Step 8

Let cool, then cut into bars.