Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake is a wholesome and delicious way to kickstart your morning. Packed with protein, fiber, and the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, this baked dish is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for meal prep, it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, this breakfast bake will become a favorite for both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients List

To prepare Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Bake:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For Topping (optional):

• Sliced bananas or apples
• Chopped nuts
• Additional maple syrup or honey

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and almond milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and eggs (or flax eggs).
2. Add the cooked quinoa to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the raisins or dried cranberries and chopped nuts, along with the baking powder.

Step 4: Bake the Mixture

1. Pour the quinoa mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. If desired, top with sliced bananas or apples for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup or honey if desired, and topped with extra nuts or fresh fruit.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional Insights

Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake is rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious breakfast option. Quinoa is a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, while the oats and nuts add healthy fats and additional fiber.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this dish even healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Reduce sweetener: Decrease the amount of maple syrup or honey to lower the sugar content.
• Add more fruits: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries for added vitamins and antioxidants.
• Use egg substitutes: For a vegan option, use flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake pairs wonderfully with:

• Yogurt: Serve alongside Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
• Fresh fruit: Top with seasonal fruits like berries, bananas, or sliced apples.
• Nut butter: Drizzle with almond or peanut butter for extra flavor and healthy fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Under-cooking the quinoa: Make sure the quinoa is fully cooked and fluffy before adding it to the mixture.
2. Not greasing the baking dish: Grease the dish well to prevent sticking.
3. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bake to avoid drying it out; it should be set but moist.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake fresh:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake is a nutritious and delicious way to start your day. With its warm, comforting flavors and versatility, it’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy family breakfast. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of quinoa combined with the sweet notes of cinnamon and maple syrup, making every bite a delightful experience!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.

2. Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes! You can substitute quinoa with cooked oats or other grains like farro or bulgur.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free oats, this recipe is gluten-free.