I absolutely love this Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe because it combines wholesome ingredients with cozy fall flavors all in one easy, portable treat. Whether you’re rushing out the door or craving a healthy snack to cozy up with your morning coffee, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of pumpkin spice warmth and satisfying quinoa texture.
When I first tried making these, I was amazed at how the quinoa gave such a lovely bite and kept me full for hours. You’ll find that these cookies not only taste great but also pack a nutritional punch, making your breakfast routine both delicious and nourishing. Trust me, once you master this Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: Quinoa brings protein and fiber, making these cookies a balanced breakfast option.
- Delicious Fall Flavors: The pumpkin spice mix gives a cozy, seasonal twist that everyone loves.
- Versatile and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps let you whip them up on busy mornings.
- Great for Meal Prep: These cookies store well, so you can make a batch ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients combine nutrient-packed quinoa with the sweetness of pumpkin and just enough spice to make these cookies irresistible. You’ll want to use fresh pumpkin puree and a quality pumpkin spice mix for the best flavor.
- Quinoa: Rinse well to remove any bitterness before cooking for a clean, fluffy texture.
- Water: For cooking the quinoa perfectly tender but not mushy.
- All-purpose flour: Helps bind the cookies and gives them structure.
- Coconut sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- Ground flax seeds: Boosts fiber and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Pureed pumpkin: Provides moisture, natural sweetness, and that fall vibe we love.
- Pumpkin Spice Mix: The magic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that defines these cookies.
- Sea salt: Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Oil (such as coconut or vegetable): Keeps the cookies tender and moist.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the warmth of the spices and adds depth.
- Egg white: Binds everything together while keeping the cookies light.
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetener that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
- Fat free whipped topping (optional): A lovely finishing touch when serving that feels indulgent without extra heaviness.
Variations
I love experimenting with this Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to swap ingredients or add extras to make it truly your own.
- Add-ins: I sometimes toss in chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and a burst of flavor.
- Sweetener swap: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup or try honey instead, which gives a slightly different but delicious note.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible to everyone.
- Dairy-free version: Skip the whipped topping or top with coconut whipped cream for a plant-based treat.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Quinoa Properly
Start by rinsing the quinoa with a fine mesh strainer to get rid of any residual bitterness—that step makes a world of difference in flavor. Bring water and quinoa to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes. Don’t rush this; you want the quinoa tender but still fluffy. Once done, remove the lid and let it cool for a couple of minutes while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
While the quinoa is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Combine your flour, coconut sugar, ground flax seeds, pumpkin spice mix, and salt in a large bowl. Next, measure out 1½ cups of your cooked quinoa and stir it into the dry mixture so each grain is lightly coated. This coating helps keep the cookies from getting too dense.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your pumpkin puree, oil, vanilla extract, egg white, and maple syrup until smooth. Pour this wet mix into the dry quinoa mixture and stir gently until everything just comes together—avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 4: Shape and Bake Your Cookies
Scoop the cookie batter by tablespoons onto your baking sheet. They won’t spread much, so you can place them fairly close. I like to flatten mine gently between my palms for an even shape and better bake. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden and set.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
After removing from the oven, let the cookies cool on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely—this step is key. Because the quinoa is cooked, the cookies firm up nicely as they cool, developing that wonderful chewy texture. When you’re ready to serve, a dollop of whipped topping adds a touch of creamy indulgence that balances the spice perfectly.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe
- Rinse Quinoa Thoroughly: This small step removes bitterness and results in a cleaner flavor that lets the pumpkin spice shine.
- Don’t Skip Cooling: Let your cookies cool completely before storing, so they firm up and hold their shape better.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Spice Mix: Pre-made blends lose potency, so making your own or buying fresh enhances flavor.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir gently to keep your cookies tender instead of tough — trust me, it makes a huge difference!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top mine with just a teaspoon of fat-free whipped topping—it adds just the right creamy balance to the warmth of the spices. If I’m feeling indulgent, a light drizzle of maple syrup on top is a lovely touch that takes these cookies over the edge.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea or a creamy latte for a cozy morning combo. I’ve also enjoyed them alongside simple fruit like apple slices or a small bowl of Greek yogurt to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For fall brunches, I once arranged these cookies on a platter with fresh cinnamon sticks and a few mini pumpkins for a festive touch. Stacking them with a small bowl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top makes for a stunning breakfast display that guests love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge, and they stay moist yet firm for up to two weeks. The longer they chill, the better their texture becomes—as the flavors continue to meld. Just be sure to give them a few minutes out of the fridge before eating.
Freezing
I also freeze these cookies in single layers inside zip-top bags or airtight containers. When thawed overnight in the fridge, they warm up beautifully with no loss of texture or flavor, making them ideal for meal prep or quick grab-and-go breakfasts.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop a cookie or two in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until just heated through. This revives the pumpkin spice aroma and gives you that fresh-baked feel every time.
FAQs
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Can I make these Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, swap the egg white with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based oil and maple syrup. Skip the whipped topping or opt for a coconut-based version.
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Is it necessary to cook the quinoa first?
Absolutely. Cooking the quinoa softens it and helps the cookies hold together while maintaining a pleasant texture. Using raw quinoa wouldn’t work well as it’s too crunchy and tough to bake properly.
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Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works great here and is a time-saver. Just make sure you’re using plain pumpkin without added spices or sugars to control the flavor in your cookies.
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How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, the cookies will stay fresh for up to two weeks. They tend to firm up and their flavors deepen the longer they sit, making them even more delicious over time.
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Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that suits baking, like one made from rice flour or oat flour. This keeps the cookies safe for gluten-free diets without compromising texture.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe has become a cherished part of my morning routine, especially in fall when those cozy spices feel just right. I love sharing these with friends and family because they’re not only delicious but offer a wholesome start to the day. If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a treat without the guilt, you’ll really enjoy making and eating these—give them a try and see how pumpkin spice and quinoa make such a perfect pairing!
PrintPumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and nutritious Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies combine the earthy flavors of quinoa with warm pumpkin spice and pureed pumpkin for a wholesome fall treat. Perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a post-workout bite, these cookies are naturally sweetened and boast a pleasant texture that’s both soft and slightly firm after cooling.
Ingredients
Quinoa Preparation
- 1 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 cup quinoa (raw)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or sub with granulated sugar)
- 1/4 cup ground flax seeds
- 1 tbsp Pumpkin Spice Mix
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pureed pumpkin
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg white (equivalent to 2 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup fat free whipped topping
Instructions
- Rinse Quinoa: Add quinoa to a fine mesh strainer and rinse well under cold water to remove any bitterness and impurities.
- Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine water and rinsed quinoa. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat, uncover, and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, ground flax seeds, pumpkin spice mix, and sea salt. Add 1½ cups of the cooked quinoa to the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly, ensuring all quinoa grains are coated.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix together pureed pumpkin, oil, vanilla extract, egg white, and maple syrup until well combined.
- Form Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry quinoa mixture and stir until just combined to create the cookie dough.
- Scoop Cookies: Using one tablespoon at a time, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a small space between each cookie. Lightly flatten each cookie slightly between your palms as these cookies will not spread much during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cookies are cooked through and golden on top.
- Cool Cookies: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely for a couple of hours. This longer cooling time allows the cookies to firm up due to the cooked quinoa.
- Serve: When ready to serve, optionally top each cookie with a teaspoon of fat free whipped topping. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- These Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Breakfast Cookies are a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, ideal for a nutritious start to your day or a wholesome snack.
- Using cooked quinoa ensures a tender texture and helps the cookies hold together nicely.
- Feel free to substitute coconut sugar with granulated sugar if preferred.
- The longer the cookies cool, the firmer and more set they become, so patience is key for best texture.
- Optional whipped topping adds a light and creamy contrast, but the cookies are delicious on their own.
- Store cookies in the refrigerator for freshness, especially if using whipped topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cookies
- Calories: 144 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg