Alright, everyone. The Philly judges have spoken, and this Baking Beauty is not going to the finals in Toronto. 
I do feel that they made an error, because I not only make AMAZING food using the cream cheese, but I also do it gluten-free. Which, in my books, is rockin’ it! But, so it goes. One door has been closed, now I need to figure out which window is open. 
Thank you guys all so much for the encouragement along the way, and the emails and comments on Facebook, I really appreciate it. I’ve still got more dessert recipes to post though, so here it goes.
Creamy Quinoa Apple Crunch is a light, healthy dessert that can be ready to serve in about 25 minutes. The best part is, this dish could actually be eaten for breakfast without feeling guilty!
Creamy Quinoa Apple Crunch
Author: Jeanine Friesen
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 4
This is a light, healthy dessert that can be ready to serve in about 25 minutes. The best part is, this dish could actually be eaten for breakfast without feeling guilty!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed & drained if not pre-rinsed)
- 2 cup apple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch of nutmeg
- 1 small apple, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 ounces spreadable cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- In a medium size saucepan, combine the quinoa, apple juice, cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Over a medium-high heat, bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to low, and place the lid on. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
- When the quinoa has cooked for about 10 minutes, add the chopped apple to the pot, and give it a quick stir. Put the lid on until the quinoa is finished cooking.
- Transfer quinoa mixture to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the cream cheese, 3 Tbsp. of the pecans, lemon zest and maple syrup.
- Divide quinoa mixture between 4 serving bowls, and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chopped pecans, and caramel sauce. Serve hot.
- Leftovers can be eaten cold the next morning for breakfast as well.
Healthy Philly cream cheese dessert? Would have neever thought of it. Looks amazing! And I could totally have this for breakfast too. (Coh, and cute video.)
Whew thank God it's over, all those lovely foods you made with a forbidden food to this dairy allergic family. Now we can go back to foods I can easily convert to dairy free, please!
Looks wonderful! I am always looking for something for breakfast, I'll have to eliminate the nuts, but that is ok. Thanks for the great idea.