Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa

Featured in: Sunrise Starts

This nourishing bowl combines fluffy quinoa simmered with milk, pure maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon for a subtly sweet base. Toasted pecans add crunch and nuttiness, while optional fresh berries and shredded coconut bring freshness and texture. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, it’s a quick, delicious option to energize your morning with natural flavors and satisfying warmth.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:49:00 GMT
Delicious Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa topped with fresh berries and toasted nuts.  Save to Pinterest
Delicious Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa topped with fresh berries and toasted nuts. | krispyrecipes.com

A warm, nourishing breakfast bowl featuring fluffy quinoa sweetened with maple syrup, toasted pecans, and a hint of cinnamon for a wholesome start to your day.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite on chilly mornings when we crave something both cozy and energizing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa: rinsed
  • 2 cups milk: dairy or plant-based
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: natural sweetener
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: warm spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: adds depth
  • Pinch of salt: balances flavors
  • 1/2 cup pecans: roughly chopped, toasted
  • 1/2 cup fresh berries: optional topping
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut: optional topping

Instructions

Step 1:
In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well.
Step 2:
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until quinoa is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3:
While the quinoa cooks, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Set aside.
Step 4:
Once quinoa is cooked, remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Step 5:
Divide quinoa among bowls. Top each serving with toasted pecans, fresh berries, and shredded coconut if desired. Drizzle with additional maple syrup to taste.
Warm quinoa breakfast bowl drizzled with rich maple syrup and cinnamon goodness.  Save to Pinterest
Warm quinoa breakfast bowl drizzled with rich maple syrup and cinnamon goodness. | krispyrecipes.com

Enjoying this quinoa bowl has brought many cozy mornings where we gather to start the day nourished and happy.

Notes

For creaminess, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt if not vegan. Try different fruits like sliced bananas, apples, or pears for variety.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, skillet for toasting, and a fork for fluffing quinoa.

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts (pecans). Dairy milk option contains milk. Verify all packaged ingredients for allergens.

Nutty Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa, a healthy dish bursting with flavor and texture. Save to Pinterest
Nutty Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa, a healthy dish bursting with flavor and texture. | krispyrecipes.com

This maple pecan breakfast quinoa can be quickly prepared ahead to streamline your morning routine.

Common Recipe Questions

Can I use plant-based milk for cooking quinoa?

Yes, plant-based options like almond, soy, or oat milk work well to create a creamy texture without dairy.

How do I toast pecans evenly?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they release a fragrant aroma.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds provide similar crunch and flavor if you prefer or need an alternative.

What is the best way to fluff cooked quinoa?

Let it rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking, then gently fluff with a fork to separate the grains without mashing.

Are there recommended fruit toppings for this bowl?

Fresh berries are ideal for brightness, but sliced bananas, apples, or pears also complement the flavors nicely.

Maple Pecan Breakfast Quinoa

A warm quinoa bowl with maple syrup, toasted pecans, and cinnamon offers sweet, nutty morning fuel.

Prep Duration
5 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Created by Mia Harper

Recipe Type Sunrise Starts

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Total Portions 4 Serving Size

Dietary Considerations Veggie-Friendly, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Grains

01 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)

Sweeteners & Flavor

01 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
02 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
03 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
04 Pinch of salt

Toppings

01 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
02 1/2 cup fresh berries (optional)
03 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

How to Make It

Step 01

Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well.

Step 02

Cook quinoa: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until quinoa is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 03

Toast pecans: While the quinoa cooks, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 04

Let quinoa rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.

Step 05

Serve: Divide the quinoa among bowls. Top each serving with toasted pecans, fresh berries, and shredded coconut if desired. Drizzle with additional maple syrup to taste.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet (for toasting pecans)
  • Fork

Possible Allergens

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and consult an expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains tree nuts (pecans). Contains milk if dairy milk is used. Verify all packaged ingredients for allergens.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This data is for informational purposes and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 310
  • Total Fat: 13 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45 grams
  • Protein Content: 7 grams